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Join ESA as the Head of Quality Department to make a significant contribution to space technology and safety advancements.
Overview
Salary
No salary declared 😔
Location
Noordwijk, NL
Expires
Expires at anytime
Organisation summary
The European Space Agency (ESA) is an esteemed organisation contributing to the field of space technology. As part of ESA, you will become a part of the exciting journey of exploring the mysteries of space while ensuring the safety and quality of mission-critical projects.
Role Summary
- Provision of strategic oversight in establishing ESA's Quality policy and Agency-wide quality standards.
- Department's independent assurance function for ESA projects.
- Representing ESA in internal and external Quality Boards.
- Supporting directorates and research activities in the product assurance and safety disciplines.
- Contributing to ESA's Agenda 2040 and supporting the Agency's ongoing transformation.
Role Requirements
- A master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
- Demonstrated leadership, communication and relationship management skills.
- Experience in leading large, multidisciplinary, international teams.
- Experience in managing space activities in a multi-project environment.
Application Process Details
- ESA is an equal opportunity employer encouraging diversity amongst applicants. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply by the closing date of March 31, 2026.
The European Space Agency (ESA) is seeking a Head of the Quality Department, based at ESTEC in Noordwijk, Netherlands. This role is crucial as you will be directly reporting to the Director of Technology, Engineering and Quality and will be a key member of the Directorate's management team.
The role: As the Head of the Quality Department, you will be responsible for establishing and implementing ESA's Quality policy and governing Agency-wide quality standards. You will represent ESA in internal and external Quality Boards and lead the Department's independent assurance function for ESA projects. Additionally, you will support directorates and research activities in the product assurance and safety disciplines. A significant part of your role will be to ensure the well-being, motivation, and professional development of the Department's workforce. You will also contribute to ESA's Agenda 2040 and the Agency's ongoing transformation, which includes supporting increased efficiency, promoting digitalisation, and enabling calculated risk-taking while safeguarding mission success, safety, and quality.
Job requirements: The ideal candidate will have a master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline. You should possess demonstrated leadership, relationship management, and communication skills. Experience in managing space activities in a multi-project environment and leading large, multidisciplinary, and international teams is essential. You should also be adept at technical and programmatic reviews and have the ability to provide strategic direction.
Benefits: ESA offers a dynamic and international working environment, opportunities for mobility and career evolution, and is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness.
Applications: Interested candidates should apply by the closing date of March 31, 2026. ESA values diversity and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics.
