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Exciting opportunity to lead celestial implementation at European Space Agency and contribute to Europe's Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (LEO-PNT) capability
Overview
Salary
No salary declared 😔
Location
Noordwijk, NL
Expires
Expires at anytime
Organisation Summary
The European Space Agency (ESA) is dedicated to space exploration and technological innovation. Joining ESA in this role offers an opportunity to contribute to the Celeste Programme, enhancing the resilience and accuracy of existing GNSS services while introducing innovative features for future applications via LEO satellites.
Role Summary
- Manage the end-to-end implementation of industrial activities related to the Celeste Programme.
- Oversee the development, manufacturing, and testing of space and ground segments.
- Manage industrial contracts, lead the Celeste team and coordinate with stakeholders.
- Handle pre-launch verification, integration and post-launch operations.
Role Requirements
- Background in space systems engineering with a focus on satellite development.
- Master’s degree in a related field and 4 years of related professional experience.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex space projects and strong leadership skills.
- Knowledge of ESA's and industrial development, verification, and procurement processes.
Application Process Details
- Applications open to nationals of ESA Member States.
- Good command of English or French required.
- Applications close on 15 April 2026. For more information, visit the ESA career website.
The European Space Agency (ESA) is excited to announce the opening for a Celeste Implementation Manager, located at ESTEC in Noordwijk, Netherlands. This role is crucial for the Celeste Programme, which is a part of ESA's FutureNAV programme aimed at establishing a European Low Earth Orbit Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (LEO-PNT) capability. This initiative will enhance the resilience and accuracy of existing GNSS services and introduce innovative features for emerging applications through a constellation of LEO satellites.
The Role: As a Celeste Implementation Manager, you will be responsible for the end-to-end implementation of all industrial activities related to the In-Orbit Preparatory (IOP) or In-Orbit Demonstration (IOD) phase of the Celeste programme. This includes managing industrial contracts, leading the Celeste team, and coordinating with various stakeholders including EU bodies and international partners. Your tasks will involve overseeing the development, manufacturing, and testing of space and ground segments, ensuring integration and pre-launch verification, and managing the initial operations post-launch.
Job Requirements: Candidates should have a background in space systems engineering, particularly with satellite development and satellite navigation projects. A master’s degree in engineering or a related field is required, along with at least 4 years of relevant professional experience. Experience in managing complex space projects and strong leadership skills are essential. Knowledge of ESA and industrial development, verification, and procurement processes is also required.
Benefits: ESA offers an inclusive and diverse work environment and is committed to achieving diversity within its workforce. We value our employees and provide support to accommodate individuals with disabilities. The position is for 4 years, extendable to indefinite, providing a stable and progressive career path.
Applications Details: Interested candidates must be nationals of ESA Member States and should have a good command of English or French. Applications are open until 15 April 2026. For more information on the recruitment process and what we offer, please visit the ESA careers website.
