Programme Coordinator

Description

The FutureEO Programme, previously known as EOEP, is the backbone R&D programme in the ESA Earth Observation (EO) domain.

FutureEO typically accompanies the development of an Earth Science mission through its entire lifecycle, from the early technology-supporting activities, up to actual mission selection, implementation and operations and eventually, support to the EO user communities, feedback and lessons learned for future missions.
FutureEO activities are implemented across the four departments in the EO Directorate, also with the support of other ESA directorates, as required.
Finally, FutureEO is the focus of intense cooperation with national space agencies, and international organisations such as the EU and EUMETSAT.

This complex scope and environment requires a coordination function at Directorate level, which is provided by the Strategy, Programme and Coordination Office (EOP-C), at the request of the Director of Earth Observation Programmes.

Reporting to the Head of the Strategy, Programme & Coordination Office (EOP-C), you will provide support to the PB-EO Secretary for the programmatic coordination of FutureEO, and of other EO programmes on an ad hoc basis.

Duties

To provide a service to the entire EO Directorate. Responsibilities will typically but not solely include:
In respect of the FutureEO programme, as a predominant part of the duties:

• Drafting of documents linked to the preparation and implementation of the successive periods of the FutureEO Programme, e.g. programme proposals, implementation plans, work plans, etc.;
• Planning and implementation of FutureEO programmatic reviews and ad hoc seminars;
• Reflection on the evolution of the FutureEO programme;
• Interaction at corporate level (corporate planning and reporting);
• Support to the preparation of Council and Council at ministerial level, notably including the drafting of legal documents, and the development of a narrative to rally strong support from Member States.

You are not vested with any responsibility in terms of the implementation of scientific/industrial contracts in the Programme. You will however be in a constant interaction mode – in a non-hierarchical way – with staff from all EO departments and offices; with staff from other ESA directorates, and with the EO community at large (typically Member State delegations, industry, scientific committees and user groups).

In respect of other EO programmes:

• Similar to FutureEO, on an ad hoc basis.

Technical competencies

Behavioural competencies

Result Orientation
Operational Efficiency
Fostering Cooperation
Relationship Management
Continuous Improvement
Forward Thinking

Education

A Master's degree in engineering or in a earth observation related science domain is required.

Additional requirements

• Ability to act as a reliable and recognised reference person, in a non-hierarchical relationship environment;
• Ability to work autonomously and to take initiatives;
• Ability to deliver on time;
• Ability to network in various environments (ESA Staff, Delegations, industry);
• A Socio-economic education is a plus (and could – provided it is related to Earth Observation – be an alternative to an education in engineering or science).