Copernicus Operations Framework Service Manager

Job Requisition ID: 18665

Date Posted: 2 May 2024

Application Deadline: 23 May 2024 23:59 CET/CEST

Publication: Internal & External

Type of Contract: Permanent

Directorate: Directorate of Earth Observation Programmes

Workplace: Frascati, IT

Grade Band: A2 - A4

Location
ESRIN, Frascati, Italy

Description
Copernicus Operations Framework Service Manager in the Copernicus Ground Segment Services Section, Copernicus Ground Segment and Data Management Division, Mission Management and Ground Segment Department, Directorate of Earth Observation Programmes.

Copernicus is the Earth observation component of the European Space Programme. It offers accurate, accessible data for environmental management, climate change mitigation and civil security.

ESA manages, amongst other things, the Copernicus ground segment operations to provide users with timely access to high-quality data from Copernicus satellite missions (such as Sentinels and future Expansion Missions). A cost-effective and flexible service-based approach is required to address the challenges facing Copernicus missions, such as evolving user needs and growing data volumes.

The Copernicus Ground Segment Services Section is responsible overall for the operations of the Copernicus Space Component (Copernicus Operations), which include:

• the preparation, procurement and management of Copernicus ground segment industrial operational services contract(s) for the following services, guaranteeing that the required level of performance for Copernicus is achieved within budget and schedule:

• data acquisition service
• data preservation/long-term archive service
• mission planning service
• data production service
• Copernicus operations end-to-end monitoring service

• the preparation, procurement and management of Copernicus and DestinE Ecosystem’s advanced operational services, guaranteeing that the required level of performance is achieved within budget and schedule;
• the definition and implementation of strategies for continuous improvement in the efficiency and effectiveness of the operational services of the Copernicus and DestinE Ecosystem.

To achieve the above objectives, the Copernicus Operations Framework Service Managers are responsible for the management of Copernicus and DestinE Ecosystem operational service(s), particularly the Copernicus ground segment industrial service(s).

Duties
As Copernicus Operations Framework Service Manager, your tasks and responsibilities will include:

• defining and maintaining the technical and service requirements and their evolution, including the service level requirements and cost model design for the operations, management, availability, environmental sustainability and security of the service(s) under your responsibility;
• managing the procurement of new (or to be renewed, or enhanced implementation) Copernicus ground segment and/or DestinE services under your responsibility, including:

• service definition (including service level requirements and cost model design);
• procurement preparation and implementation (including preparation of tender documentation and evaluation of industrial proposals);
• contract negotiation.

• managing the operational industrial services and contracts under your responsibility (including service level performance management, verifying industrial outputs, reviews and acceptance) in coordination with the other relevant interfaces within the division and the department;
• contributing to the strategic definition and enhancement of Copernicus ground segment services and DestinE advance operational services;
• contributing to the identification and assessment of emerging technologies, methodologies, innovative solutions or best practices that could enhance the performance, reliability, capabilities, environmental sustainability and/or cost-effectiveness of the Copernicus and DestinE Ecosystem operations;
• contributing to the risk management definition, mitigation actions and analysis and reporting on the operations in relation to the service(s) under your responsibility;
• supporting Copernicus and DestinE project reviews;
• providing expert support to Copernicus ground segment and DestinE teams;
• monitoring applicable technological trends and maintaining state-of-the-art expertise;
• contributing to the dissemination of the results of the activities performed and to the transfer of knowledge and lessons learned within ESA.

This position will provide exposure to cutting-edge technologies and methodologies in the field of Earth observation, Cloud computing and space programmes, while contributing to the continuous improvement of DestinE and Copernicus ground segment services, making it possible to address and anticipate the future challenges facing the Programmes.

Technical competencies
Understanding of scalable and distributed systems architecture for big data management

Experience in managing operational projects and/or operational services

Sound knowledge of Copernicus and DestinE programmes and related EO initiatives

Experience in design or implementation of data management solutions with cloud native services or with Big data frameworks

Understanding in design, development or operations of Earth Observation ground systems

Knowledge of artificial intelligence (AI) in area(s) of relevance for the position (such as the EO domain, Earth Science modelling, operational processes or processors)

Experience in Earth observation data and applications

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

Education
A master's degree or PhD in a relevant field such as aerospace engineering, Earth observation, space system engineering, satellite communication, computer science, informatics or data management is required for this post.

Additional requirements
The following would be considered an asset:

• at least three years of relevant professional experience.

You should also have:

• a high level of motivation and dedication, with the ability to take ownership and adopt a proactive approach;
• the proven ability to effectively work within a team and across teams in an international environment;
• strong problem-solving skills to deal with day-to-day operational challenges, together with demonstrated planning and organisational skills;
• strong result orientation with the ability to set priorities and present practical solutions both orally and in writing.
• effective negotiation skills.
• the flexibility required to work on different topics.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusiveness
ESA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. We therefore welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics. Applications from women are encouraged.

At the Agency we value diversity, and we welcome people with disabilities. Whenever possible, we seek to accommodate individuals with disabilities by providing the necessary support at the workplace. The Human Resources Department can also provide assistance during the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss this further, please contact us via email at [email protected].

Important Information and Disclaimer
Recruitment will normally be at the first grade in the band (A2); however, if the candidate selected has little or no experience, the position may be filled at A1 level.

During the recruitment process, the Agency may request applicants to undergo selection tests. Additionally, successful candidates will need to undergo basic screening before appointment, which will be conducted by an external background screening service, in compliance with the European Space Agency's security procedures.

Note that ESA is in the process of transitioning to a Matrix setup, which could lead to organisational changes affecting this position.

The information published on ESA’s careers website regarding working conditions is correct at the time of publication. It is not intended to be exhaustive and may not address all questions you would have.

Nationality and Languages
Please note that applications can only be considered from nationals of one of the following States: Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and Canada, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia and Slovenia.

According to the ESA Convention, the recruitment of staff must take into account an adequate distribution of posts among nationals of the ESA Member States*. When short-listing for an interview, priority will first be given to internal candidates and secondly to external candidates from under-represented Member States*.

The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these is required. Knowledge of another Member State language would be an asset.

*Member States, Associate Members or Cooperating States.

Who we recruit »

Recruitment Process »

What we offer »

Life at ESA »

FAQ »

Apply now »