The Programme Preparation and Development Department (PRD) manages current and next-generation mandatory programmes in various phases of development in addition to other activities. This include the EUMETSAT Polar System Second Generation (EPS-SG), Meteosat Third Generation (MTG), current and future Ocean Altimetry and Copernicus Sentinel Missions and a constellation of small satellites, EPS-Sterna.

This post is located within the Office of the Director of PRD and reporting to the Institutional Launch Service (ILS) Manager. The successful candidate will be responsible for the provision of organisational and engineering support for the ILS with initial emphasis on launch service management, launcher interface and launch campaign for EPS-SG satellites A1 and B1.

The successful candidate will later on also oversee the procurement and management of launch services for EPS-Sterna satellites in direct support of the EPS-Sterna Programme Manager.

Duties

• Manage the interaction and networking with relevant space agencies, satellite prime and the launch service provider, in particular
  • on compatibility tests with the launcher adapter or activities linked with the System Verification Tests (SVTs),
  • to support the analysis of the impact of satellite modifications on the launch service and vice versa (e.g. qualification testing level, LEOP timeline, separation mechanism etc.), and
  • in the planning, preparation and execution of launch campaigns, acting during launch campaigns as customer representative or its deputy at the launch site.
• Advise the ILS Manager, the Programme Managers and D/PRD of problems and risks encountered in the implementation of EUMETSAT’s launch services and propose possible solutions and/or mitigation measures;
• Act as launch service / segment interface with relevant internal stakeholders, ensuring that provisions and support required to achieve Launch and LEOP activities are in place and coordinated;
• In coordination with Quality Assurance, maintain an accurate record of all anomalies, non-conformances, waivers and deviations encountered during launch preparation and launch campaign;

• Monitor the evolution of the launch manifests and the performance of the selected launch service provider(s) to identify any potential impact on the programme including the evolution of the small “new space” launchers market and future trends;
• Manage, perform or support specific studies, including cost/schedule trade-offs, to define the procurement approach for future small launcher services;
• Consolidate and maintain the requirements for small launch services for EUMETSAT’s small satellites / constellations including launcher performances and a full specification of satellite-to-launch vehicle mechanical, electrical and environmental interface requirements and produce and maintain an “envelope” interface requirements document (e.g. Launch Interface Requirement Document);
• Prepare, initiate and implement the procurement of the launch service for small satellites (e.g. EPS-Sterna) including preparation of the internal documentation, evaluation of proposals and negotiation of the contracts in coordination with the Contract Division and Programme Managers;
• Act as Deputy of ILS Manager for the launch of Metop-SGA1 (planned for Q4/2025) and Metop-SGB1 (planned for Q3/2026).

Skills and Experience

• Proven experience with launcher technology or launch service implementation, particularly with satellite to launcher interface and the interface between the launch and LEOP (launch and early operations) preparations;
• At least 5 years experience in the field of system management and engineering for satellite and/or launcher systems such as analysis of the overall planning, coordination of technical activities and provision of technical guidance;
• Familiarity with satellite interfaces, especially satellite-launcher and space-to-ground interfaces;
• Experience in industry (launcher or satellite) of system interface management or launcher production or launch campaign would be an asset;
• Experience of industrial procurement and technical contract management would be an asset;
• Proven ability to work effectively within teams but also independently, and to analyse complex issues and synthesise matters in a concise way;
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, as well as a proactive attitude.