European Space Agency (ESA)
The European Space Agency (ESA) is building a reserve list of pre-qualified Governance and Business Operations Specialists to meet consistently high demand across its programmes and projects. Successful candidates will be fast-tracked for positions arising over a 24-month period across ESA's eight sites — Noordwijk (ESTEC), Darmstadt (ESOC), Cologne (EAC), Harwell, Frascati (ESRIN), Redu, Villanueva de la Canada (ESAC), and Paris (HQ) — without needing to reapply. The Governance and Business Operations Specialist role sits at the intersection of institutional governance, programme management, and operational compliance within one of Europe's most significant intergovernmental organisations. Depending on the area of assignment, the postholder may support procurement and contracting planning processes, industrial policy implementation, Agency-level planning and budgeting, HR administration, strategy and programmatic coordination, or international relations and stakeholder coordination with Member State delegations. For space governance professionals with backgrounds in institutional administration, public sector management, or intergovernmental organisations, this reserve list offers a structured pathway into ESA's operational and governance infrastructure — supporting the execution of programmes spanning Earth observation, navigation, human spaceflight, space science, and secure satellite communications. ESA member state nationality is required; excellent command of English and French is mandatory.
Vocational qualification (EQF level 5) or equivalent in a relevant discipline Minimum 4 years of relevant post-related professional experience Knowledge of ESA's regulatory framework and governance processes in at least one of: procurement and contracting, HR administration and payroll, planning, budgeting and controlling, or industrial policy and geo-return processes Excellent spoken and written command of both English and French (mandatory) Proficiency in digital tools and information systems supporting business processes Ability to manage structured data, reporting, and compliance documentation Nationality of an ESA Member State or cooperating state required Knowledge of another Member State language and relevant specialised certifications an asset