Senior Project Manager for Space Missions / Senior Project Manageress for Space Missions

Senior Project Manager for Space Missions

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

ETH Zurich | Space is dedicated to advancing space activities both within ETH and in collaboration with external stakeholders. Our mission is to position ETH Zurich as Europe’s leading institution in space research and education, while also being recognized as a premier partner for space-related projects within Switzerland and globally. Founded in 2022, ETH Zurich | Space has been under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Thomas Zurbuchen since 2023. We are committed to driving technological advancements, shaping future policies, and inspiring the next generation of space scientists and engineers.

This position is offered as a fixed-term appointment for an initial period of two years, with the possibility of extension.

Project Background

The objective of this project is to establish and develop a centralized pool of space specialists. This resource pool will bolster ETH Zurich-led space projects, positioning ETH Zurich as a key player in both the national and international space ecosystem.

A significant portion of this role will contribute to LunarLeaper, an ETH Zurich-led mission concept focused on innovative mobility and exploration strategies for the lunar surface. LunarLeaper serves as a technology pathfinder for advanced planetary systems, autonomy, and system integration, and provides a unique environment for developing and maturing high-risk, high-reward space systems solutions.

Job Description

As an integral part of the specialized resource pool, you will manage multiple space research projects at ETH Zurich. Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders, including space agencies, you will ensure projects are completed on time, within scope and budget, and consistent with ETH rules and policies.

Key responsibilities include:

• Planning and managing complex space projects, including timelines, milestones, reviews, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Actively managing project risks and issues.
• Coordinating closely with systems engineers and technical leads to ensure alignment between technical progress, schedule, cost, and risk.
• Developing and implementing mitigation strategies for potential problems in collaboration with experts and space projects.
• Coordinating with stakeholders such as faculty members, industry partners, the Swiss Space Office, and space agencies like ESA, JAXA, and NASA.
• Negotiating and managing contracts with customers and suppliers in collaboration with ETH's Research Contracts Group.
• Supporting the preparation and submission of project proposals, grant applications, and bids.
• Managing reporting, documentation, and administrative tasks, including preparing documentation packages for official reviews.
• Organizing and preparing internal and external meetings.

Profile

The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of successfully managing complex projects, ideally within the space sector. You excel in organizational and interpersonal skills and possess excellent knowledge of the Swiss and European space ecosystem, including key suppliers and companies.

Required qualifications include:

• A Master's degree in engineering or natural science.
• 5+ years of experience in managing complex projects.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, including the ability to create project plans and schedules.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
• Proven ability to deliver solutions under pressure and tight timelines.
• Knowledge of supply chain management.

Candidates who do not fully meet the listed qualifications are still encouraged to apply.

Additionally, the following characteristics are a plus:

• Experience with planetary or lunar rovers and/or landed spacecraft is highly desirable.
• Proven experience in managing or working on space-related projects.
• Experience in collaborating with academic institutions on space projects.
• Extensive knowledge of the Swiss and European space ecosystem, including OEMs and Tier 1-4 suppliers.
• Proficiency in business aspects of space projects, including documentation, supplier collaboration, workflow design, product assurance, and task prioritization.
• Familiarity with product assurance, quality, configuration and risk management processes, as well as international space standards such as ECSS.

Workplace

We offer a dynamic, international, and interdisciplinary work environment at one of the world's leading technical universities. You will be part of a motivated team that shares a passion for space and innovation, with the opportunity to contribute to space missions from early concept to flight.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture. We advocate for equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

To apply, please use the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For further information about our department, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Florian Kehl (florian.kehl@eaps.ethz.ch) (no applications).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we forge connections globally to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.