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

Join ETH Zurich | Space

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

Position Overview

This role is offered as a fixed-term appointment for an initial period of two years, with a possibility of extension. The objective of the project is to establish and develop a centralized pool of space specialists, strengthening ETH Zurich's position in the national and international space ecosystem.

A significant focus of this position will be on LunarLeaper, an ETH Zurich-led mission concept concentrated on innovative mobility and exploration strategies for the lunar surface. LunarLeaper acts as a technology pathfinder for advanced planetary systems, autonomy, and system integration, providing a unique arena for developing high-risk, high-reward space solutions.

Key Responsibilities

As an integral member of the specialized resource pool, you will manage multiple space research projects at ETH Zurich. In collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, including space agencies, you will ensure that projects are completed on time, within scope and budget, while adhering to ETH rules and policies. Your responsibilities will 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 cooperation with experts and space projects.
• Engaging with stakeholders such as faculty members, industry partners, the Swiss Space Office, and 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 and bids.
• Managing reporting, documentation, and administrative tasks, including preparing documentation packages for official reviews.
• Organizing and preparing internal and external meetings.

Qualifications

You should have a proven track record in successfully managing complex projects, ideally within the space sector. We seek someone who excels in organizational and interpersonal skills and possesses excellent knowledge of the Swiss and European space ecosystem, including local suppliers and companies.

We are looking for candidates who meet the following criteria:

• 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 an ability to operate 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 completely fulfill the mentioned skills are also encouraged to apply.

Additional Desired Qualifications

The following characteristics are considered a plus:

• Experience with planetary or lunar rovers and/or landed spacecraft.
• 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 the business aspects of space projects, including documentation, supplier interactions, 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.

What We Offer

• A dynamic, international, and interdisciplinary work environment at one of the world’s leading technical universities.
• A motivated team sharing a passion for space and innovation.
• The opportunity to contribute to space missions from early concept to flight.

How to Apply

We look forward to receiving your application by Sunday, March 29, 2026. Please submit the following:

• Your CV.
• Job references (if available) and diplomas.
• A short video (maximum 90 seconds) about yourself and your motivation for this position.

Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered. For further information about our department, visit our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Florian Kehl (florian.kehl@eaps.ethz.ch), but please refrain from sending applications through this email.

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