Ecosystem Economic Modelling Specialist

This is a non-renewable post for a limited duration of 4 years.

Location
ESRIN, Frascati, Italy

Description

Ecosystem Economic Modelling Specialist in the Copernicus Ground Segment Services Section, Copernicus Ground Segment and Data Management Division, Earth Observation Mission Management and Ground Segment Department, Directorate of Earth Observation Programmes.

Within the ESA Earth Observation Framework, ESA – together with its partners and the European Earth observation (EO) and Information Technology (IT) industry – is developing a digital ecosystem, building on Copernicus and DestinE data management services and applications. This ecosystem both aims at and relies on growing a sustainable network of services offered by European industry. It also aims to support users in deriving information through streamlined access to data and innovative services.
ESA contributes to the development of this ecosystem by defining the necessary strategic development objectives, supporting new industrial projects and funding the operations of advanced data access and innovative services. This approach also maximises the synergy between European and national initiatives to optimise the user experience.

As Ecosystem Economic Modelling Specialist, you will be part of the Copernicus Ground Segment and Data Management Division and will contribute to the work implemented by both the Copernicus Ground Segment Services Section and the Ecosystem Development Section, which are in charge, amongst others, of:

the definition and implementation of strategies for continuous improvement in the efficiency and effectiveness of the operational services of the Copernicus and DestinE ecosystem;
the definition, funding and management of the Copernicus and DestinE ecosystem’s advanced operational services.

To achieve these objectives, you will be responsible for establishing and developing an economic model of the Copernicus and DestinE ecosystem to support its growth and long-term sustainability.

For more information, please visit the following links:
-   https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/Destination_Earth
-   https://platform.destine.eu/
-   https://sentinels.copernicus.eu/web/sentinel/home

Duties

As Ecosystem Economic Modelling Specialist, you will have the following duties:

Modelling the economic dimension of the Copernicus data management and DestinE services ecosystem;
Designing and implementing a parametric and configurable cost model tool for the ecosystem, supporting the assessment of different scenarios for the ecosystem service configuration and for user uptake;
Analysing different ecosystem operation scenarios based on the developed cost model and generating recommendations for a strategy to grow the ecosystem with a view to its long-term sustainability;
Supporting the reporting on the ecosystem development status, performance and plans;
Maintaining and evolving the cost model and associated tool;
Managing procurement, including tender documentation preparation and evaluation of industrial proposals, for example for tools or services;
Supporting the Copernicus and DestinE project reviews;
Identifying risks and mitigation actions related to your area of responsibility;
Monitoring applicable technological trends;
Contributing to the dissemination of the results of the activities performed and to the transfer of knowledge and lessons learned within ESA;
Coordinating activities performed with European industry and academia, promoting ESA’s activities to students, researchers and universities, and stimulating cross-fertilisation and new ideas;
Supporting the ESA Earth Observation quality system for the definition and maintenance of the Copernicus, DestinE and ESA DTE quality programme of work.

Technical competencies

Demonstrated experience in Python development

Understanding of economic models in a complex multi-services environment

Ability to identify economic drivers and translate them into parametric cost models

Ability to define innovative processes for measuring and monitoring model performance

Strong innovation and problem-solving skills

Behavioural competencies

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

Education

A master's degree in a relevant domain is required for this post.

Additional requirements

The following competencies would be considered assets:

High-level motivation and dedication, along with the capacity to take ownership and be proactive
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
The ability to manage challenging situations proactively and constructively and to be customer focused

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 contact.human.resources@esa.int.

Important Information and Disclaimer
In principle, recruitment will be within the advertised grade band (A2-A4). However, if the selected candidate has less than four years of relevant professional experience following the completion of the master’s degree, 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.