Head of the Human Exploration Department

Job Requisition ID: 21205 Date Posted: 12 November 2026 Closing Date: 9 December 2026 23:59 CET/CEST Publication Method: Internal & External Type of Appointment (learn more): 4 years, extendable to indefinite Directorate: Human and Robotic Exploration Workplace: Porz-Wahn, DE Grade Band (learn more): A6 - A6 **Location** EAC, Cologne, Germany **Description** --------------- The Directorate of Human and Robotic Exploration Programmes (D/HRE) is a programme directorate within the ESA matrix structure. Through a partnership between humans and robots, D/HRE is dedicated to exploring destinations in space where humans are already living and working — or will live and work in the future — for the purpose of scientific research, economic development, international cooperation and public inspiration. The Head of the Human Exploration Department is responsible for the European Astronaut Corps and the Agency's cross-cutting human spaceflight activities in support of all destinations. **Duties** ---------- * Manage the implementation of five different types of astronaut mission, including Artemis, ISS long-duration missions, EPIC, PAM and commercial missions to new stations; * Provide leadership for the implementation of crew operations, including astronaut, training and medical activities, across all ESA exploration destinations; * Provide leadership and direction for the European Astronaut Corps; * Represent ESA in the ISS Multilateral Crew Operations Panel (MCOP), the Artemis Crew Operations Panel (ACOP) and their subordinate boards, working with international partners to secure high-visibility opportunities for ESA astronauts; * Ensure the establishment of science requirements that enable human exploration, coordinating their implementation with the various destination leads; * Lead and coordinate the LUNA and EAC Integrated Team; * Take responsibility for ESA astronaut selection; * Provide input to the Directorate and the Director General on astronaut flight assignments; * Oversee the implementation and verification of human spaceflight safety requirements in the design, development, operations and decommissioning of human exploration missions; * Lead the implementation of National Astronaut Missions in close coordination with the respective Member States, engaging at both operational and delegate level, up to Head of Delegation. You will also be responsible for identifying, assessing, managing and reporting the health and safety risks in your area of responsibility. **Technical competencies** -------------------------- In-depth knowledge of crew operations, including astronaut training, medical, in-flight and PR activities Ability to lead international collaboration Strong understanding of the astronaut experience, including training, long-duration spaceflight, public relations and engagement with senior political and institutional stakeholders **Behavioural competencies** ---------------------------- Result Orientation Op