Project Scheduler

Octagon Professionals is looking for a Schedule and Risk Management Support Specialist to join the European Space Agency (ESA) at ESTEC in Noordwijk.In this role, you will provide expert technical assistance to the ESA in all areas of schedule planning, monitoring, and risk control. You will contribute to the improvement of ESA’s common project management processes, tools, and practices, ensuring high-quality and timely delivery of support services across the CSC Directorate.Key ResponsibilitiesSchedule ManagementCoordinate project schedule and risk support activities, ensuring consistent use of common methodologies and tools.Support project teams in schedule control and periodic monitoring of industrial consortia against baseline schedules.Perform schedule analyses, including critical path, trend charts, and schedule performance metrics.Evaluate industry-submitted schedules using agreed KPIs and prepare performance deviation reports.Provide expert input during major project reviews (e.g., CCBs, IPREV, PDR, CDR) and procurement activities.Develop and maintain project schedule documentation, including baselines, narratives, change control records, and simulations.Configure and maintain schedule management tools in collaboration with project teams.Track and verify consistency between industrial schedules and agency-level planning.Risk ManagementSupport ESA Project Managers and teams in risk identification, analysis, and mitigation planning.Conduct “what-if” and Monte Carlo simulations to assess risk-adjusted scenarios and schedule confidence levels.Administer and maintain project risk management tools and dashboards, ensuring harmonisation across CSC.Contribute to the continuous improvement of ESA’s risk management processes, reporting, and training materials.Process Development and ReportingDevelop and maintain ESA schedule and risk management standards, procedures, and best practices.Prepare and deliver quarterly and ad-hoc reports on schedule and risk performance.Support internal and external audits (e.g., QMS).Contribute to knowledge management, lessons learned, glossaries, and reference documentation.Provide training and expert guidance on schedule and risk management tools to ESA teams.RequirementsMaster’s degree in a STEM discipline (Engineering, Science, Technology, or equivalent).Minimum of 4 years of professional experience in schedule and risk management, ideally in the space or aerospace sector.Proven expertise with scheduling and risk management tools such as:MS Project, Primavera P6, Deltek Acumen Fuse/Risk, @Risk, or equivalent Monte Carlo simulation software.MS Visio Professional or equivalent for process and workflow visualisation.Experience developing, maintaining, and analysing complex project schedules integrating resources, cost, and risk.Knowledge of ESA project management standards and methodologies is a strong asset.Excellent analytical, communication, and presentation skills in English (written and oral).Strong service delivery mindset and ability to work both independently and collaboratively in international, multidisciplinary teams.Proactive, process-oriented, and forward-thinking approach.We offer:Attractive remuneration package.Up to 30 vacation days & additional 12 public holidays based on the 40h working week.Pension contribution to a tailor-made pension scheme.Yearly subscription to the ESTEC gym facilities and a swimming pool.Ready for this new challenge? Apply now and let’s get in touch!Octagon Professionals International is a full-service recruitment and HR services firm with 30 years of experience in the European and international market. Our large network of professionals across multiple functional areas, and multi-national team provide flexible solutions customised to individual client needs.Privacy Notice: In order to apply for this vacancy you must submit your personal information to Octagon Professionals. Octagon Professionals will collect, use and process your personal information as mentioned in our Privacy Policy. Our policy and processing of your personal information is compliant with the GDPR.