Head of the Data Management and Operations Division
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The European Southern Observatory (ESO) invites applications for the Head of the Data Management and Operations (DMO) Division. The DoO is responsible for all science operations-related activities including the preparation and execution of observing programmes, the operation of the La Silla Paranal Observatory (LPO), and the off-site operation of the ALMA Observatory in the European region through the ESO ALMA Support Centre (EASC). The Science Archive Facility (SAF) holds all data obtained with ESO's observatories and provides curation, preservation and delivery of data and derived products through its data-management systems.
We are looking for someone who can lead the DMO Division through the next exciting stage of its development with the integration of the ELT into our end-to-end science operations model and the continued enhancement of our science-archive services. By building on our success to date you will become the next leader of our scientific data-management infrastructure, working in close collaboration with the scientific community.
Main Duties And Responsibilities
* the functioning of ESO's end-to-end science operations model, including fostering a close integration with the La Silla Paranal Observatory
* the efficiency and effectiveness of the operation of the DMO Division delivering scientific data of the highest quality and quantity to the scientific community through ESO's Science Archive Facility
* the management and safety of some 30 staff astronomers, scientists, and engineers
* developing an annual resource plan for review and approval and ensuring its execution
* recruiting and maintaining high-quality scientific, technical, and administrative staff
* developing short- to long-term development plans for the DMO Division
* setting the overall goals, priorities, and strategies within DMO for all operational and development aspects in consultation with the respective Programme Scientists
* managing the organisational change implied by the transition of DMO into the ELT era
* reporting on the performance and development of the DMO to ESO's governing and advisory bodies
As Head of the DMO Division you will also act as the Programme Manager for the Data-Flow System (DFS) Development Programme and will be the interface to all other programmes and organisational units at ESO. The development of the end-to-end science operations model in response to ESO's operational needs, and in particular the preparation for the future operation of the Paranal Observatory with the VLT and the ELT, will be your highest priority.
As a Senior Astronomer you are a member of the ESO Astronomy Faculty and will be encouraged and expected to conduct an active astronomical research programme for up to 50% of your time.
The Head of DMO has the status of a Division Head at ESO and reports to the Director of Operations.
Key Competences And Experience
Essential Competences And Experience
* A proven record of at least 15 years of active research
* A proven record of at least 10 years of experience in management and leadership in a scientific organization, preferably in an international setting; management experience must encompass budget, resource and staff management
* Strategic thinking, effective decision-making, and leadership during periods of change
* Ability to set goals, provide a vision for the future, be flexible and adjust plans as required
* Political awareness, the ability to influence, and to manage internal and external stakeholder relationships
* Seeks to understand the perspective of key decision makers and partners
* Builds strong and effective links within and outside the organisation, leveraging emotional intelligence and other soft skills as necessary
* Demonstrates initiative, pro-activeness and effective negotiation skills
* Excellent communication skills
* Works effectively in an international and multi-disciplinary/multi-cultural team environment
Desirable Competences And Experience
* Experience in management of end-to-end scientific data flows
* Experience in management of software development projects
* Observational and technical experience in optical astronomy
Qualifications
PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, physics or related fields.
Language Skills
The position requires an excellent command of written and spoken English.
Remuneration And Contract
We offer an attractive remuneration package including a competitive salary, comprehensive pension scheme and medical, educational and other social benefits, as well as financial help in relocating your family and support to place your child/children in daycare.
Our Salary Structure: ESO's salary structure is based upon a range of career paths which reflect the nature and level of our jobs. Each career path is made up of two or three grades which are used to further reflect experience. For details see https://www.eso.org/public/jobs/conditions/intstaff/salary-structure/
ESO aims to support members of personnel in maintaining a good work-life balance and to offer family-friendly support, creating a work environment and policies which allow staff to balance their professional and private responsibilities through flexible working arrangements and financial support for families.
The contract is for a fixed term duration of three years and is subject to successful completion of the probation period. There may be the possibility of extension(s) subject to individual performance and organisational requirements, as defined in the applicable policies and staff rules and regulations. For further information, please visit ESO's conditions of employment. The contract policy and the regulations concerning fixed-term and indefinite contracts are currently under review and may lead to changes in contractual conditions.
Duty Station
Garching near Munich, Germany with regular duty trips to all ESO sites in Chile as required.
Career Path: VII
Application
If you are interested in working in areas of frontline science and technology and in a stimulating international environment, please visit http://www.eso.org for further details.
Applicants are invited to apply online at http://jobs.eso.org/. Applications must be completed in English and should include a motivation letter and CV, a publication list and a full research statement.
Within your CV, please provide the names and contact details of three persons familiar with your work and willing to provide a recommendation letter upon request. Referees will not be contacted without your prior consent.
Deadline for applications is 17 August 2025. Interviews are expected to start soon after this date.
Job Details
* Seniority level: Director
* Employment type: Full-time
* Job function: Project Management and Information Technology
* Industries: Defense & Space
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