Documentation Manager

Octagon Professionals is one of the main service providers supporting the European Space Agency, and we are expanding our documentation support team at ESTEC in Noordwijk. We are looking for structured, detail-oriented professionals who enjoy working in an international, technical environment.

Role Summary
As the Documentation & Security Service Manager, we are seeking a results-driven professional to take ownership of the end-to-end delivery of the Navigation Documentation Support Service (BMC-55) for the ESA Navigation Directorate. This role serves as the primary point of contact with ESA and ensures full compliance with contractual, security, and performance requirements across both classified and unclassified domains. The position combines operational leadership, stakeholder management, and service governance within a highly regulated environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate three Work Packages:
• WP1 – Classified Registrar Support: Ensure accountability and control of classified information and equipment at ESA CONFIDENTIAL (or equivalent) and ESA SECRET (or equivalent) levels, including COMSEC-related material.
• WP2 – COMSEC Item Custodian (CIC) Support: Manage COMSEC accounts hosted by the Navigation Directorate and ensure regulatory compliance.
• WP3 – Documentalist Support: Oversee unclassified information management within the Navigation Directorate, with activities at ESTEC (Noordwijk) and CST (Toulouse).
• Act as the main interface with H/NAV-SP, NAV ISO, and ESA Security Office.
• Oversee personnel security, PSC status, training, and compliance.
• Approve and submit Service Plans, SRR documentation, and operational procedures.
• Monitor KPIs, prepare quarterly performance reports, and implement corrective actions.
• Lead audits, inspections, and the management of security incidents.
• Coordinate service delivery between ESTEC and CST.
• Drive continuous improvement across all three Work Packages.

Education

• Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in STEM and/or business-related disciplines.

Experience

• Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in service management, security management, documentation services, or similar roles within highly regulated or classified environments (preferably space, aerospace, defense, or governmental organizations).

Security & Eligibility

• EU Member State nationality (mandatory)
• Valid Personnel Security Clearance (PSC) or eligibility
• Willingness to undergo ESA security training and certification

What We Offer

• A competitive salary package.
• Up to 30 vacation days plus 12 public holidays (based on a 40-hour work week).
• Pension contributions.
• Annual access to the ESTEC gym and swimming pool.
• Join a collaborative and international team and contribute to meaningful European space missions.

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 38 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.

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