Payload AIT Manager

Location: Madrid, Spain

A Joint Venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), Thales Alenia Space is a global space manufacturer delivering, for more than 40 years, high-tech solutions for telecommunications, navigation, Earth Observation, environmental management, exploration, science and orbital infrastructures. Thanks to our diversity of skills, talents and cultures, our customers (governments, institutions, space agencies, telecommunications operators), therefore have Space to Connect, Secure & Defend, Observe & Protect, Explore, Travel & Navigate.

Thales in Spain is a leader in technological solutions applied to Defence, Aeronautics, Security, Transportation and Space and, furthermore, is a global centre for excellence in Space, Security of Critical Infrastructures and Transportation. With a turnover of €320 million and a staff of 1,200, it exports approximately 40% of its total production principally to the Middle East, North Africa and Latin America.

About the Role

We are looking for a Payload AIT Manager to join our team and lead the Assembly, Integration and Test (AIT) activities of cutting-edge space programs.

You will play a key role in ensuring the successful delivery of payload AIT activities, coordinating multidisciplinary teams and managing schedule, cost and quality objectives throughout the program lifecycle. This position requires strong technical expertise, leadership capabilities and the ability to work effectively in a dynamic and international environment.

Key Responsibilities

AIT Planning & Execution

• Define the AIT plan, test sequence and key elements of the test bench specifications based on the program test plan.
• Manage the execution of the AIT plan and coordinate activities with all involved departments.
• Ensure the availability of all required inputs, including documentation, hardware, software and Ground Support Equipment (GSE).
• Organize and lead risk analyses related to AIT activities and test campaigns.
• Monitor AIT performance and implement corrective actions when required.

Program & Customer Interface

• Support major program reviews and contractual milestones, including PDR, CDR, FMCR and other key reviews.
• Act as the project's focal point for all AIT-related technical and programmatic matters.
• Organize and lead AIT contractual milestones, including Test Readiness Reviews (TRR) and Non-Conformance Review Boards (NRB).
• Coordinate payload delivery and transfer activities with the prime contractor, ensuring readiness of resources and equipment.

Team & Work Package Management

• Functionally lead and coordinate the AIT team within the program.
• Ensure compliance with Quality and Technical standards, procedures and referentials.
• Manage the AIT Work Package, taking responsibility for cost, schedule and quality performance.
• Capture lessons learned and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across programs.

Education & Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Aerospace, Telecommunications, Electronics, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical discipline.

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Several years of experience in project management.
• Experience in Space AIT activities, ideally beyond equipment level.
• Experience in one or more of the following domains:
  • Telecommunications
  • Earth Observation
  • Navigation Systems
• Experience coordinating and leading multidisciplinary teams.
• Good understanding of Systems Engineering processes and lifecycle.
• Knowledge of testing methodologies and defect management processes.
• Familiarity with Ground Support Equipment (GSE) solutions.
• Experience in cost and schedule management.
• Professional proficiency in English and Spanish.

Desirable

• Knowledge of French.
• Previous experience in satellite or payload integration programs.
• Experience working with international customers and partners.

What We're Looking For

We are looking for someone who is:

• Results-oriented and accountable.
• Pragmatic and solution-driven.
• Agile, proactive and adaptable.
• Rigorous and detail-oriented.
• A strong communicator with excellent stakeholder management skills.
• Comfortable working in multidisciplinary and multicultural environments.
• Motivated to take on new challenges within an innovative and fast-paced industry.

What we offer

• Flexible and smart working model, including hybrid work arrangements and flexible working hours.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Free meals at the office.
• 28 business days of annual leave.
• Company pension plan.
• Individual learning and development programs.
• Opportunities to work on cutting-edge space technologies and international projects.
• Collaborative, innovative, and multicultural working environment.
• Career growth opportunities within a rapidly evolving industry.

At Thales Alenia Space we provide CAREERS and not only jobs. With Thales Alenia Space employing around 8,900 employees in 10 countries with 17 sites in Europe and a plant in the US, our mobility policy enables employees each year to develop their careers at home and abroad. Thales Alenia Space sees space as a new horizon, helping to build a better, more sustainable life on Earth #SpaceForLife. Great journeys start here, apply now!

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