Programme​/Project Controller

Location: Noordwijk

Description
For more than half a century, Serco has walked alongside the pioneers of space. Serco has supported over 50 ESA missions where our teams have helped launch satellites, guide spacecraft across the void and turn data into discoveries that reshape our world. With thousands of specialists contributing across the entire space lifecycle from satellite testing to launch services, LEOP to operations and surveillance, we’ve become a trusted force in national and European space strategies.

And now, the next chapter could include you.

On behalf of our client, the European Space Agency, we are looking for a  Programme/Project Controller  to join our team at the esteemed ESA-ESTEC site, in the Netherlands.

The support activities are planned for the period from 01 August 2026 until 31 December 2026.

Responsibilities

Support the planning, execution and follow-up of ESA programmes and projects.

Maintain schedules, work plans and procurement plans.

Monitor project progress and prepare reports and management information.

Track KPIs and programme performance.

Support manpower planning and resource allocation.

Assist with budget preparation, forecasting and cost control.

Identify deviations and support corrective actions.

Review expenditures and ensure alignment with project budgets and Cost-at-Completion (CAC).

Support tender activities and contract execution.

Assist with price and schedule evaluations.

Maintain contract information and milestone payment plans in ESA systems.

Monitor financial commitments, invoicing and payments.

Support inventory and export control activities.

Prepare reports and analyses to support programme management.

Maintain project data and management tools.

Support programme risk management activities.

Provide progress reports and end-of-year budget forecasts.

Contribute to process improvements and work closely with management, stakeholders and service providers.

Profile

Master's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, MBA or a related discipline.

Minimum 4 years of relevant experience in project control, programme management or resource management.

SAP experience is mandatory.

Experience with in the aerospace industry is an advantage.

Good understanding of budgeting, forecasting and project reporting.

Knowledge of procurement and contract management processes.

Knowledge of project control methods and milestone payment plans.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Advanced Microsoft Excel skills are essential.

Experience with SAP (ECC/SRM), ESA-p or similar systems is an advantage.

Familiarity with Power BI is a plus.

Knowledge of finance or accounting is beneficial.

Ability to work effectively in an international and multidisciplinary environment.

Excellent organisational, communication and interpersonal skills.

Fluent in English, both written and spoken.

EU nationality required.

What we Offer
At Serco, we believe that a career should come with more than just a paycheck, it should provide support, security, and a sense of balance in your life. Your salary will be paid promptly on Fridays before the 28th of each month, giving you peace of mind about your finances.

We support your daily life and commute in practical ways. If you travel to work, you can claim a travel allowance of €0.21 per kilometre for up to 150 km, or you can have your public transport fully reimbursed. For those working from home, there’s a small daily allowance of €2 to cover extra costs, and new employees can be reimbursed up to €500 for a desk or chair to make their home workspace comfortable.

When your work takes you on missions or travel, all business-related expenses are fully covered, and for peace of mind during tax season, our appointed advisor will assist you in completing your income tax forms. If you enjoy cycling, our bicycle scheme allows you to benefit from a tax‑efficient allowance of up to €749, one year of full insurance with an additional €89 per year for accessories.

Serco also cares about your long‑term security. All employees are covered under a collective life insurance scheme, and our health insurance partnership with Zilverenkruis Achmea offers discounts of 5% on basic coverage and up to 10% on additional…