Head of Division for Neutron Scattering Systems

ESS is looking for a Head of Division for Neutron Scattering Systems (NSS) Projects, organised within the Technical Directorate. The successful candidate will also be the sub-project leader for delivery of the neutron scattering instruments that are part of the ESS construction project.

The NSS Projects Division is responsible for construction and commissioning of the neutron scattering instruments for the ESS, most of which are being designed and delivered by in-kind partners. The division is comprised of six groups: Planning and Coordination; Instrument Scientist Group; Technical Projects, Detectors; Choppers; and Experiment Control & Data Curation. The scope of the division includes neutron detectors and data acquisition electronics, chopper systems, experiment control systems, electrical and service infrastructure, the neutron bunker (radiological shielding and infrastructure) surrounding the neutron source, a test beamline and delivery of the first set of neutron scattering instruments. As a substantial portion of the scope of the division is being delivered by in-kind partners from the member states, management of in-kind delivery is a major focus for this position.

Job description

The Head of the NSS Projects Division is responsible for managing and directing the Divison staff, and for planning, managing and executing the NSS sub-project plan and related technical work in collaboration with a diverse set of in-kind partners. The successful candidate will report to the ESS Technical Director.  

Main responsibilities are:


• Lead and coordinate the work within the NSS Projects Division, including line manager responsibility for the management team in the division.
• Manage the NSS Project within the scope of the overall ESS construction project, including planning and executing work to meet the project’s technical performance goals on time and within budget.
• Partner with and support the ESS Project Director to maintain and manage the NSS project plan linked to the overall ESS project plan, and promptly address issues negatively impacting earned value.
• Build and maintain strong collaborative working relationships with in-kind partners contributing to the NSS project.
• Maintain productive relationships with other sub-projects (Accelerator, Integrated Control Systems, Target, and Conventional Facilities)
• Proactively identify and manage project risks.
• Closely collaborate with the Science Directorate to ensure that project execution matches the scientific priorities of ESS.
• Actively engage in planning the transition from instrument completion to hot commissioning and user operation to be performed within the Science Directorate.
• Contribute to advancing ESS from a construction project into a successful user facility.
• In the longer term, contribute to plans for future instrument upgrades and building further instrument at ESS.
• Inspire NSS Division staff to deliver high quality work in a timely manner.
• Enhance the professional growth of the NSS staff.
• Serve as a member of the ESS Technical Board (ETB) and of the Technical Management Team (TMT) as well as Science Management Team (SMT).
• Serve on other ESS boards and committees as agreed with the Technical Director.

Qualifications:

The successful candidate will have: 


• An advanced degree in Science or Engineering
• Commitment to scientific excellence, and preferably own experience as a scientist.
• More than 10 years of work experience in a scientific environment is preferred.
• An understanding of and track record in neutron instruments construction and/or operation
• Experience of working at a user facility
• Demonstrated Project Management construction experience (PMP preferred).
• Demonstrated success in strategic and project planning.
• Successful track record of leading direct reporting staff and engaging people, including cross-organizationally.
• Experience delegating authority, negotiating and building consensus, bringing team members together and motivating continuous improvement.
• A proven track record of attracting, evaluating, mentoring, and developing talented staff.
• Excellent interpersonal and skilled at building productive and sustainable internal and external collaborations.
• Talent in gaining clear agreement and commitment from others by persuading, convincing and negotiating both with internal and external stake holders
• Experience working in an international environment is essential.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Excellent oral and written English skills are a prerequisite; knowledge of other European languages would be an advantage.

Duration & Location
The position is permanent with six months initial probationary period. Your work place will be situated in Lund, Sweden. 

Start date
The position is to be filled as soon as possible.

Application & Contact
Please provide your curriculum vitae in English by clicking on “apply” and follow the instructions. Please note that we only accept applications via the ESS website and that the curriculum vitae and the cover letter must be in English.


The deadline for applications is 2021-08-31.

We look forward to receiving your application!