Junior Space Policy Officer Didcot 2024

Join Astroscale Ltd. as we embark on a thrilling journey to expand our Space Policy team in 2024! We have an exciting slate of activities planned for the upcoming year, and we're seeking a passionate individual to join us on a 12-month fixed term contract in shaping the future of space policy and regulations for the long-term sustainability of space activities.

In this role, you will have the unique opportunity to play a key part in fostering the growth of our policy and regulatory initiatives, particularly those supported by the International Bilateral Fund (IBF). As a crucial member of our team, you'll collaborate closely with the Head of Legal, Regulatory Affairs, and Space Policy. Your responsibilities will include researching, reviewing and summarising policy documents, delving into independent research on cutting-edge topics related to space sustainability and space debris removal.

You'll also be at the forefront of coordinating activities and events both within Astroscale globally and with external stakeholders, you will be able to develop our presence on the international stage.

Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be expected to:

• Support Astroscale’s activities within the International Bilateral Fund (IBF) project.
• Engage in comprehensive research on space sustainability, in-orbit servicing and space debris removal, and related law and policy areas.
• Monitor space law and policy developments and initiatives in the UK and Europe and prepare weekly reports to the Heads of departments.
• Review and analyse space law and policy documents and papers and prepare regular summaries to the Heads of departments.
• Support with the preparation of space policy and strategy papers, contributing to the evolution and implementation of Astroscale’s space policy and regulations measures and initiatives.
• Support the Head of department in the implementation of Astroscale global space policy and related activities.
• Attend, on behalf of the Head of department, whenever required, space policy engagements, workshops, and meetings in the UK and Europe.
• Act as a key point of contact and support and coordinate activities and events, both internal within Astroscale, and external stakeholders.
• Maintain a coherent set of presentation materials and prepare intervention for the Head of department.
• Assisting the Head of department in daily matters and in ad hoc tasks, as necessary.

Essential skills

• Undergraduate or Master's degree (or a combination of) in fields related to policy, international relations, law (with a focus on space law), political science, or a relevant scientific or engineering discipline.
• Knowledge of the UK institutional framework, policies, and regulations on spaceflight activities.
• Knowledge of the European and international space sector (institutional, regulatory and commercial).
• Knowledge and understanding of Astroscale’s core business.
• Knowledge of the legal and regulatory environment for space activities, conventions, rules, regulations, and policies.
• Ability to understand and create succinct summaries of complex papers, documents, and policies.
• Strong communication skills, including clear and concise writing, public speaking, interpersonal and cross-cultural communication.
• Excellent time management and organisational skills.

Desirable skills

• French, other European, and/or Japanese language skills.
• Demonstrated experience in successfully collaborating with Japanese institutions, showcasing an understanding of and respect for Japanese culture and diplomatic norms.
• Ability to negotiate effectively with international partners, stakeholders, and other space-faring nations.
• Understanding and respecting diverse cultures, as space collaboration often involves working with individuals from different backgrounds.
• Skill in resolving disputes and conflicts diplomatically, especially in situations where competing interests may arise.
• Experience in navigating and contributing to multilateral agreements and forums related to space exploration and policy.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary
• Opportunity to work with a highly talented, diverse & dynamic international team with cutting edge technology
• Flexible working around core hours in a friendly and supportive environment
• Hybrid working available (dependent on individual role requirements)
• 25 days holiday (increasing yearly up to a maximum of 28 days) + 8 days Bank Holiday
• Life insurance and long-term sick pay
• Private healthcare (taxable benefit)
• New state of the art office and cleanroom facility
• Regular social events

About Astroscale

We aim to deliver cutting edge technologies that will become part of routine commercial space operations by 2030.

Astroscale is the first private company with a vision to secure the safe and sustainable development of space for the benefit of future generations, and the only company dedicated to in-orbit servicing across all orbits. Founded in 2013, we are developing innovative and scalable solutions across the spectrum of in-orbit servicing missions, including End of Life services, Active Debris Removal, In-situ Space Situational Awareness and Life Extension Services, to create sustainable space systems and mitigate against the hazardous build-up of debris in space.

Astroscale is an Equal Opportunities employer and embraces a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants, including minorities, women and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Note to recruitment agencies: Astroscale operates a preferred Supplier List, and we do not accept unsolicited agency approaches. Please do not forward candidate CVs or details in response to this advert, or to any Astroscale employee.