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Senior Project Manager

Orbex Space

Orbex Space

Operations
Copenhagen, Denmark · 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
Posted on Apr 3, 2025
Orbex are looking for a Senior Project Manager to support complex launch vehicle R&D propulsion projects for the Orbex Prime Launch vehicle.
You will be a highly experienced Project Manager with proven experience of managing a multi-disciplinary team of engineers to deliver large, complex and high-tech projects. You will be able to draw on experience to ensure the effective delivery of projects from R&D through, development, manufacturing, test and ultimately of flight ready systems.
You will be able to navigate the complexities of safety-critical and highly regulated industry practices, working with your team of expert engineers to drive forward the multitude of sub-projects leading to the successful delivery of your team’s deliverables and ultimately leading to the launch of the Prime launch vehicle while reporting directly to the Chief of Programmes.

This will be a fast-paced opportunity that offers exceptional freedom to further evolve the project management function in Copenhagen (CPH) to support the delivery of critical systems on this unique space launch vehicle.

Orbex

Orbex is a leading micro-launch company with our Prime and Proxima launch vehicles being prepared to launch from Scotland. We are well placed to be one of the first operational micro-launch companies in Europe with over €158m/£133m of project financing secured, a number of customers signed up, launch licence application submitted, and backing from organisations including UKSA and ESA.

We are a rapidly growing company with staff located between our production and test facilities in Forres, Scotland and Copenhagen, Denmark. Working on cutting edge advances in rocket fuel technology, Prime’s carbon footprint is up to 96% lower than comparable vehicles, leading to innovations in propulsion and tank structures. A state-of-the-art re-flight system means we can recover and reuse our technology, and innovations in separation mechanisms mean we leave no debris on orbit.
Having developed in-house production capability, we can 3D print complex engines, produce full-scale carbon composite fuel tanks, and have avionics and software testing labs in both Scotland and Denmark. Based in Copenhagen, you will be right in the heart of this fast-paced cutting-edge company, using your skills to build a new launch vehicle for a buoyant commercial market.

Orbex is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is working towards a more diverse workforce in the aerospace industry.

Responsibilities of the Senior Project Manager:
  • Leading the Project Management function in CPH to deliver local projects on time across Avionics, Software, Propulsion and Fluid Networks from prototype to a fully commissioned launch vehicle sub-system.
  • Accountable for the local project strategy within the programme, its implementation and management as the company moves from prototypes to the production launch vehicle.
  • Leading delivery of approved Projects in line with agreed timelines, budgets, and business case outcomes
  • Managing effective senior relationships, conflict of interest resolution, identifying solutions and opportunities to reduce risk, and managing expectations on the feasibility of delivering the agreed project deliverables in line with project and programme plans.
Essential
  • A strong driving force, able to optimise processes and effect change in a growing, complex and multidisciplinary organisation.
  • You will need the gravitas and communication skills to build trust between the various internal stakeholders, using clear communication to drive excellence across project and technical teams.
  • It is expected that you will have a strong track record of leading and delivering large multi-disciplinary engineering projects from prototype to final (flight-ready) status, this will incorporate technical disciplines such as electronics, software engineering, systems engineering, propulsion, mechanical and composite production.
  • Extensive and specialized knowledge of Programme and Project Management theory, concepts and principles (e.g. risk and opportunity management, change management, critical path methodology, project scope and change management, resource estimating and management lifecycle).
  • It is expected that you will have formal programme management qualifications such an accredited Programme Management qualification APMP, PRINCE2 Practitioner, etc.
Preferred – though not essential:
  • Space related experience
  • Regulated industry experience such as aerospace or defence
We are looking for experienced candidates who can demonstrate they get things done with a pragmatic attitude and reliable results, not fazed by challenges or problems. In this role we expect you to drive change & make your mark on business practices with a wide degree of flexibility and responsibility to achieve a specific outcome. Your track record will be important.
This is a compelling and rare career opportunity.

Location – Copenhagen

Our roles need to be on-site in Denmark due to the nature of the position, export controls and security. This role is based in Copenhagen at Orbex’s Danish propulsion engineering and manufacturing site.
Copenhagen is one of Europe's most modern and aesthetically interesting cities. It is regarded as being one of the most livable cities in the world, with a strong reputation for being clean, green and sustainable.
With a huge, active waterfront and a lively social scene, Copenhagen offers a wide range of social activities and leisure opportunities, all with a uniquely Scandinavian flair. Activities include cycling and sailing, and the centre of the city is famed for it's cultural highlights.

Security

You must be a UK or European citizen or from a country that is a signatory to the MTCR convention. You may be required to undergo a UK BPSS check which includes a criminal record check.

Benefits
  • Competitive salary
  • Annual 1% special holiday allowance
  • Group Life Insurance, Lump Sum.
  • 30 days of paid vacation plus public holidays
  • Up to 8 days additional leave per year, for child related sickness (up to age of 12)
  • Enhanced Maternity and Paternity leave
  • Cycle to work Scheme
  • Employee Assistance Programme
  • Orbex are able to sponsor visas for you and your family and provide comprehensive relocation assistance, this includes 1 month of accommodation in the local area paid for by the company, a relocation allowance and full support through the visa application process.