Air Operations Expert - Rotorcraft

Job Overview

The Air Operations Expert - Rotorcraft will support the implementation of rulemaking, safety promotion and research activities under the European Plan for Aviation Safety (EPAS). In this role, the post-holder will contribute to the development of effective, proportionate and forward-looking air operations standards, working closely with internal and external stakeholders across the European and international aviation system.

The position requires the ability to lead complex technical activities and facilitate stakeholder discussions. It is intended for a professional with demonstrable specialist expertise in rotorcraft air operations.

Main Accountabilities

• Lead or contribute to assigned rulemaking, safety promotion and research tasks within areas of expertise, in line with the European Plan for Aviation Safety (EPAS).
• Develop and draft regulatory material, guidance material, acceptable means of compliance and other relevant non-binding products related to air operations standards.
• Apply the Agency’s rulemaking procedures and contribute to the continuous improvement of methods, processes and ways of working.
• Act as the focal point for assigned technical domains within air operations standards, providing expert input and ensuring consistency of technical and regulatory positions.
• Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders, including the European Commission services, to support the development, consultation, communication and implementation of regulatory outputs.
• Lead or support expert groups, stakeholder discussions, public consultations, workshops and meetings, including the preparation, conduct and follow-up of such activities.
• Prepare briefing notes, reports, analyses, presentations and other material to support decision-making, communication and stakeholder engagement.
• Represent the Agency, as appropriate, in meetings, workshops, conferences and other relevant fora.
• Monitor operational, safety, technological and regulatory developments, assess their potential impact, and contribute to the evolution of the regulatory framework.
• Contribute to the planning, monitoring and delivery of assigned tasks and outputs, ensuring alignment with milestones, quality standards and project objectives.
• Contribute, where relevant, to tender specifications, evaluation of bids, and oversight of externally contracted research and study projects.
• Lead assigned rulemaking and related technical activities in the field of rotorcraft air operations.
• Act as the department’s focal point for rotorcraft air operations matters and provide specialist advice within the Agency.
• Represent the Agency externally as subject-matter expert in rotorcraft air operations.
• Support collaboration within the team, including providing back-up to peer Air Operations Experts during absences and key events.

Admission Criteria

The following constitute eligibility and essential criteria for the role and for being admitted to the selection process. Candidates not fulfilling these criteria by the deadline for applications, will be excluded from the selection:

• Have a thorough knowledge of one of the languages of the European Union (at least level C1) and a satisfactory knowledge of another language of the EU to the extent necessary for the performance of the duties (at least level B2). One of the required languages shall be English*.
• Be a national of a Member State of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland.
• Have completed university studies of at least three (3) years attested by a diploma in relevant subjects in scope of the profile. 
• After obtaining the university degree, have at least three (3) years of professional experience acquired in relevant areas.
• Have a proven track record in drafting, reviewing or implementing technical or regulatory aviation material.
• Demonstrate professional experience in rotorcraft operations or oversight, with knowledge of rotorcraft operational concepts, limitations, and safety considerations.

The following constitute advantageous criteria for the role. Candidates not fulfilling these criteria will not be excluded from the selection process:

• Being or having been a qualified air operations and/or RAMP inspector within an aviation authority.
• Familiarity with chairing or facilitating technical working groups involving multiple stakeholders.
• Familiarity with research, innovation or emerging technologies, safety risk management, safety analysis or operational risk assessment.
• Holding or having held a Pilot Licence for Rotorcraft.

* English oral and written skills will be assessed throughout the assessment phase. Further language assessment may be organised, where necessary, to verify compliance with the requirement to demonstrate knowledge of two EU languages.

This vacancy is open as well to Temporary Agents (2f) employed at EASA, in the grade bracket AD5-AD9.

Selection Criteria

The selection process is based on the assessment of the Professional Skills and Behavioural Competences listed below. While these are considered critical to perform the role effectively, candidates who do not meet all criteria may still be considered.

Professional Skills

Behavioural Competences

Mandatory Pre-Employment Requirements

Prior to recruitment, you will be requested to demonstrate that you:  

• Are entitled to the full rights as a citizen
• Have fulfilled any obligations imposed by the applicable laws on military service
• Meet the character requirements for the duties involved (you will be asked to provide a police certificate confirming the absence of any criminal record) 
• Are physically fit to perform the duties linked to the post (you will be asked to undergo a medical examination in a centre indicated by EASA)

Conditions of employment

Contract: 5 years contract as Temporary Agent 2 (f) with possibility of extension
Working hours: 40 hrs per week (on a full-time working pattern). Flexible working arrangements
Salary: Step in grade upon recruitment based on years of work experience. Additional allowances depending on personal situation
Location: Cologne, Germany (relocation is required)