Relocation and Schooling Officer

We are looking for a ​Relocation and Schooling Officer​ on behalf of the European Space Agency (ESA) for their location in ​Harwell, UK​, to join their ​Human Resources department.​ Please be aware that this is a part-time position for roughly 24 hours per week.

Please note, the successful candidate will be employed by ATG Europe (or one of its subsidiaries). Furthermore, upon selection, they will be subject to a general security screening performed by an external provider (further information will be provided at interview stage). 

The successful candidate will be tasked with, but not limited to: 

• Relocation service assistance and consulting: 

  • The relocation service will initiate with the creation of a request for housing form to be directed to ESA employee. This form helps understand the specific housing requirements of the employee, including preferences for the number of rooms, furniture availability, bathroom facilities, and desired neighbourhoods; 

  • Provision of a detailed list of available properties for the employee to consider and completed with relevant property details. 

• Legal aspect support:  

  • Ensure that all documentation is understood, alleviating any language barriers; 

  • Identifying and address any abusive clauses within the lease agreements; 

  • Provide clear explanations regarding any other particulars during the negotiations or contract arrangements. 

• Handle necessary arrangements for utility contracts, including gas, electricity, water, and telephone with internet access. If these services are not already included in the lease agreement, supplier shall ensure that they are established in a timely and efficient manner as per ad hoc needs; 

• Support through the entire process up to the signature of the lease contract;  

• Ensure that the property inventory is accurately verified, protecting the interests of the ESA employee; 

• Assist with setting up home, car, motorbike and/or life insurance policies; 

• If required, assist with opening a bank account and/or registration at the local council; 

• Ongoing phone support:  

  • Serve as a point of contact for addressing any questions or uncertainties that employees or their families may have. This includes inquiries related to the relocation process, services offered, or any other relevant matters; 

  • In case of emergencies, the help line shall be available to provide swift assistance and guidance. Whether it's a medical emergency, unexpected travel disruptions, or any other critical situation; 

  • The help line shall be equipped to ensure that services are tailored to evolving requirements. 

• Temporary accommodation support:  

  • Assist in locating suitable temporary accommodation, which can include options like hotels or Airbnb rentals. The aim is to secure a comfortable and convenient place for the employee to stay upon their arrival; 

  • Initiate lease negotiations for the employee's permanent residence while temporary accommodation is being arranged;

  • Assist in the preparation of an inventory, helping to ensure that the employee's possessions are appropriately accounted for during the relocation and are in the same condition upon arrival at the new residence. 

• School search:  

  • Provide a comprehensive overview of the various schooling options available in the area, including both public and international schools. Consider factors such as language of instruction (e.g. French, German, Spanish or the International Baccalaureate system) to match the preferences and needs of the relocating family; 

  • Arrange for tours of the school premises, allowing families to get a firsthand look at the educational institutions under consideration.  

ATG is dedicated to diversity and inclusion and is an equal opportunity employer. Regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, handicap or any other reason protected by relevant state or municipal legislation, we are pleased to consider all eligible candidates for employment. 

Please ensure that your CV clearly explains how you meet the essential requirements. If it doesn’t align completely with the essential criteria, it could result in rejection. 

• Completed secondary education and professional training in administrative and/or clerical support; 

• At least 4 years of relevant experience;  

• Strong knowledge of Harwell, Oxfordshire, and the surrounding areas, including local housing markets, amenities, and community resources; 

• Knowledge of the ESA and ECSAT general structure and functions; 

• Enthusiastic and willing to assist in all aspects of the relocation process, demonstrating a strong commitment to customer service; 

• Able to show courtesy and patience when interacting with ESA employees and their families; 

• Given the potential handling of sensitive and confidential information, personnel must exercise discretion and adhere to strict confidentiality standards. They should be prepared to sign an agreement confirming compliance with ESA's internal policies on data protection and confidentiality; 

• Candidates must be eligible to live and work in the UK;

• Fluency in English, both written and spoken;  

• Knowledge of other EU official languages is an asset.  

Please submit your application in English via the apply button below. Applications submitted in other languages will not be considered.