Lead Configuration and Data Manager - Space & Defense Programs (Budapest)

Company:

Our client is a fast-growing European company in the defense and space sector, acting as a prime contractor for both national and commercial satellite programs. They are developing a fully integrated space capability, encompassing satellite design and production, ground operations, data management, and end-to-end service delivery. Headquartered in Budapest, the company operates as part of a major publicly listed telecommunications group and collaborates with leading international space agencies such as ESA, NASA, JAXA, and DLR.

We are seeking an accomplished Configuration Manager to lead, manage and enforce CADM processes across complex, multi-stakeholder space and defense programs This is a high-impact role where you will ensure consistency, compliance, and traceability of configuration items and program data across the full system lifecycle — managing technical baselines, maintaining configuration control, and coordinating with internal teams, suppliers, and partners to meet all technical and contractual data requirements.

You would report directly to the Director of Satellite Programs.

The position is based in Budapest, and relocation is required. The company provides relocation support to assist with the transition including international schooling options if you have school-age children.

Key Responsibilities:

Configuration Management

• Define, implement, and maintain configuration management plans aligned with ECSS and AS9100 standards.
• Control and manage Configuration Items (CIs) across hardware, software, documentation, and operational systems.
• Establish and maintain configuration baselines (Functional, Allocated, Product) across project phases.
• Lead change control processes, including organizing and chairing Configuration Control Boards (CCBs), managing Engineering Change Requests (ECRs), and ensuring traceability of changes.
• Coordinate with engineering, quality, and project teams to ensure cross-functional adherence to configuration policies.

Data Management

• Oversee the technical data lifecycle, including document control, versioning, metadata tagging, and access governance.
• Ensure compliance with contractual data delivery requirements, including format, content, and timelines.
• Manage structured data repositories, digital archives, and controlled document workflows.
• Ensure robust data security and integrity, especially where sensitive or export-controlled information is involved (e.g., NATO/EU restrictions, ISO 27001).

Quality, Compliance & Audit

• Ensure CADM activities meet the requirements of standards such as:
• ECSS-E-ST-40 / ECSS-M-ST-40
• ISO 9001 / AS9100
• ISO 27001 (data security), ISO 14001 (environmental, if applicable)
• Support internal and external audits, including customer reviews and regulatory oversight.
• Collaborate with the Quality team to identify and resolve non-conformances and implement corrective/preventive actions (CAPA) related to CADM activities.

Supplier and Program Interface

• Interface with suppliers, subcontractors, and international partners to align on configuration/data practices.
• Ensure external parties comply with CADM requirements, including CDRL (Contract Documents Requirement List) documentation and format standards.
• Support systems engineering and program teams in the preparation and validation of milestone documentation (e.g., SRR, PDR, CDR, ORR).

Required Qualifications:

• MUST: Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Engineering, Information Management, Aerospace, or a related field.
• MUST: 7+ years of experience in Configuration and Data Management, with at least 3 years in aerospace, defense, or space programs.
• Strong understanding of configuration baselines, product structures, change control, and versioning systems.
• Hands-on experience with PLM/CAD/CM tools (e.g., Eclipse, Windchill, or equivalent).
• Knowledge of standards such as ECSS, ISO 9001, AS9100, and familiarity with project lifecycles (e.g., ESA, NASA, or MIL-STD-based programs).
• Excellent organizational and documentation skills, with attention to detail and audit-readiness.
• Fluent in English (written and spoken); any other European language is a plus
• Eligible for national security or NATO clearance based on project involvement (Managed by company)

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Configuration Manager (e.g., CMPIC, CMII, or equivalent).
• Familiarity with defense export control regimes (e.g., ITAR, EAR, national security restrictions).
• Experience working in international, multi-contractor environments on dual-use or classified systems.
• Exposure to Lean and Agile or hybrid project methodologies in regulated environments.

What We Offer You

• Engage in groundbreaking projects with NASA and ESA
• Contribute to building the Hungarian space industry
• Play a significant role in the company's growth and development
• Enjoy a flexible work environment
• Embrace a fun workplace with sports opportunities, board game nights, and many more team events
• Benefit from cafeteria, premium, and referral bonuses