Senior Space Technology \& Lunar Resources Specialist

The Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI) is expanding its activities in space technologies, in-situ resource utilization (ISRU), planetary geotechnics, and lunar infrastructure. We are seeking an experienced and entrepreneurial senior professional to help expand our activities, identify new opportunities, and strengthen our position as we continue to grow our space-related activities.

This is a unique opportunity to shape a growing space program within one of the world's leading geoscience and engineering research organizations. About the Role

NGI has established a strong foundation in lunar geotechnics, in-situ resource and regolith characterization, and regolith-structure interactions for future lunar and planetary missions. We collaborate with space agencies, industry and innovation stakeholders, and research institutions across Europe and internationally.

We are now looking for a senior space professional who can help expand these activities, develop new collaborations, and bring expertise from other parts of the space sector into NGI.

The successful candidate will combine technical credibility with long-term vision, business development skills, and a passion for building new initiatives. Key Responsibilities

Contribute to the development of NGI's long-term strategy and future activities in space technologies. Identify and develop new opportunities in areas such as:

• Lunar and planetary surface operations

• In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU)

• Space resources and mining

• Space infrastructure and construction

• Robotics and autonomous systems for extreme environments

• Space sustainability and exploration technologies

• Build relationships with ESA, national space agencies, industry partners, startups, and international research organizations.

• Lead proposal development and secure funding from European and international programs.

• Develop new projects and strategic partnerships that leverage NGI's expertise in geoscience, geotechnics, and engineering.

• Mentor and help grow NGI's multidisciplinary space team.

• Represent NGI at international conferences, workshops, and industry forums.

Qualifications

We are looking for a candidate with:

• 10+ years experience in the space sector, either in industry, agencies, research organizations, or innovative startups.

• Demonstrated success in developing programs, partnerships, or business opportunities within the space ecosystem.

• Strong understanding of one or more relevant fields such as exploration systems, ISRU, space resources, robotics, planetary science, infrastructure, or mission development.

• Experience securing and managing externally funded projects.

• Excellent English communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

• A collaborative mindset and enthusiasm for building something new.

A background in geotechnics is not required. We are particularly interested in candidates who can bring experience and networks from adjacent areas of the space sector and help identify opportunities where NGI's expertise can create unique value. Why Join NGI?

• At NGI, you will have the opportunity to help create a world-leading capability at the intersection of geoscience and space exploration.

• You will work alongside internationally recognized experts in geotechnics, engineering geology, geophysics, and environmental sciences, while helping shape technologies and infrastructure that can support humanity's return to the Moon and future exploration beyond Earth.

• This role offers significant freedom to develop new initiatives, build partnerships, and influence the strategic direction of a growing space program.

• Join us in helping build the foundations for the next generation of exploration and resource utilization beyond Earth.

• Competitive compensation and benefits, including a profit-sharing arrangement, solid pension and insurance schemes, private health insurance, and a strong commitment to work-life balance.

• Access to brand new state-of-the-art facilities at NGIs headquarter Campus Ullevål at the heart of Oslo Science City.

The social environment at NGI

We are proud of a diverse and active social environment at NGI. We organize various activities such as climbing and surfing trips, shuffleboard tournaments, padel, cageball, yoga, and pottery courses, and our annual Christmas revue with its own live band. We also arrange annual cabin/ski trips in the autumn and winter, and offer company cabins that employees can rent.

We will begin processing applications 16 August 2026.

We are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment. As part of our recruitment process, please note that background checks and vulnerability assessment interviews may be conducted on relevant candidates. Those will only be done with the candidate’s consent.