Intern in the Space Transportation Infrastructure and Value Chain Dept., Europe Spaceport Division

Job Posting Organization:
The European Space Agency (ESA) is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to the exploration of space. Established in 1975, ESA has grown to include 22 member states and employs over 2,200 staff members. The agency's mission is to shape the development of Europe's space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world. ESA operates across multiple countries, with its headquarters located in Paris, France, and various facilities and centers across Europe, including the Guiana Space Centre in French Guiana, which serves as a key launch site for European space missions.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is situated within the Space Transportation Infrastructure and Value Chain Department, specifically focusing on climate resilience planning for Europe’s spaceport located in French Guiana. The intern will be involved in strategic planning efforts aimed at understanding and mitigating the impacts of climate change on the infrastructure and operations of the Guiana Space Centre (CSG). This role is crucial as the CSG is expected to face significant climate-related challenges in the coming decades, necessitating a proactive approach to ensure its long-term operational continuity and resilience. The intern will conduct literature reviews and data analyses to identify climate hazards, evaluate the sensitivity of key assets, and develop a climate risk map, contributing to the strategic planning for the future of the spaceport.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive literature review and data analysis to identify climate hazards that may impact the Guiana Space Centre in the medium to long term. This includes assessing projected changes in temperature, precipitation patterns, humidity, and potential weather events, as well as sea level rise. The intern will evaluate the sensitivity of key CSG assets and operations to these identified hazards and perform benchmarking with other spaceports to gather insights and best practices. Additionally, the intern will develop a climate risk map that visually represents the identified risks and vulnerabilities, aiding in strategic decision-making for future developments at the spaceport.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be university students, preferably at the master’s level, and must provide proof of enrollment at their university for the entire duration of the internship. A strong background in climatology, environmental science, geosciences, or urban planning is essential. The intern should possess strong analytical, research, and presentation skills, along with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. A genuine interest in space operations and climate adaptation policies is also required, as well as the ability to communicate effectively in both English and French.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to be enrolled in a university program, ideally at the master’s level, focusing on relevant fields such as climatology, environmental science, geosciences, or urban planning. This educational background will provide the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively contribute to the internship's objectives.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandated, candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of climate science and its implications for infrastructure and operations. Experience in research, data analysis, or related projects will be beneficial and may enhance the candidate's application.

Languages:
Proficiency in French at a native level is mandatory due to the need to interface with CSG partners. Additionally, excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are required. Knowledge of another ESA Member State language is considered an asset, which may further enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position and is open to nationals of specific European countries. The internship will take place at ESA Headquarters in Paris, France, and candidates must be available for the entire duration of the internship. The agency is committed to diversity and inclusiveness, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics. The recruitment process may include selection tests, and applicants must be eligible to access information subject to European or US export control regulations.