ESA Graduate Trainee in System Engineering for Future Space Transportation

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 encompass 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 in various domains including Earth observation, human spaceflight, exploration, and space transportation, and collaborates with numerous international partners to advance space science and technology.

Job Overview:
The ESA Graduate Trainee in System Engineering for Future Space Transportation will be part of the Future Space Transportation Preparation team within the Directorate of Space Transportation. This role is crucial in supporting the maturation and demonstration of key technologies and capabilities for future space transportation systems. The trainee will engage in synthesizing studies related to future space transportation systems, focusing on dual-use technologies that serve both civil and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security purposes. The position involves conducting market analyses, identifying trends and disruptive technologies, and preparing roadmaps that align with ESA's strategic vision for space transportation. The trainee will work autonomously while collaborating with various stakeholders, including industrial partners and different ESA teams, to ensure the successful integration of new technologies and concepts into the European space transportation sector. This role offers an exceptional opportunity to develop skills in Space Systems Engineering and Project Management while gaining a comprehensive understanding of the European space transportation landscape.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the ESA Graduate Trainee include:

• Conducting systems studies on future space transportation, focusing on dual-use technologies and their applications.
• Performing market studies to assess the SpaceTech sector and identify new concepts that can enhance European competitiveness in space transportation.
• Maturing key technologies related to avionics, propulsion, and modelling for future space transportation systems.
• Building demonstrators to validate technologies and demonstrate new capabilities in space transportation.
• Preparing and maintaining internal databases of European stakeholders who can contribute to the implementation of space transportation roadmaps.
• Coordinating with various ESA teams on ongoing projects, including organizing workshops and public communications.
• Reporting progress to the assigned tutor and adjusting priorities based on project needs.
• Engaging in collaborative efforts with international stakeholders and contributing to the overall success of the team.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, demonstrating the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment. A background in aerospace engineering or a related technical field is essential, with a focus on dual-use applications being highly desirable. The ability to synthesize complex information and present it clearly is crucial, as is the capacity to work independently and as part of a team. Previous experience in international teams or projects will be considered an asset, as will familiarity with the security and defense domain.

Educational Background:
Applicants should have recently completed or be in the final year of a master's degree in a technical or scientific discipline, particularly in aerospace engineering or a closely related field. A solid understanding of dual-use applications in space transportation is preferred, along with a strong academic record that reflects the candidate's capabilities in relevant subjects.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant experience gained through internships, project work, or extracurricular activities. Experience in the space sector or related fields, particularly in roles that involve systems engineering or project management, will be advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate a proactive approach to learning and development, with a willingness to engage in new challenges and responsibilities.

Languages:
Fluency in English or French is mandatory, as these are the working languages of the Agency. Knowledge of another language from an ESA Member State is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a diverse environment. Candidates must be nationals of one of the ESA Member States or associated countries to be eligible for this position.

Additional Notes:
The position is a graduate trainee appointment, which typically lasts for a fixed term. The role is full-time and based at ESA Headquarters in Paris, France. 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. Candidates must be eligible to access information subject to European or US export control regulations. Successful candidates will undergo basic screening before appointment, and the recruitment process may include selection tests.