Intern in the Future Space Transportation Preparation Department - Project Support

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 in multiple countries across Europe and collaborates with various international partners to advance space science and technology.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position in the Future Space Transportation Preparation Department is designed for university students who are eager to gain hands-on experience in the field of space transportation systems. The intern will provide project support to the Future Launchers Preparatory Programme (FLPP), which is responsible for the maturation of technologies and capabilities necessary for future space transportation. The role involves engaging with various projects, including the FIRST! Propulsion Initiative and the THRUST! Initiative, where the intern will assist in project management tasks, procurement processes, and the organization of events. The intern will also be involved in maintaining databases, conducting technical analyses, and supporting knowledge management processes within the FLPP. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the advancement of space transportation technologies and to work alongside experts in the field.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Supporting the FIRST! Propulsion Initiative by managing ongoing projects and assisting in the preparation of procurement documents.
• Organizing internal meetings, evaluating proposals, and supporting negotiations and project kick-offs.
• Assisting with the THRUST! Initiative, including finalizing procurement processes and organizing necessary meetings.
• Supporting the Future Access to Space Club by organizing events and maintaining a contact database.
• Identifying best practices for improving procurement actions within the FLPP.
• Conducting technical analyses of proposals with a focus on liquid propulsion technologies.
• Managing and updating FLPP databases related to technology evaluation and European space companies.
• Participating in launcher technology meetings and workshops to assess potential technologies and providers.
• Contributing to the standardization and optimization of project management processes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be university students, preferably in their final or second-to-last year of a Master's level course. They should demonstrate a strong interest in space transportation and related technologies. A good knowledge of English or French is required, and knowledge of another ESA Member State language is considered an asset. Additionally, candidates should have a background in space, specifically in propulsion and space transportation vehicles, as well as familiarity with Technology Readiness Levels and project life cycles.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should be enrolled in a university program at the Master's level, with a focus on engineering, aerospace, or a related field. It is essential that the candidate can prove their enrollment for the entire duration of the internship, ensuring that they can fully engage with the responsibilities of the position.

Experience:
While prior professional experience is not mandatory, any relevant internships or academic projects related to space transportation, propulsion, or project management will be advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate a proactive approach to learning and a strong desire to contribute to the field of space exploration.

Languages:
Fluency in English or French is mandatory, as these are the working languages of the Agency. Knowledge of additional languages spoken in ESA member states is a plus and may enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position based at ESA Headquarters in Paris, France. The contract duration aligns with the internship period, and candidates must be nationals of one of the specified ESA member states. 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. Compensation details and benefits will be provided during the recruitment process.