Intern in the Legal Services Department - Institutional Law Division

Job Posting Organization:
The European Space Agency (ESA) is an international organization established to serve as the European gateway to space. Its mission is to expand the boundaries of discovery and exploration while providing space applications that benefit citizens on Earth. ESA was founded in 1975 and has grown to include 22 member states, employing over 2,200 staff members across various locations. The agency operates in multiple countries, focusing on advancing space science and technology, fostering international cooperation, and promoting the peaceful use of outer space.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position within the Legal Services Department, specifically in the Institutional Law Division, is designed for university students who are keen to gain practical experience in the field of institutional law. The intern will support the division by engaging in legal matters related to the governance and functioning of the European Space Agency. This includes understanding the institutional framework and decision-making procedures of ESA, as well as the interpretation and application of the agency's internal rules and policies. The intern will also be involved in legal research, analysis, and drafting, which will enhance their skills in these areas. The role offers a unique opportunity to work in a multicultural environment alongside skilled legal professionals, contributing to the agency's mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
As an intern, you will be tasked with conducting legal research and analysis on public international law, including European Union law and relevant national laws. You will prepare and contribute to the drafting, review, and processing of various legal instruments such as agreements and memoranda. Additionally, you will monitor and review developments in international law, including the evolution of legal doctrine and its practical application within international organizations. Your contributions will support the daily operations of the Legal Services Department and assist legal officers in their work, thereby gaining hands-on experience in the legal field.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be university students, preferably in their final or second-to-last year of a Master's level course. It is essential to demonstrate that you will be enrolled at your university for the entire duration of the internship. A good knowledge of English or French is required, and familiarity with another ESA Member State language is considered an asset. Knowledge and background in public international law, including European Union law and relevant national laws, is advantageous and should be evidenced through both academic study and practical experience.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should be pursuing a degree in law, with a focus on public international law or European law. The internship is particularly suited for those in their final or penultimate year of a Master's program, as this level of education provides the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of institutional law and the legal frameworks within which the European Space Agency operates.

Experience:
While prior professional experience is not mandatory, any relevant internships or academic projects that demonstrate knowledge of public international law, European Union law, or the legal systems of ESA Member States will be beneficial. The agency values candidates who can showcase their understanding of legal principles and their application in an international context.

Languages:
The working languages of the European Space Agency are English and French. A good command of one of these languages is mandatory for the position, while knowledge of an additional language from an ESA Member State is considered a valuable asset. This linguistic proficiency will facilitate effective communication within the multicultural environment of the agency.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position based at ESA Headquarters in Paris, France. The duration of the internship aligns with the academic calendar, and candidates must be able to commit for the entire period. The agency is committed to diversity, equity, 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 the agency provides support for individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process.