Intern in the Automation and Robotics Section

Intern in the Automation and Robotics Section

European Space Agency (ESA)

November 18, 2024December 1, 2024NoordwijkNetherlands
European Space Agency (ESA) About
The European Space Agency About is an intergovernmental organisation of 22 member states dedicated to the exploration of space. Established in 1975 and headquartered in Paris, ESA has more than 2000 staff worldwide. The European Space Agency (ESA) is Europe’s gateway to space. Its 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's space flight programme includes human spaceflight (mainly through participation in the International Space Station program); the launch and operation of unmanned exploration missions to other planets and the Moon; Earth observation, science and telecommunication; designing launch vehicles; and maintaining a major spaceport, the Guiana Space Centre at Kourou, French Guiana.
Job Description

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Intern in the Automation and Robotics Section
Location: Noordwijk
Country: Netherlands
Deadline Date: 30 November 2024 23:59 CET/CEST

Job Details

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 operates across multiple countries, focusing on various aspects of space exploration, technology development, and scientific research. ESA's mission is to provide Europe with a space capability and to foster international cooperation in space exploration and research.

Job Overview:
The internship opportunity is situated within the Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality at the European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in Noordwijk, Netherlands. The intern will support the Automation and Robotics section, specifically within the Automation and Robotics Laboratories (ARL). The role involves engaging with various projects related to space automation and robotics, including the design and development of robotic systems for planetary exploration, human-robot interaction, and orbital robotics. The intern will be expected to contribute to research and development activities, support industrial collaborations, and assist in the preparation and execution of laboratory tests. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies in the field of space robotics and automation, providing valuable experience in a dynamic and innovative environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a range of duties, including:
  • Supporting industrial activities and preparing facilities for third-party tests, ensuring that all necessary support is provided by section personnel.
  • Conducting independent research and development on novel robotics and autonomous systems, maintaining up-to-date knowledge in the field, and engaging in concept design, prototyping, and testing to validate ideas.
  • Collaborating with third-party companies for hardware development and procurement, actively participating in discussions to explore concepts and trade-off solutions for equipment or software procurement.
  • Supporting relevant R&D activities or CDF studies as required, participating in reviews and contributing to the supervision of industrial R&D activities related to space robotics.
  • Engaging in the design and development of rovers for planetary exploration, contributing to the Human Interaction Laboratory, and participating in activities related to Active Debris Removal and In-Orbit Servicing in the Orbital Robotics Laboratory.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be university students, preferably in their final or second-to-last year of a Master’s level course. They must remain enrolled at their university for the entire duration of the internship. A good knowledge of English or French is required, and knowledge of another Member State language would be considered an asset. Additionally, candidates should have a background in prototyping robot systems, which is advantageous for this role.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to be enrolled in a university program, ideally pursuing a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as robotics, engineering, or computer science. The internship is designed for students who are in their final or second-to-last year of study, ensuring that they have a solid foundation of knowledge and skills applicable to the tasks they will undertake during the internship.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandatory, candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in robotics and automation. Experience in prototyping robotic systems is considered an asset, as it aligns with the responsibilities of the internship. The role is designed for students, so practical experience in the field may be limited, but any relevant projects or coursework will be beneficial.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is either English or French, with a good command of one being essential. Knowledge of an additional language from another ESA Member State is considered a valuable asset, enhancing communication and collaboration within the diverse environment of the agency.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position, and candidates must be nationals of one of the ESA member states or associated countries. The closing date for applications is 30 November 2024 at 23:59 CET/CEST. ESA is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates, including women and individuals with disabilities. The agency provides necessary support to accommodate individuals with disabilities in the workplace.
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