Intern in the Space Mechanisms

Intern in the Space Mechanisms

European Space Agency (ESA)

November 17, 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 Space Mechanisms
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 research, technology development, and international collaboration in space exploration. ESA's mission is to provide Europe with a space capability and to foster the development of space technology and applications for the benefit of its member states and the global community.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position in the Space Mechanisms section at the European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in Noordwijk, Netherlands, is designed for university students who are keen to gain practical experience in the field of space mechanisms. The role involves engaging in various tasks related to the design, development, and testing of space mechanisms, which are critical components in space missions. Interns will be expected to contribute to ongoing projects, participate in research and development activities, and support the evaluation and optimization of mechanisms used in space applications. The position offers a unique opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals in a cutting-edge technological environment, focusing on innovative solutions for space exploration challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: conducting critical reviews of design, analysis, simulation, and testing activities related to space mechanisms; assessing the feasibility of new design concepts; participating in the definition and implementation of research and development activities; engaging in project review processes; contributing to Concurrent Design Facility (CDF) studies; and supporting in-house research and technology investigations using laboratory facilities. Additionally, interns may be involved in using software packages such as MATLAB/Simulink®, CAD design tools, and specialized software for performance analysis, multi-body system modeling, and electromagnetic system simulation. They will also have the chance to work on the development, design, manufacturing, and testing of mechanisms, utilizing the hands-on laboratory facilities available at ESTEC.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be university students, preferably in their final or second-to-last year of a Master's level course. They should remain enrolled at their university for the entire duration of the internship. Specific competencies in mechanical and mechatronics engineering, particularly with a focus on tribology, ball bearings, gears, electrical motors, sensors, and smart materials, are highly desirable. Proficiency in engineering software tools is also beneficial, as it will aid in the execution of various tasks associated with the internship.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should be pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering, mechatronics, or a related field. A strong academic background in engineering principles, particularly those related to space mechanisms, is essential. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects of their field, as well as experience with relevant software tools used in engineering design and analysis.

Experience:
While prior work experience is not mandatory, any relevant internships or projects that demonstrate a candidate's ability to apply engineering concepts in practical settings will be considered an asset. Candidates should be able to showcase their skills through academic projects or previous internships that relate to mechanical design, testing, or research in engineering.

Languages:
The working languages of the European Space Agency are English and French. A good command of one of these languages is required for the internship. Knowledge of additional languages spoken in ESA member states would be advantageous, as it may facilitate communication within the diverse international team.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position and is open to nationals of ESA member states, as well as certain associate and cooperating states. The internship is expected to last for the duration of the academic semester or year, depending on the candidate's university schedule. 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.
Similar Jobs