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Position Title: Intern in the Sentinels Radar Imaging Missions Operations Unit
Location: Darmstadt
Country: Germany
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 various countries in Europe and collaborates with numerous international partners. ESA's mission is to provide Europe with a space capability and to foster the development of space technologies for the benefit of society and the economy. The agency is involved in a wide range of activities, including Earth observation, human spaceflight, and planetary exploration, and is committed to promoting scientific research and technological innovation in the field of space.

Job Overview:
This Internship opportunity is situated within the Directorate of Operations at the European Space Operations Centre (ESOC) in Darmstadt, Germany. The intern will focus on the Sentinel-1 Flight Operations Optimisation project, which is part of the Copernicus Earth Observation programme. The Sentinel-1 mission plays a crucial role in monitoring environmental changes and supporting Disaster Response efforts. The intern will gain hands-on experience with ground systems and operations concepts used to control a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) mission. This role requires a solid understanding of spacecraft operations and coding, as the intern will work closely with operators to identify needs and develop small software tools to enhance operational efficiency. The internship will provide a unique opportunity to contribute to the ongoing success of the Sentinel missions while gaining valuable experience in spaceflight operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for various tasks related to the Sentinel-1 mission, including configuring and testing new software products designed for mission operations, developing small, self-contained helper tools to support operations, and writing scripts that integrate existing tools to improve automation and operational efficiency. The intern will also collaborate with mission operators to understand their needs and ensure that the solutions developed are effective and user-friendly. Additionally, the intern may have the opportunity to choose a specific project from a list of ideas provided by the team, allowing for a tailored experience that aligns with their interests and skills.

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. A solid understanding of spacecraft operations, particularly in Low Earth Orbit, is advantageous. Familiarity with programming languages such as Python and experience with Web-based Applications, especially their integration with APIs and existing data sources, would be beneficial. Good knowledge of English or French is required, and knowledge of another Member State language is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should be a university student, preferably pursuing a Master's degree in a relevant field such as aerospace engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline. The candidate must be in their final or second-to-last year of study and must remain enrolled at their university throughout the internship period.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandatory, candidates with knowledge or background in spacecraft operations, particularly in Low Earth Orbit, will have an advantage. Experience with programming and Software Development, especially in relation to mission operations, will also be beneficial for this role.

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, while knowledge of another Member State language would be an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively within the diverse ESA environment.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position and is open to applicants from specific member states of the European Space Agency. The agency is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates, including women and individuals with disabilities. The internship will provide a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic environment at the forefront of space operations, contributing to significant missions that impact society and the environment. The deadline for applications is set for 30 November 2024, and candidates must be eligible to access technology and hardware subject to European and US export control regulations.