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Position Title: Intern in the Technology Department on Advanced Data Handling & Processing Hardware
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 in Europe and collaborates with various international partners. Its mission encompasses a wide range of activities, including Earth observation, human spaceflight, and planetary exploration, with a commitment to advancing space science and technology for the benefit of humanity.

Job Overview:
The Internship Position is located at the European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in Noordwijk, Netherlands, within the Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality. The intern will work under the direct authority of the Head of the Electrical Department, specifically within the Avionics & EEE Division. This division is responsible for all aspects related to avionics, data systems, microelectronics, flight software, and EEE components. The intern will engage in technology and product development, support standardization efforts, and contribute to the definition of avionics architecture. The role involves hands-on experience with advanced data handling architectures, CubeSat systems, and on-board processing, providing a comprehensive understanding of the integration and validation of hardware and software modules in space systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will have the opportunity to choose from several topics, including Advanced Data Handling Architecture, CubeSat Flatsat, and On-Board Processing and AI Facility. Responsibilities may include:

• For Advanced Data Handling Architecture: Integrating and validating hardware and software modules for the ADHA Flatsat, designing printed circuit boards (PCBs), and developing test software.
• For CubeSat Flatsat: Managing the CubeSat FlatSat, developing a Mission Operations Center, integrating new payloads, and creating software components for the On-Board Computer.
• For On-Board Processing and AI Facility: Integrating edge processing hardware, benchmarking on-board processing algorithms, and developing new payload Data Processing algorithms. The intern will also be responsible for maintaining documentation and ensuring the smooth operation of the facilities.

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 is considered an asset. Additionally, familiarity with microcontroller/microprocessor embedded systems, programming languages such as C/C++, and interfaces used in embedded systems will be beneficial.

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 engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline. The internship is designed for students who are nearing the completion of their studies, ensuring that they can apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting.

Experience:
While prior experience is not explicitly required, candidates with practical knowledge related to embedded systems, Software Development, and hardware integration will have an advantage. Experience in deploying Machine Learning models on embedded devices or familiarity with space-related technologies will also be beneficial.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English or French, with a good command of one of these languages required. Knowledge of additional languages from ESA member states is considered a valuable asset, enhancing communication and collaboration within the diverse workforce.

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.