If you’re interested in science, European cooperation, international organisations, or security and defence, join us to discover career opportunities at the European Space Agency (ESA) and explore how your skills could contribute to Europe’s space ambitions.
1. Who can apply?
Students and graduates from ESA Member States, Associate Members, European Cooperating States, and Canada (as a Cooperating State) may be eligible for internships and ESA Graduate Trainee positions.
The 31 eligible countries are: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
2. ESA is growing
ESA’s budget has increased from €14.4 billion in 2019 to €22.3 billion in 2025, reflecting growing investment in Europe’s space ambitions and creating an exciting context in which to explore career opportunities at the agency.
3. Internships: applications open in November
ESA’s internship programme offers opportunities for current university students to gain hands-on experience at the agency. The next application window is expected to run from 1 to 30 November, with more than 200 internship opportunities published.
4. Graduate Trainee positions: February 2027
ESA’s Graduate Trainee programme offers recent graduates the opportunity to launch their careers in the space sector. The next application period is expected to run from 1 to 28 February 2027.
5. Junior Professional opportunities: April/May 2027
For candidates with a few years of professional experience, ESA’s Junior Professional opportunities offer another potential entry point. The next positions are expected to be published in April or May 2027.