At a Glance
- Tasks: Contribute to cutting-edge projects in AI, robotics, and satellite communications.
- Company: Join ESA, a leader in space technology and innovation.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, work with experts, and develop valuable skills.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive environment with opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Be part of revolutionising global connectivity and shaping the future of communication.
- Qualifications: Must be a university student with a passion for technology and innovation.
The predicted salary is between 22500 - 27500 £ per year.
Location: ECSAT, Harwell, United Kingdom
Due to the location of ECSAT and current UK legislation, only UK citizens, students enrolled in a UK university, or those with pre-settled status (right to study) in the UK are eligible to apply for this internship.
Our team and mission: ESA’s Space for 5G/6G & Sustainable Connectivity strategic programme line is advancing 5G and 6G technologies to support Europe’s digital transformation through the integration of satellite and terrestrial communication networks. This convergence of terrestrial (TN) and non-terrestrial networks (NTN) is expected to revolutionise how people live, work and communicate by enhancing mobile coverage, smart mobility, security and network resilience. The programme aims to promote the standardisation of seamless global connectivity for various industries and applications, including telemedicine, autonomous vehicles, aviation and maritime services.
As an intern, you will work in a dynamic and multidisciplinary environment at ESA's European Centre for Space Applications and Telecommunications (ECSAT) in the United Kingdom. You will engage with experts in satellite communications, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and emerging digital technologies through activities associated with the AI Hub and the 5G/6G Hub. These centres provide facilities for innovation, experimentation and demonstration activities aimed at enabling seamless global connectivity.
Field(s) of activity for the internship: As an intern, you will contribute to activities at the forefront of future communication networks, satellite communications, AI and robotics, supporting technical studies, experiments and collaborative projects that explore how integrated satellite and terrestrial networks can enable intelligent systems and new digital services. Depending on your interests and background, your activities may include:
- supporting technical studies on future communication network architectures, services and applications;
- developing and evaluating AI models for communication systems and network management;
- experimenting with mixed reality technologies, robotics and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) as part of use-case development;
- assisting with the preparation, execution and analysis of trials and technology demonstrations;
- contributing to the development and operation of the AI Hub and the 5G/6G Hub;
- supporting workshops, demonstrations and engagement activities involving industry and academic partners.
You will also have the flexibility to define and pursue your own research project within the team's areas of activity. Through this internship, you will gain practical experience in satellite-enabled connectivity, future networks and AI, while developing skills in research, experimentation, systems engineering and stakeholder engagement in an international and multidisciplinary environment.
Behavioural competencies: Result Orientation, Operational Efficiency, Fostering Cooperation, Relationship Management, Continuous Improvement, Forward Thinking.
Education: You must be a university student, preferably in your final or second-to-last year of university course at Master's level. In addition, you must be able to prove that you will be enrolled at your university for the entire duration of the internship.
Additional requirements: The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these is required. Knowledge of another ESA Member State language is an asset. During the interview, your motivation for applying to this role will be explored. You should have good interpersonal and communication skills and should be able to work in a multicultural environment, both independently and as part of a team.
Knowledge and background in the following areas is an asset:
- satellite and terrestrial communication networks, including 5G and 6G;
- network modelling, simulation, experimentation or testbeds;
- AI/ML applied to communication systems, network management, or autonomous networks;
- immersive technologies (AR, VR and XR), robotics and UAVs;
- programming and software development, particularly in Python;
- familiarity with AI and data analysis frameworks;
- experience in conducting technical research projects;
- previous experience working in international teams.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusiveness: ESA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. We therefore welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics. At the Agency we value diversity, and we welcome people with disabilities. Whenever possible, we seek to accommodate individuals with disabilities by providing the necessary support at the workplace. The Human Resources Department can also provide assistance during the recruitment process.
Important Information and Disclaimer: During the recruitment process, the Agency may request applicants to undergo selection tests. Applicants must be eligible to access information, technology, and hardware which is subject to European or US export control and sanctions regulations. The information published on ESA’s careers website regarding internship conditions is correct at the time of publication. It is not intended to be exhaustive and may not address all questions you would have.
Nationality: Please note that applications are only considered from nationals of one of the following States: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
Intern in the Commercial Partnerships Department - AI and Robotics - Space for 5G/6G employer: EUROPEAN SPACE AGENCY
As an employer, ESA offers a unique opportunity for recent Master’s graduates to gain hands-on experience in the cutting-edge field of Advanced Materials and Process Engineering. Located at ECSAT in Harwell, UK, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that values diversity and inclusiveness, alongside access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources. With a strong emphasis on professional development and innovative projects, ESA is committed to fostering growth and providing meaningful contributions to the future of space exploration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Intern in the Commercial Partnerships Department - AI and Robotics - Space for 5G/6G
✨Get Involved in Engineering Societies
Join local engineering societies or student chapters; they often have networking events and workshops tailored for internship seekers. It's a great way to meet professionals and get insider tips on which companies, like EUROPEAN SPACE AGENCY, are hiring!
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Make the most of your university's career fairs! These events often feature companies looking specifically for interns, and they give us the chance to make a direct impression on recruiters from places like EUROPEAN SPACE AGENCY. Bring your best elevator pitch and showcase your enthusiasm!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Make sure to create a portfolio or a personal website showcasing any relevant projects you’ve worked on, whether it's uni assignments or personal projects. This visual representation will help you stand out during interviews or casual chats with engineers from EUROPEAN SPACE AGENCY!
✨Leverage Internships to Build Skills
Don't just aim for any internship; seek out those that allow you to learn and grow. Even roles at startups can offer hands-on experience that's invaluable. We should focus on companies like EUROPEAN SPACE AGENCY that may have rotational internship programmes, providing us with diverse experiences.
We think you need these skills to ace Intern in the Commercial Partnerships Department - AI and Robotics - Space for 5G/6G
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:In the engineering world, we want to see your technical skills front and centre. When you’re crafting your CV, highlight any relevant coursework, projects, or software you’ve used. If you’ve got experience with CAD programs or any engineering software, make sure to mention that to grab our attention!
Tailor Your Motivation in the Cover Letter:This internship is all about learning and growth, so let us know why you're excited about this opportunity at EUROPEAN SPACE AGENCY. Your cover letter should reflect your passion for engineering and willingness to learn — share what makes us the perfect place for you to dip your toes into the industry!
Include Relevant Academic Projects:If you've completed any engineering projects, whether in class or on your own time, showcase those in your application. We love to see practical experience, even if it’s from school! Detail what you did, what techniques you used, and any challenges you faced. This shows us you can apply your knowledge in real-world situations.
Keep it Clear and Concise:When you're applying for an internship, we know it can be tempting to cram every detail into your CV or cover letter. But keep it clear and to the point! One page for your CV is usually enough — highlight the most relevant bits and make sure your passion for engineering shines through without any fluff.
How to prepare for a job interview at EUROPEAN SPACE AGENCY
✨Brush Up on Technical Fundamentals
For an engineering internship like the one at EUROPEAN SPACE AGENCY, it’s essential to have a solid grasp of core principles. Expect technical questions that test your understanding of basic engineering concepts. We recommend revising key topics relevant to the role and finding some example problems to solve ahead of time.
✨Show Your Passion for Engineering
During the interview, we should communicate our enthusiasm for engineering and the specific area you're applying to. Share any projects, coursework, or experiences that fuelled your interest. Companies like EUROPEAN SPACE AGENCY often look for candidates who not only have the skills but also a genuine passion for the field.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Be ready for situational questions that probe your problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities. You might be asked how you would approach a specific engineering challenge or design a solution to a hypothetical problem relevant to the industry. Think through a few scenarios before going in, as these can really demonstrate your thought process.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
Internships often involve collaboration, so we should be prepared to discuss our experiences working in teams. Have examples ready where you've worked as part of a group on projects, whether in a school setting or during co-curricular activities. This will show EUROPEAN SPACE AGENCY that we understand the importance of collaboration in engineering.
