A unique career opportunity in the European space sector is now open exclusively to candidates from Latvia. The European Space Agency (ESA) National Graduate Trainee (NGT) Programme is currently accepting applications for two positions, offering recent graduates and final year Master’s students the chance to gain hands-on experience in a leading international space organisation.
Unlike many ESA opportunities that are highly competitive across all Member States, these National Graduate Traineeships are open only to Latvian applicants. This significantly increases the chances of Latvian candidates succeeding and reflects Latvia’s active participation and collaboration with ESA as an Associate Member State.
“This initiative is aimed at creating opportunities for young Latvian professionals to gain experience within the European Space Agency, while at the same time strengthening Latvia’s long-term capacity in the space sector,” says Lana Frančeska Dreimane, Deputy State Secretary for Higher Education, Science and State Language at the Ministry of Education and Science of Latvia. “By supporting the next generation of specialists, we are investing in the future development of Latvia’s space industry, research and international cooperation.”
Why this opportunity matters
Through the NGT Programme, selected candidates will spend one year working within ESA (with the possibility of extension), gaining practical experience in fields such as space science, Earth observation, navigation, telecommunications, or related disciplines. Trainees work under the supervision of experienced tutors and become part of an international, multidisciplinary environment at the forefront of space innovation.
The programme offers:
Valuable professional experience in ESA
A competitive, tax-exempt salary
Reimbursed travel and relocation support
Access to ESA’s social security scheme
Mentorship and structured learning in a multicultural environment
Latvia’s objective is not only to provide traineeships but to build a strong community of professionals with ESA experience who can contribute to the development of Latvia’s space industry, research capacity, and international cooperation in the future. This is why it has been particularly important to secure positions specifically dedicated to Latvian candidates.
This is an excellent stepping stone for a career in the European space sector, research institutions, or high-level technology industries. These opportunities are directly linked to Latvia’s active involvement in ESA programmes, demonstrating the tangible benefits of this engagement for young professionals.
Who can apply
The programme is open to:
Students in the final year of a Master’s degree
Recent graduates (Master’s level)
Latvian nationals (as specified in the vacancies)
Application deadline
There are currently two open positions for Latvian candidates, with the application deadline set for: 19 June.
Applications must be submitted through ESA’s official careers portal.
We strongly encourage eligible students to explore these vacancies and apply. With competition limited to national candidates, this is a rare and highly accessible entry point into ESA.
We also invite professors, academic staff, and families to share this opportunity with students who may benefit.
