You can now apply for the European Space Agency (ESA) Graduate Trainee Programme until the end of February! Thanks to Latvia's status as an Associate Member State, this opportunity is also open to graduates of master’s degree programmes in Latvia who are interested in engineering, science, IT, or business.
The ESA Graduate Trainee Programme is intended for students in their final year of a master’s degree or those who have recently completed a Master's in engineering, science, IT, or business.
As part of the programme, graduates can participate in cutting-edge projects alongside leading European scientists, engineers, and space specialists. The programme lasts for one year, with the possibility of being extended for an additional year. It is an invaluable opportunity to be part of the current space research in Europe.
Participants will become part of a diverse and supportive international team united by one common mission: the peaceful exploration and use of space for the benefit of humanity. Take this chance to become part of the future of space exploration!
First, you must explore the available ESA Graduate Trainee Programme vacancies to apply. Candidates should choose the field that interests them the most and best matches their academic experience. Since 2024, each candidate can submit up to three applications, so it is worth carefully reviewing all the available opportunities to ensure you don't miss the one most suitable for you. The first step is registering in the system and creating your candidate profile, including your CV and motivation letter. It is important to note that you must have completed your studies by the time the traineeship begins. The candidates must submit a master’s diploma no later than three months after starting their collaboration with ESA. In addition, candidates must be citizens of an ESA Member or Associate Member State, such as Latvia.
Through the Graduate Trainee Programme, participants will gain:
- Unique professional experience as part of a team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals from across Europe, working together on inspiring space projects internationally.
- Extensive experience that can open doors to a long-term career within Europe's space sector.
- A one-year contract (with the possibility of extending for an additional year) with 2.5 paid leave days per month.
- Excellent working conditions, including a salary exempt from national income tax in ESA Member States.
- Travel expenses are reimbursed at the start and end of the contract.
- Expatriation or installation allowance if you move from another country.
- Affiliation to ESA's comprehensive social security scheme.
We invite you to join two information sessions to learn more about the Graduate Trainee Programme. These sessions are free, open to all interested parties, and will be held online. On 5 February at 13:00, an information session will explain the different programmes available at ESA, focusing on the Graduate Trainee Programme. On 12 February at 17:00, former ESA Research Fellow Maggie Lieu and current Graduate Trainees will share their experiences working on ESA projects and give insights into the application process.
The first selection round and interviews with selected candidates will occur from March to May 2025, with decisions made in June 2025. The start date will be agreed upon between ESA and the candidate, typically September or October.
Visit the agency's website for more information about the ESA Graduate Trainee Programme. The Latvia Space portal provides additional details on the Latvian space sector.
