OPPORTUNITY: Launch Your Career with ESA’s Junior Professional Programme

Author
The European Space Agency

May 28, 2025

he European Space Agency (ESA) invite early-career professionals to apply for its Junior Professional Programme (JPP)—a unique opportunity to become part of Europe’s future in space.

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ESA photo archive

Designed for talented individuals with a Master’s degree and two to three years of professional experience, the JPP offers a four-year staff contract with the potential for a permanent position upon completion. Each year, 15 new Junior Professionals will join ESA through this programme, working at the heart of one of the world’s leading space organisations.

The call for applications is open now and will close on 5 June 2025.

A Unique Opportunity to Grow

Junior Professionals at ESA work alongside scientists, engineers, and business experts from across Europe, contributing to inspiring space missions in a multicultural, international setting. During the four-year programme, participants benefit from a tailored development plan that includes:

  • Rotational assignments across ESA departments or external partners to broaden expertise;
  • Training in technical and key professional skills, matched to career goals;
  • Mentoring by senior ESA staff.
In addition to professional growth, ESA offers competitive employment conditions, including:
  • An attractive salary exempt from national income tax in ESA Member States;
  • Relocation support, travel reimbursements, and a comprehensive social security scheme;
  • Generous leave entitlements, including 2.5 days per month, 12 public holidays, and additional home leave for expatriates.
Are You Eligible?

To apply, you must:

  • Hold a relevant Master’s degree;
  • Have 2–3 years of relevant professional experience (including time in ESA Graduate Trainee, National Trainee, or Research Fellow programmes);
  • Be a citizen of an ESA Member State, Associate Member, including Latvia, or Canada (as a Cooperating State).

Eligibility questions are built into the online application form.

How to Apply
  1. Visit our vacancies page and select the Junior Professional position that best matches your background and interests.
  2. Create your candidate profile and upload your CV and motivation letter.
  3. Submit your application before 5 June 2025.

You can track your application status through your online profile.

For detailed guidance, please consult the JPP FAQ.

Your journey to space starts here: apply by 5 June 2025!

 

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