Apply now to ESA's Junior Professional Programme

Author
The European Space Agency

July 9, 2026

Are you passionate about space and looking to build a long-term career in the European space sector? Do you have less than three years of professional experience and a Master’s degree? The European Space Agency is offering a unique opportunity through its Junior Professional Programme (JPP), designed to cultivate the next generation of space professionals. If you dream of contributing to cutting-edge space missions and working in an international, dynamic environment, this programme is your gateway to an exciting future at ESA. Apply now to join us as a Junior Professional! 

090726_EKA kosmosa aģentūra.jpg
Illustrative image from esa.int 

The Junior Professional Programme (JPP) is a structured career-entry path designed for early-career professionals who aspire to work at ESA for the long-term. Junior Professionals join us for an initial period of four years, during which they gain in-depth experience, develop their technical and (project) managerial skills and establish themselves as integral members of the ESA team.

Through a tailored development plan, and depending on your domain of specialisation, you will contribute to ESA activities, rotating across different departments and even engaging with external partners in the space sector. You will benefit from dedicated mentoring and professional training to accelerate your career growth.

To be eligible for the JPP, you must:

  • Hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field.
  • Have less than three years of professional experience.
  • Be a citizen of an ESA Member State, Associate Member or Canada as a Cooperating State (the full list of eligible nationalities is stated in each vacancy).
  • Have a strong motivation to work at ESA in the long-term. 

In 2026, vacancies have been announced in various fields, including artificial intelligence and data science, Earth observation, digital manufacturing, market analysis, space transportation and lunar exploration technologies.

Applications are submitted through the ESA career portal until 28 July, by submitting a CV and a motivation letter.

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