Agency
16/03/2026
232 views
1 likes
With more than 400 positions to be published in 2026, the European Space Agency has launched a recruitment drive to support ESA’s programmes, missions and strategic initiatives following the 2025 Ministerial Council in Bremen. To help make these projects a reality, we will be recruiting many new colleagues in engineering and science, as well as support services! Your next big opportunity could be here, so read on to find out more. You can also set up a job alert to be the first one to know when opportunities are published.
ESA DG Josef Aschbacher at the new ESA Headquarters in Paris
A word from ESA’s DG, Josef Aschbacher
“The success of the 2025 Ministerial Council in Bremen has emphasised Europe’s commitment towards space and the trust placed in ESA to deliver space solutions for our citizens. With the support given by our Member States to develop bold space missions, ESA will be recruiting more than 400 new colleagues in 2026 in a wide range of disciplines. ESA has delivered outstanding space missions over the last 50 years, thanks to the dedication and expertise of our workforce, and we want to deliver even more over the next 50. This year will mark a decisive step towards strengthening ESA’s talent constellation that will shape tomorrow’s missions and the future of space in Europe. So if you are inspired to join an international team of professionals who push scientific boundaries, watch over our planet, develop and launch inspiring space projects for the benefit of everyone, don’t hesitate and apply! Together, we go beyond.”
Ildiko Raczne Szoke, Head of the Human Resources Department
A word from Ildikó Ráczné Szőke, Head of the HR Department
“At ESA, our missions are powered by the unique expertise of our people — whether they have always been passionate about space or have discovered a love for it along the way. In 2026, we will be recruiting many skilled professionals in engineering, science, operations, IT and other supporting functions. We recruit… not only astronauts! Launching your career at ESA starts with sending us your application. So if a vacancy matches your interest and experience, dare to apply! We look forward to hearing from you.”
ESA welcomes talent at every stage of their career — from recent graduates to seasoned professionals with up to 20 years of experience or more. Check our careers website to learn more about our opportunities.
At ESA, we support our people from their first day through to retirement. Our competitive employment package includes flexible working conditions, a broad range of on-site services and facilities to support you, learning and development opportunities to propel your career forwards… Not to mention that joining ESA will give you the opportunity to contribute to major space projects with a global impact and deliver outstanding space solutions for Europe. All of this makes us a unique place to work!
Read more about the top five reasons you should consider joining us aboard.
Not sure where to start? Follow our careers flowchart to find your path to space at ESA.
Read about the experience, skills, behavioural competencies and other attributes we seek in our candidates: Who are we looking for
Learn about our salaries, flexible working arrangements, leave and training opportunities: What we offer
Ready to apply?
Like