Agency
26/05/2026
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Are you ready to turn your passion for space into a long-term career? The European Space Agency’s Junior Professional Programme (JPP) will open its 2026 call for applications this June, offering an opportunity to join ESA as an early-career professional and contribute to Europe’s most ambitious space activities.
Designed for talented candidates with a Master’s degree and initial professional experience, the programme is a structured pathway into the heart of Europe’s space ecosystem.
What is the Junior Professional Programme?
The Junior Professional Programme is ESA’s flagship early-career recruitment scheme for professionals who aspire to build a future within the agency. Unlike internships or traineeships, the JPP offers a four-year appointment with the perspective of a long-term career at ESA, designed to develop both technical expertise and professional versatility. Participants are fully integrated members of ESA teams, working on real projects that support missions, technologies and programmes shaping the future of space exploration, Earth observation, telecommunications, navigation and space safety.
A personalised development plan, combined with mentoring and training, ensures that Junior Professionals grow rapidly while gaining meaningful, hands-on experience.
A foundation for a long-term ESA career: The programme is designed as a stepping stone towards continued opportunities within ESA. Junior Professionals are supported by experienced colleagues and managers as they build deep domain knowledge and organisational insight.
Work on real space missions and programmes: From advanced satellite systems to emerging technologies, JPs contribute directly to projects with tangible impact across ESA’s activities.
Rotations across teams and disciplines: The JPP includes a rotation scheme that broadens experience and fosters cross-functional understanding. Participants may also collaborate with external partners, including industry and research organisations.
Continuous learning and development: Junior Professionals benefit from tailored training, leadership development and on-the-job coaching that accelerates career growth.
An international working environment: ESA’s multicultural setting brings together experts from across its Member States, creating a uniquely collaborative and inspiring workplace.
Comprehensive benefits package: Junior Professionals receive a competitive salary, social security coverage, generous leave entitlements and relocation support.
ESA is looking for candidates who:
Hold a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline
Have up to three years of relevant professional experience (which can include research or ESA programme experience)
Are citizens of eligible ESA Member States, Associate Members or Canada as a Cooperating State
Demonstrate strong motivation for a long-term career at ESA
Exact requirements vary by vacancy, as positions span a wide range of technical and programme domains.
Each year, ESA opens a limited number of Junior Professional positions across diverse fields. The 2026 application window will open in April, with opportunities published on ESA’s jobs portal.
The selection process includes:
Online application (CV and motivation letter)
Assessments relevant to the role
Panel interviews
Final selection and offers
Given the programme’s popularity, early preparation is strongly recommended.
Hear from ESA Junior Professionals
Curious about what the experience is really like? Explore first-hand perspectives from current participants:
Their stories offer valuable glimpses into daily work, challenges and career development within ESA.
If you are passionate about space, eager to work in an international environment and motivated to grow within ESA, this is the perfect moment to start preparing your application.
Check out eligibility criteria and programme details on the Junior Professional Programme page and stay tuned for the official opening of the 2026 call for applications this June.
Your journey into Europe’s space future could begin sooner than you think.
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