Intern in the Sentinels Radar Imaging Missions Operations Unit, Mission Operations Department
Darmstadt, DE
Location
ESOC, Darmstadt, Germany
Our team and mission
The Sentinel-1 mission, operated at the European Space Operations Centre (ESOC), is a cornerstone of the Copernicus Earth Observation programme. With the new launches of Sentinel-1C and Sentinel-1D, the constellation will be refreshed to continue its critical role in monitoring environmental changes and supporting disaster response. During over 10 years of operations, the ground systems supporting Sentinel-1 have been consistently updated, ensuring the mission's success. However, there are new tools now available that could enhance operator experience and streamline workload and the extensive operational experience gained has also highlighted areas where processes can be optimized. You would join an international, collaborative and supportive team and gain insight into real spacecraft operations in a unique control centre environment and be part of realizing this transition to the future of Sentinel operations.
While the primary focus will be on Sentinel-1 mission, the solutions developed during this internship will be shared and potentially applied across all Sentinel missions operated from ESOC, amplifying the impact of your work.
Candidates interested are encouraged to visit the ESA website: http://www.esa.int
Field(s) of activity for the internship
Topic of the internship : Sentinel-1 Flight Operations Optimization
You will be working with the Sentinel-1 Flight Control Team as it executes routine operations of the mission. While the tools and processes are already established, you will work with the team to understand areas where evolution could be possible to improve operations and make it ready for the coming years. The exact project(s) for this internship will be determined based on your skills, interests, and the mission needs at the time of the internship. For example, you may be involved in configuring and testing new software tools that could be useful for the mission, migrating legacy systems to more up-to-date alternatives or in developing small, self-contained helper tools to support operations. Another key area of focus could be writing scripts that integrate with existing tools by making use of API access methods.
A focus on creating readable, well-tested, and well documented code is essential, as well as the readiness to iterate based on user feedback.
You will learn about the ground segment systems, tools, and interfaces used at ESOC and immerse yourself in the real-world mission operations of a flagship Earth Observation spacecraft, with direct exposure to the Flight Control Team and the control room environment.
Through these tasks, you will play a vital role in ensuring that the Sentinel missions continue to operate smoothly and effectively, all while gaining invaluable experience in the field of spaceflight operations.
Behavioural competencies
Result Orientation
Operational Efficiency
Fostering Cooperation
Relationship Management
Continuous Improvement
Forward Thinking
For more information, please refer to ESA Core Behavioural Competencies guidebook
Education
You must be a university student, preferably studying at master’s level. In addition, you must be able to prove that you will be enrolled at your University for the entire duration of the internship.
Additional requirements
The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these is required. Knowledge of another ESA Member State language is an asset.
During the interview, your motivation for applying to this role will be explored.
A background in Computer Science, or experience with scripting languages (e.g. Python), web-based applications, and integration with APIs and existing data sources and systems would be an asset, as would a strong interest or experience in space operations and earth observation.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusiveness
ESA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. We therefore welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics.
At the Agency we value diversity, and we welcome people with disabilities. Whenever possible, we seek to accommodate individuals with disabilities by providing the necessary support at the workplace. The Human Resources Department can also provide assistance during the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss this further, please contact us via email at contact.human.resources@esa.int.
Important Information and Disclaimer
During the recruitment process, the Agency may request applicants to undergo selection tests.
The information published on ESA’s careers website regarding internship conditions is correct at the time of publication. It is not intended to be exhaustive and may not address all questions you would have.
Nationality
Please note that applications are only considered from nationals of one of the following States: Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. Applicants from Canada as a Cooperating State can apply as well as those from Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus and Malta as European Cooperating States (ECS).
