ESA Graduate Trainee in Robotics Engineering

Our team and mission

The Mechatronics and Optics Division provides engineering support for space projects and executes technology developments in the areas of Robotics, Life and Physical Sciences Instrumentation, Optics and Opto-Electronics. One of the Sections of this Division, the Robotics Section, is the focal point in ESA for matters relating to the design, engineering and verification of space Automation and Robotics (A&R) systems (i.e. manipulation systems, mobility systems and payload automation systems).

The Automation and Robotics Laboratories (ARL) have a long heritage in the field of Planetary and Orbital Robotics, as well as in Human-Robot interaction aspects of teleoperated missions.

In this context, the Automation and Robotics Section is responsible for:

• The conception of novel uses and novel designs in space missions
• Definition, design and engineering
• Breadboarding and demonstration
• Analysis and verification
• Technology development in the fields of:

• Robot perception
• Control, autonomy and intelligence
• Motion and actuation
• Robot-user interfacing
• Robot ground testing

Field(s) of activity/research for the traineeship

The Trainee will be assigned to one or more tasks pertaining to the responsibilities and needs of the Robotics Section and the Automation and Robotics Laboratories within the fields of orbital robotics, planetary robotics and human-robotics interaction.

With the assistance of ESA engineers working in the Section, as well as with the support of other ESA specialists, the holder of the training position may work on:

• Feasibility assessments of new space A&R concepts
• Breadboarding and demonstration of A&R systems (e.g. robots, rovers, air-bearing platforms and supporting technologies) and their subsystems and interfaces to users in the A&R laboratories
• Verification of existing A&R systems
• Mathematical modelling and simulations
• Operational readiness, organisation and extension of the lab facilities

Technical competencies

• Knowledge of relevant technical/functional domains
• Relevant experience gained during internships, project work and/or extracurricular or other activities
• General knowledge of the space sector and relevant activities
• Knowledge of ESA and its programmes/projects

Behavioural competencies

• Result Orientation
• Operational Efficiency
• Fostering Cooperation
• Relationship Management
• Continuous Improvement
• Forward Thinking

Education

You should have recently completed or be in the final year of your master’s degree in Robotics or Computer Science; Mechatronics, Mechanical, Control or Space Engineering (or related fields of engineering).

Additional requirements

A good grasp of system aspects and a good understanding of the basic engineering domains of robotics (i.e. mechatronics, control theory, computer science, image processing) as well as a solid foundation in mathematics and physics is strongly desirable. Proficiency in the use of computer aided engineering tools is an asset. Strong general computer skills and proficiency in several programming languages is considered an important asset.

You should have good interpersonal and communication skills and should be able to work in a multicultural environment, both independently and as part of a team. Previous experience of working in international teams can be considered an asset.

Important Information and Disclaimer

Applicants must be eligible to access information, technology, and hardware which is subject to European or US export control and sanctions regulations.

Nationality and Languages

Please note that applications can only be considered from nationals of one of the following States: Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. Nationals from Latvia, Lithuania and Slovakia as Associate Member States, or Canada as a Cooperating State, can apply as well as those from Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus and Malta as European Cooperating States (ECS).

The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these is required. Knowledge of another Member State language would be an asset.