Our team and mission

Candidates interested are encouraged to visit the ESA website: http://www.esa.int

Field(s) of activity for the internship

Topic of the internship : Space technology tenders and contracts

As intern of the contract department at the European Space Agency (ESA) – in the division of commercialisation and technology contracts, you will be exposed to the end-to-end tender process resulting in the signature of R&D contracts and commercial (near-to-market) initiatives of the Agency. You will  participate in tender evaluation boards, experience the preparation of tenders and calls for proposals, engaging in a diverse range of contractual activities. Here’s a detailed overview of your potential fields of activity:

1. Support the introduction of AI in the procurement process: you will be requested to support the contracts officer responsible for introducing AI in the procurement process and collaborate in applying AI solutions to contract drafting.
2. Documentation and Reporting: preparing and organizing documentation related to R&D contracts, including compliance checks. You will also assist in the redesign of the procurement repository.
3. Supporting Contract Drafting, and more specifically assisting in the drafting and review of tenders and contracts related to the commercialisation and/or technology related to ESA projects, programmes, missions. This involves understanding terms and conditions of both the tender process and the contract, ensuring, for example, the protection of intellectual property, in compliance with ESA's policies. You will also learn what are the objectives pursued by the Agency when procuring space technology, analyzing market trends to help tailor contracts that support ESA technology developments and commercial strategies. You will also participate in the meetings with industry and stakeholders, assisting where possible in the negotiation of the contractual terms and agreements.
4. Contract Management: assisting in the management of R&D contracts, including monitoring performance, ensuring compliance with contract terms, and addressing any issues that arise.

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.

You will demonstrate:

• A strong interest in the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into procurement processes. In fact, this role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the digital transformation of procurement and legal workflows, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance efficiency and compliance and combining legal knowledge with innovative spirit.   
• understanding of AI and Large Language Models (LLMs): basic knowledge of AI concepts and practical applications, particularly in the drafting of legal documents and automation of contract processing.
• technical skills:
  • required: proficiency in SharePoint Online and Copilot Studio;
  • desirable: familiarity with Python, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
• availability: a commitment of six months with the earliest start date 01/02/2026 is preferred, depending on the candidate’s availability.