Young Graduate Trainee for Engineering Systems with Business

Within the Directorate of Earth Observation Programmes, the Φ Department is responsible for defining and preparing future EO systems and architectures, including the investigation of new domains in Earth observation such as disruptive methods and technologies.

More particularly, Φ-lab promotes investment in industrial innovation within the EO domain and develops partnerships with new actors entering the EO sector. These include EO constellation operators, start-ups, micro-companies, SMEs and major internet and IT companies. Within Φ-lab, the Invest Section (EOP-ΦLI) focusses on the commercial EO aspects.

Among others, Φ-lab I is managing ESA’s InCubed programme. While institutional and private European space actors have so far created a flourishing Earth observation sector in Earth Science, meteorology, environmental and security monitoring, the EO market is currently undergoing rapid transition, with new implementation approaches (constellations of micro-satellites, vertical integration of space borne/non-spaceborne data), new industrial players (IT companies) and new funding models (PPP, venture capital). It is crucial for Europe to adapt to this rapidly evolving market and seize the opportunities it provides. InCubed aims at accompanying European economic operators in this disruptive market evolution.

Φ-lab is designed as an open working environment which brings together ESA staff but also external space and non-space actors, innovators, data scientists and investors on a permanent or temporary basis. This environment and the associated management will aim at rapidly prototyping and testing ideas.

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

As a YGT you will provide generic support to the tasks to be performed by the Invest Section. This entails for example:

• supporting programme activities spanning satellite and constellation development, ground segment development and analysis of new and improved EO products and services in a commercial context
• contributing to monitoring trends and emerging opportunities in global markets including existing and planned EO missions
• supporting entrepreneurial initiatives and helping develop new business opportunities within EO to improve European economic operators’ competitiveness within related global markets;
• analysing the European EO landscape and emerging commercial market within an international context
• contributing to socioeconomic and market analyses to document the value and impact of European efforts in an international EO context
• preparation of presentations, fact sheets and communication material for InCubed and EOP‑ФLI activities.
• contributing to Ф-lab online articles and posts
• support to and participation in dedicated events, workshops relevant to the EOP‑ФLI domain

You should have just completed, or be in the final year of a university course at Master's level (or equivalent) in a technical or scientific discipline with a proven business/economics element.

You will have to demonstrate the ability to understand business and economic concepts within the complex and innovative EO landscape promoted by European economic operators.

A good knowledge of the EO landscape including the emerging Earth Observation commercial market and a keen interest in the development of EO commercial solutions and their associated business context are an asset.

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.

You should demonstrate good interpersonal skills and the capacity to work both independently and as part of a team. This is especially true giving in the context of the fluid and innovative working environment boasted by Ф-Lab.

During the interview your motivation and overall professional perspective/career goals will also be explored.