Our team and mission

The Mechatronics and Optics Division provides engineering support for space projects and executes technology developments in the areas of Automation and Robotics, Mechanisms, Life and Physical Sciences Instrumentation, Optics and Opto-Electronics.

One of the sections of this Division, the Automation and Robotics Section, is the focal point at 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).

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:

o    robot perception;
o    control, autonomy and intelligence;

o    motion and actuation;
o    robot-user interfacing;
o    robot ground testing.
 

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

Field(s) of activity/research for the traineeship

You will, as a Young Graduate Trainee, contribute to one or more tasks pertaining to the responsibilities and needs of the Section 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 the support of other ESA specialists, you may work on:

•    feasibility assessments of new space A&R concepts;

•    breadboarding and demonstration of A&R systems (e.g. robots, rovers 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

Behavioural competencies

Result Orientation

Operational Efficiency

Fostering Cooperation

Relationship Management

Continuous Improvement

Forward Thinking

Education

You should have just completed or be in the final year of your master’s degree in mechatronics or mechanical engineering.

Additional requirements

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.

You should also have:

Due to the multidisciplinary nature of robotics, a good grasp of system aspects and a good understanding of the basic engineering domains of robotics (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 are considered important assets.

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.

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