Why Professional Development at ESA Could Be Your Career Game-Changer

At the European Space Agency, we believe that continuous learning is the key to staying ahead in the ever-evolving field of space exploration. One of the benefits of joining ESA is our commitment to your development through comprehensive training programmes. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or are starting out in your career, ESA offers you the opportunity to grow, learn and thrive in a dynamic environment.?

ESA has a dedicated internal Talent Development team, headed by Tina Weilmuenster. In addition to her extensive experience in human resources management and training, Tina is a qualified systemic coach.?

‘My team is responsible for helping ESA staff develop their technical and behavioural competencies by offering appropriate?learning opportunities. We design and implement a large portfolio of developmental activities, ranging from technical and non-technical?training, team interventions,?coaching, 360-degree feedback to leadership competency assessment tools.’ - Tina?

?

A spectrum of training opportunities?

Our training programmes are as diverse as the challenges in space exploration. Here’s what you can expect:?

Comprehensive development across four key pillars: We offer a structured approach to learning through courses organised into four fundamental pillars:?

• Technical & project management: If you’re an engineer, scientist or technical professional, our specialised courses will help keep you at the forefront of space technology. Led by ESA internal and external experts, these programmes cover everything from the latest satellite systems to the complexities of interplanetary missions. At ESA, you won’t just keep up with advancements—you’ll drive them. This pillar includes sponsorship for participation in a small number of exclusive and prestigious programmes, such as the Space for Business Programme and the International Space University's Space Studies Programme .?

• Leadership & people management: This pillar focuses on effective leadership practices, aiming to foster a culture of cooperative management and strengthen ESA’s leadership capabilities. ESA knows that technical expertise alone isn’t enough, so our training programmes also boost leadership, communication and teamwork skills. Whether you’re aspiring to lead projects or manage international collaborations, our soft skills training will prepare you to excel in any role.?

• Personal & business development: A key effort to support job performance and behavioural development in line with ESA’s competency model. This pillar contributes to a dynamic and productive working environment, essential for both individual and organisational success.?

• ESA context & administration: Covering the internal operations of ESA from a corporate perspective, this pillar includes essential knowledge areas such as finance, contracts, security and human resources. These courses play a key role in standardising practices across ESA and are crucial for onboarding new staff.??

Career growth at every stage: Whether you’re just starting out or are already established in your career, ESA supports your professional journey. Early-career professionals can take advantage of the newcomer onboarding programme and skill-building trainings, while mid-career and senior employees have access to advanced courses. All ESA employees can also access external training opportunities throughout their career at the agency.

?

A culture of lifelong learning?

‘In the rapidly changing landscape of space science and technology, staying current is crucial. That is why we are committed to the development of ESA staff at all levels of our organisation. Our ambition is to remain a key player in the space industry by supporting organisational evolution and staff development while promoting a culture of cooperation and continuous learning. When you join ESA, you are expected to ?keep learning.’ - Tina?

?

Global expertise, local impact?

One of the unique aspects of ESA’s training programmes is access to international expertise. Through collaborations with leading space agencies, universities and research institutions, ESA provides a global perspective that enriches your learning experience. This international exposure not only enhances the quality of our programmes but also connects you with some of the brightest minds in the industry.?

In addition to formal training, every day at ESA you interact with experts working alongside you at your duty station, both in person and virtually, while technical presentations and guest lectures are regularly organised at most ESA sites. Staff may also be invited to attend conferences related to their field of work.?

?

Beyond professional development: personal growth?

At ESA, professional development is closely aligned with personal growth. Our training programmes are designed to foster confidence, enhance problem-solving abilities and instil a strong sense of purpose. This holistic approach to development ensures that at ESA, not only are you advancing your career, you're also growing as an individual.?

‘Working for ESA has been a great experience for me so far. As an HR professional, I was not familiar with the space industry and not at all aware of all the great things ESA does. I was also not expecting the level of enthusiasm and engagement that I see on a daily basis with all my colleagues and this great team spirit. I learned so much in my time with the agency and have had the chance to enrol in further learning activities myself. Just recently, I completed a diploma on digital learning design to enhance my knowledge in this area – all supported with the help of ESA.’ - Tina?

?

Investing in your future—and ours?

Joining ESA is more than simply starting a new job, it's making a strategic investment in your future. Our commitment to your professional development ensures that you’ll always be at the cutting edge of space exploration. As you grow, you’ll play a crucial role in maintaining ESA’s leadership in the global space community. Our investment in your growth reflects our ambition to continue leading in Europe’s space endeavours by supporting individual success as well as organisational evolution.?

?

Ready to reach new heights??

If you’re passionate about space and eager to advance your career, ESA offers an environment where learning is a lifelong journey. Our training programmes are designed to unlock your full potential, equipping you with the skills and knowledge to meet the challenges of today and seize the opportunities of tomorrow.?

Join us at ESA, where your career can truly take off.?

Are you ready to explore a career with ESA? Visit our careers page to learn more about our opportunities and how we invest in the growth and success of our team.?

?