Applying to the European Space Agency (ESA) this summer? Here's how to make the most of it, according to an expert editorial writer. With around 50 vacancies currently open across ESA, and more opportunities expected to be published over the coming weeks, now is a great time to prepare a strong application without the pressure of a last-minute rush.
Use the Current Vacancies to Your Advantage
The current vacancies are a valuable resource. Read through several job descriptions and look for recurring themes. Which technical skills, competencies, or types of experience consistently appear? You may notice that project management, stakeholder engagement, international collaboration, or specific software tools are mentioned across multiple roles.
This can help you identify strengths to highlight in your CV and motivation letter, as well as any skills you could develop for future opportunities. It's also a great way to become familiar with how ESA vacancy notices are structured and what recruiters are looking for.
Tailor Every Application
It can be tempting to submit the same CV and motivation letter for multiple roles, but recruiters can quickly tell when an application has been written with a specific role in mind or if you are using a template. Start by reading the vacancy carefully and identifying the essential requirements before looking at the "asset" criteria.
Focus on demonstrating that you meet the key requirements of the role, then use your motivation letter to show how your additional skills and experience could bring value. Tailor your CV and motivation letter accordingly, highlighting relevant experience and skills. Check your application for any unnecessary details to make it easier for recruiters to zoom in on the relevant aspects.
Focus on Achievements, Not Just Responsibilities
Your job title tells recruiters what you were expected to do. Your achievements tell them what you actually accomplished. Instead of writing that you "managed projects," explain what those projects achieved.
Include measurable results whenever possible, but even qualitative examples that demonstrate initiative, problem-solving, or teamwork can help bring your experience to life. Think beyond the job title and consider how your expertise is relevant to the position and how you can contribute to ESA's mission.
Understand the Recruitment Journey
Knowing what happens after you click "Submit" can help you prepare with confidence. After submitting your application through ESA's recruitment portal, you can track its progress through your candidate profile. Once the application deadline has passed, shortlisted candidates may be invited to a pre-screening activity, such as an on-demand video interview, online interview, or written test.
Successful candidates are then invited to a final interview, which is usually held online with an ESA selection board. Familiarize yourself with the recruitment journey to prepare effectively.
Create an Application Toolkit
A little preparation can save a lot of time, especially if you're interested in applying for more than one role. Start by creating your candidate profile, which is the foundation for your application(s) and also for creating a job alert.
Apply to multiple open positions, but submit one application at a time and tailor each motivation letter to the relevant vacancy. Have a master CV and motivation letter, along with a document listing projects, achievements, and examples of key competencies.
Give Yourself Time to Review
A strong application is rarely written in one sitting. Leave your draft for a day and then read it again with fresh eyes. Check for spelling and grammar, ensure dates are consistent, and ask yourself whether your key strengths are immediately obvious.
Ask a trusted colleague, friend, or mentor to review your application as well. They may spot unclear wording or identify achievements you've overlooked. Use AI to refine your application only when necessary, as humans review every application at ESA.
Stay One Step Ahead
If you can't find the right opportunity straight away, don't worry. New vacancies are published regularly, so create a candidate profile and set up job alerts on the ESA recruitment website. You can choose the types of roles you're interested in and receive notifications when a matching vacancy is published.
With plenty of opportunities available, the summer months offer an ideal chance to prepare thoughtful, high-quality applications. Take advantage of the extra time and put your strongest application forward. In my opinion, this is the key to success when applying to ESA this summer.
