From engineers and scientists to project managers and support services
Opportunities at start-ups, SMEs, space agencies and in industry
Jobs across Europe (and beyond)
RHEA has been working in the space sector since 1992
There are many job types and disciplines in the space industry, some of which exist in both the upstream and downstream segments. These include:
In addition to engineering- and science-related jobs, the space sector relies on a wide range of roles across the supply chain, such as:
Those at the start of their career should look for space-related opportunities both in industry, including internships, and within universities and research centres. Space scientists and engineers tend to stay in the same domain, so it is likely that your first job may determine your career path – choose carefully.
RHEA has been working in the space sector for 30 years and has long-term relationships with many of our clients. We have a variety of roles in the space sector, some long-term, including positions within major agencies and institutions such as the European Space Agency (ESA). We provide opportunities to move jobs and even countries, as we collaborate with key space players across Europe.
Image © Trevor Mahlmann
The qualifications required for jobs in the space sector vary by role and organization. For a role in space engineering or science – particularly within a space agency such as ESA – you will need a Masters or PhD in a relevant discipline, such as mathematics, physics or engineering. Doing a space-related degree thesis is ideal and will help you find a first job in space.
For other roles and at smaller companies, the requirements will be broader. For example:
Other degrees may be applicable for some space roles: for example geography pairs well with Earth observation and atmospheric science; and psychology, medicine and biology with human spaceflight. AI and machine learning is another growing field within the space sector.
For all space roles, having a ‘system mindset’ – seeing the ‘big picture’ – is important because space services and solutions all rely on a range of ‘subsystems’ that need to work together.
Beyond that, the skills and experience required will vary according to the role and organization. Apart from internships, large industrial organizations and space agencies (including ESA) are likely to seek people with demonstrable experience and pertinent technical knowledge, whereas start-ups and SMEs may have different requirements.
Other skills and personal qualities that may make you stand out, depending on the role, include:
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