German Graduate Trainee Programme

Start your career at ESA!

You are passionate about robotics in space or Earth observation? You are intrigued by cybersecurity in navigation systems? If you’ve just completed your master’s degree in one of these fields, then the new German Graduate Trainee Programme by DLR and ESA is exactly right for you!

The German Space Agency at DLR and the European Space Agency (ESA) have jointly launched the German Graduate Trainee Programme (GGT) for recent university graduates, funded by the Federal Ministry for Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR).

The pilot phase is set for three years and will include six trainees annually starting in 2026. The programme aims to increase the representation of German experts in European space organisations and to strengthen space expertise throughout Germany in the long term.

What to expect

  • As a Graduate Trainee, you will be employed by ESA for one year initially, with the possibility of an extension for a second year.
  • During the programme, you will benefit from integration into the ESA Trainee Programme and from access to the extensive DLR networks.
  • Upon completion, you will have the opportunity to continue your career at ESA or to take up positions in key areas in the German and European space sector.
  • Eligibility requires German citizenship and a master’s degree in one of the specified fields.

Are you ready to kickstart your career at ESA?

Unfortunately, the application phase for 2026 has ended. Take your chance to apply again in spring 2027! Until then, click on the following links to find out more about ESA's entry programmes.

Credit: ESA/Melanie Lemahieu