How to start your space career

Starting a career in the space sector involves exploring educational pathways, developing relevant skills, gaining practical experience and identifying job opportunities.

According to the ASTRAIOS analysis of the European space workforce, employers increasingly seek candidates who combine strong technical expertise with transversal skills such as communication, teamwork, adaptability, creative thinking and problem-solving. It is therefore paramount to reflect on your interests, strengths, and goals. Ask yourself: 

Which part of the space sector interests me most: engineering, policy, data science, business? What are my strengths: technical skills, teamwork, problem-solving, creativity? Do I see myself in industry, research, start-ups, or public institutions? Which skills do I still need to build?
 

The Space Career Launchpad can help you with:

• Identifying relevant opportunities  
• Better understanding employer expectations  
• Adapting your Europass CV and cover letter accordingly  
• Highlighting the most relevant skills and experiences for each application

Spontaneous applications demonstrate initiative, motivation, curiosity, and interest in a specific organization or field. Whilst hunting for jobs or internships, especially in fields that value innovation and initiative, don’t underestimate the power of spontaneous and initiative applications. Some organisations recruit continuously or identify candidates through spontaneous applications and networking activities. Proactively approaching organisations can therefore open additional opportunities across the space ecosystem.

1. CV
   • Use Europass for a clear, standard format
   • Focus on education, certifications, projects, internships and competitions
   • Show both technical and soft skills
   • Add references if possible and only with permission, including their position

   • Keep the CV concise: 1–2 pages, tailored to each role you apply for

      

2. Cover letter

   Your cover letter is your opportunity to present your professional identity and explain your motivation for joining the space sector. 

   Rather than repeating your CV, the cover letter should: 

   • Explain why you fit the role
   • Use specific examples from your studies or projects

   • Show genuine motivation for the organisation’s mission

      

3. Online profile
   • Make sure your LinkedIn or other profile matches your CV

   • Highlight space-related skills, projects, courses and events

      

4. Apply strategically
   • Tailor every application to the job description

   • Do not rely only on advertised roles: spontaneous applications can also work

      

5. Prepare for interviews and tests:
   • Research the organisation
   • Practise linking your skills to its needs

   • Review relevant technical topics for the role

      

6. Keep learning and connecting

   Use Space Career Launchpad resources to:

   • Stay informed about EU space programmes, sector trends and new start-up activity.
   • build skills in areas like AI, sustainability or space law
   • join networking events
   • improve your CV and interview technique through EURES resources
      

A space career starts step by step: reflect, prepare, apply and connect. Use the Space Career Launchpad to explore opportunities and shape your path.

Need more help?

• Browse learning resources
• Find job openings
• Get CV and cover letter templates
   

Find relevant resources for each group: 

• Students: Access student resources on learning, internships, and career guidance

• Professionals: Explore professional training and development opportunities

• Employers: Discover tools to find talent and post opportunities

• Teachers: View educational resources and programmes to support learners