Internship in Astronaut Training Materials - apply now!

Background:

From 2009 to 2010 the Training Division successfully implemented a Basic Training programme for a class of six new ESA astronauts consisting of a total of 1600 training hours. There is now a requirement to use the EAC basic training catalogue as the starting point to develop new materials in a range of multimedia formats using a range of learning technologies. The goal of this internship is to assist in this process.

This internship:

The tasks of the intern will be diverse and centered around the production of various training and educational videos. You will be involved in the creative process from the beginning, helping to write storyboards and scripts. Planning and shooting the footage will be part of your responsibilities (for example, you might be interviewing an astronaut or researching the ESA video archives). You will also help to cut and edit the final videos.

Another possible task will be developing graphics and animations suitable for use in video lessons. If you have skills developing virtual reality applications (for example using Oculus Rift, Unreal Engine), then there will be opportunities to use them, too.

Main work responsibilities:

• development of educational content (primarily video, but also storyboards, multimedia animations, e-learning) as required, using a variety of multimedia tools
• assisting in the creative and design process by suggesting innovative ways to illustrate complex technical concepts

• Shooting educational videos and interviews for in-house video production (for example https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbyvawxScNbsoD_tGlw8kWCw3S5htiVKZ)
• Supporting the EAC Training Division team as required

Desired qualifications and skills:

• Bachelor degree (essential)
• a background in either an engineering or scientific field of study (preferably aerospace, mechanical, electrical or mechatronics engineering) or in media/creative design
• experience with video and audio recording hardware and software
• knowledge and experience of using Final Cut Pro or other video editing software
• experience of creating 2D/3D graphic animations
• excellent communication skills along with the ability to work independently
• fluent English (minimum CEFRA C1)

An interest in human spaceflight and modern communication technology is a must. Experience with training, teaching and/or educational methods would be beneficial but most important is enthusiasm. Applicants should ideally be enrolled on a Masters course or equivalent postgraduate qualification.

Terms and conditions:

• full-time internship 5 days per week (40 hours per week)
• €20 dailyallowance (if the applicant is enrolled as a student and lives more than 50 km from EAC, 10€/day if less than 50 km, weekends included)
• duty station is the European Astronaut Centre outside Cologne, near Cologne-Bonn airport
• the duration of the internship is usually 6 months
• earliest start date: 1 May 2015 (other dates also available later in the year)
• you must be a citizen of an ESA member or cooperating state in order to be eligible

Closing date:

The closing date for applications is 31 May 2015.

Why apply?:

We are looking for dynamic candidates who can work independently and think creatively. You will be encouraged to show initiative and drive. In return you will have access to EAC facilities (for example a fully equipped gym) and be working in a stimulating environment that is unique within Europe. The vibrant and historic city of Cologne and famous River Rhine are nearby.

How to apply:

Interested? If so, sent your CV, letter of motivation and the ESA application form (see link on the right) to Juergen.Schleppi@esa.int.

State clearly that you are applying for an Internship at EAC (quote EAC BT MEDIA 02).