Reserve list

The Reserve list is integrated into ESA’s current recruitment approach, meaning individual positions will be published for roles with more specific requirements, while for positions with more generic requirements, ESA will rely on a Reserve list of pre-assessed, pre-approved candidates to support its recruitment efforts.

How does it work?

If a vacancy is a part of Reserve list recruitment, this will be indicated in the title and noted at the beginning of the vacancy description. At the end of the selection process, you can expect to be included in a Reserve list of qualified candidates who will automatically be considered for future vacancies in the same professional discipline that have similar requirements.

Overview of Reserve list recruitment at ESA:

• Identification: ESA identifies the skills, qualifications and experience required for generic roles.
• Screening: Throughout the publication period of the Reserve list vacancy, candidates are screened based on predetermined criteria to assess their suitability for future positions. This involves reviewing of CVs, conducting pre-selection tests, live online interviews with the selection board and a background check.
• Reserve list creation: Successful candidates are placed on the Reserve list, which includes their contact information, qualifications, skills and experience. The Reserve list remains open for a period of 24 months, which may be extended.
• Updates: The Reserve list is regularly updated with new candidates and relevant information. If you are an active member of the Reserve list, you can expect updates from ESA every 3-6 months.
• Matching and selection: When a vacancy opens, ESA HR reviews the Reserve list to identify potential candidates who match the job requirements. ESA sends the position description as well as the contract terms of the post (e.g. 4 years, extendable to indefinite or fixed-term) to potential candidates from the Reserve list. A follow-up interview may be conducted to determine the best candidate for the position.
• Job offer: If you are selected, you will receive a personal notification, followed by an email indicating our intention to offer you the position and requesting additional information. Once we have received this information, we will send you our final ESA contract offer.

The Reserve list recruitment system is explained in full detail on our dedicated FAQ page.

Key points about Reserve list recruitment at ESA

• The standard duration of a Reserve list is 24 months and you will remain on it as long as it is active, unless you accept a job offer through the Reserve list or choose to withdraw from it. If the Reserve list is extended beyond 24 months, you will be informed accordingly.
• It is essential that you do not leave your application until the last minute as, for Reserve list recruitment opportunities, ESA continuously assesses candidates. Upcoming positions may therefore be filled as soon as suitable candidates are identified.
• You can put your Reserve list placement on hold for up to six months. While your placement is on hold, you will not be contacted about upcoming ESA positions.
• You can be included on multiple Reserve lists at once and you can also apply for individual job postings at the same time as being on a Reserve list.
• Inclusion on the Reserve list does not guarantee you a job at ESA: the final decision to recruit a candidate depends on various factors, including the specific requirements of the position, competition from other candidates and our hiring priorities.
• There will be several selection rounds during the time that a Reserve list is open.

Who can apply?

Please note that ESA can only accept applications from nationals of ESA Member States, Associate Members and Cooperating States. The full list of eligible countries is published in the footer of each ESA vacancy.

Learn more about who we are looking for.