Founders Associate Intern

Location: Hybrid, Turin. Candidates must reside or be willing to relocate to Turin. No VISA sponsorship. Type: Internship Salary: €800 /month Starting Date: February-March 2026 Application deadline: January 9th 2026 Ecosmic is on a mission to reduce threat exposure in space: we're building the operating system for space security. We are a high-tech, data-driven space startup, bringing together an international team of engineers and computer scientists. We move fast, think deeply, and care about building things that matter. We're looking for a hungry, pragmatic and quick-minded person who wants to contribute at the core of our company, learning directly from our founders. What you'll do As a Founders' Associate Intern, you will act as a force multiplier for the founders, tackling the most critical projects and serving as a key operational and strategic partner. This is a high-impact, hands-on role with a direct pathway to significant professional growth and a deeper understanding of building a high-growth tech company. You won't be observing from the sidelines. You'll get a front-row seat to how a fast-growing startup operates, you'll be trusted with responsibility, expected to think critically, and encouraged to take ownership. Responsibilities: Operational Optimisation: Design and implement scalable processes, fix operational gaps, and enforce standards for improved efficiency. Data-Driven Insight: Conduct analyses and manage reporting cadences to inform leadership on resourcing, prioritization, and performance. Executive Support: Ensure fast, reliable execution of top-priority projects for the leadership team. Who you are Being a startup founder means moving constantly between extremes: shaping long-term vision and strategy, then turning around to edit slides, answer customer emails, or organise a last-minute trip. We set priorities, but our day-to-day is defined just as much by the unexpected - and the Founders Associate Intern is expected to adapt quickly to whatever the day requires. You will likely bring: Hunger: a strong desire to "get your hands dirty" in a startup environment (i.E., you are willing and eager to be operational and dive into execution) Autonomy: experience in following and delivering complex projects from inception to completion Passion: Genuine passion for technology and startups and their potential to disrupt traditional industries Education (Ideal): holding or pursuing a MSc degree in Engineering (e.G., Management, Mechanical, Industrial, etc.) or in another quantitative field. Previous experience in startups, consulting, strategy, operations, or technical fields is a plus - but talent, drive, and potential matter more than pedigree. We expect you to have a high level written and verbal communication in English. What we offer Direct Founder Exposure: You'll work closely with the founders and gain first-hand insight into strategic and operational decision-making in a space-tech startup. High-Ownership Environment: You'll be part of a small, international, highly motivated team. Impact is defined by vision and execution, not by age or title. If you're ready to take responsibility, you'll find real opportunities to grow and lead high-stakes projects. Compensation: €800 per month. Hybrid Work Model: Flexible working hours and in-person collaboration from our Turin office, located in a historic city-center building. To apply: Send your CV and short motivation explaining why you're applying and why you'd be a strong fit. All applications must be in English. Talent takes precedence over experience. If this role excites you and you believe you could grow into it, we encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet every requirement. Please note: we do not offer VISA sponsorship for this position