2026-2028 Internship - STEM - Prototype Development for Spacecraft Integration
About The Position
Are you interested in contributing to efforts that help us learn about the planets and moons in our solar system, even if you’ve never worked on space systems before? The Dragonfly mission team is seeking a Student Guest Investigator to help design and develop a prototype machine that fabricates non-flight harnesses and test cables used during spacecraft integration and testing. We’re seeking Master’s and PhD students majoring in the physical sciences, computer science, mathematics, or engineering who are strong problem-solvers and eager to apply their skills to real-world challenges. This is a two-year hybrid commitment and you must remain actively enrolled for the full two-year duration of the project. Some work may be performed remotely during the academic year; however, summer work is conducted in person. This is your opportunity to contribute to a mission to Saturn’s largest moon, Titan, while building, testing, and developing systems that directly support spacecraft integration. Project Overview Dragonfly’s custom mission architecture requires custom-built ground support equipment (GSE), test hardware and software. This project focuses on developing a prototype harness-building machine capable of constructing simple, custom, non-flight cables used in testbeds and engineering units. You will work alongside integration and testing engineers, harness technicians, and testbed engineers to research, design, build, and test a functional prototype. As a Student Guest Investigator, you will: Learn current Dragonfly harness fabrication processes Analyze end-to-end harness assembly and testing workflows Study GSE harness, testbed cable, and adapter cable designs Interpret harness drawings, work orders, connector types, and wiring configurations Develop mechanical, electrical, and software designs for a prototype machine Present trade studies, cost estimates, and design concepts to a review board Generate parts lists and procure materials Assemble and test the prototype independently Demonstrate automated harness fabrication and pin-to-pin continuity testing for specified cable configurations Document development progress, technical challenges, and time tracking for mentor review Location: The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)
Requirements
- U.S. Citizenship (required for access to facilities and networks)
- Currently pursuing a Master’s or PhD in physical sciences, computer science, mathematics, or engineering at a U.S. institution and must remain actively enrolled for the full two-year duration of the project
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research or development
- Experience in at least one of the following: Software development Electrical engineering Mechanical engineering Mechatronics
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work both independently and within a technical team
Nice To Haves
- Experience with hardware design and software testing
- Background in electrical engineering, computer engineering, industrial engineering, manufacturing, robotics, or mechatronics
- Experience building or prototyping mechanical or automated systems
Responsibilities
- Learn current Dragonfly harness fabrication processes
- Analyze end-to-end harness assembly and testing workflows
- Study GSE harness, testbed cable, and adapter cable designs
- Interpret harness drawings, work orders, connector types, and wiring configurations
- Develop mechanical, electrical, and software designs for a prototype machine
- Present trade studies, cost estimates, and design concepts to a review board
- Generate parts lists and procure materials
- Assemble and test the prototype independently
- Demonstrate automated harness fabrication and pin-to-pin continuity testing for specified cable configurations
- Document development progress, technical challenges, and time tracking for mentor review
Benefits
- We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
- Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance.
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Intern
