2026 Composites and Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) Undergraduate Intern
About The Position
The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) supports the effective and timely development and operation of national security systems through scientific research and the application of advanced technologies. PSL has more than 150 specialized laboratories used to test, analyze, and troubleshoot virtually every aspect of rocket and satellite system design, development, construction, deployment, and operation. The expertise of the laboratories’ technical staff allows PSL to stay abreast of new technological developments and program support issues associated with rapidly evolving space systems. The Materials Science Department (MSD) in the Space Materials Laboratory at The Aerospace Corporation conducts anomaly resolution, correlation of materials physics to materials performance, nondestructive evaluation, materials characterization, failure analysis, and applied research in materials science, additive manufacturing, nondestructive evaluation technologies for space applications and provides technical support to national security space programs in these areas. The MSD is seeking an undergraduate-level Composites and Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) Intern, a well-qualified individual with a strong foundation in materials science, polymer chemistry, nondestructive evaluation, and data acquisition, such as ultrasonic, X-ray, and eddy current measurement technologies. The section’s research and customer program support activities are well-established and supported by highly trained and accomplished staff. Highlights of our lab's capabilities can be seen here: Virtual Tour The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.
Requirements
- Strong written and oral communication skills
- Must work well in a team environment
- Possess organizational, time management and project management skills
- Demonstrate flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational need
- Interpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizations
- Currently enrolled fulltime in an accredited college/university program pursuing a Bachelor's degree in materials science and engineering, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, physics, or related discipline
- Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term and ability to return to a degree program full-time after completion of the internship.
- Minimum GPA 3.0
- Sophomore class standing completed by internship start date
- Relevant coursework or knowledge in materials science and engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, metallurgy, NDE, additive manufacturing, computational modeling or material characterization
- Programming experience in Python, C++, LabVIEW, SolidWorks, InspectionWare, CIVA, or MATLAB
- This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the US government.
- U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
- Transcripts required
Nice To Haves
- Knowledge in nondestructive evaluation, materials property measurements
- Experience in composites, layup, characterization, and mechanical testing for space applications
- Hands-on experience with ultrasonic testing, X-ray measurements, eddy current measurement and testing, conducting computational modeling and simulation of NDE techniques, image analysis
- Hands-on experience with materials processing, including composite layup and CNC milling
- Hands-on experience with characterization of structure-property relationships of high-performance CFRP composite materials and effect of processing conditions on resulting thermal and mechanical properties.
- Records on publishing technical paper or delivering conference presentations
Responsibilities
- Conduct research and contribute to technical projects by hands on NDE evaluating methods including, but not limited to ultrasonic testing measurements, X-ray measurements, or computational modeling and simulation of NDE techniques
- Data acquisition and analysis
- Communicate with personnel within PSL and between organizations within Engineering, Technology Group
- Prepare written and oral reports of research activities and accomplishments, and present to higher management, internal colleagues and the broader scientific community
- Training and mentorship will be provided
Benefits
- Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
- Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
- Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
- 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
- Flexible spending accounts
- Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
- Relocation assistance
- Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
- Education assistance programs
- An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
