2026 Electric Propulsion Graduate 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 Electric Propulsion & Plasma Science section focuses on experimentally studying electric propulsion and other low-temperature plasma space technologies. This includes performing experiments to resolve flight anomalies, as well as characterizing commercial EP devices using our extensive plasma physics expertise. With a range of test facilities at our disposal, including our world-class EP3 chamber, we are equipped to study not only low-power devices like electrosprays but also high-power (>10 kW) systems. In support of flight programs, the section also investigates other plasma-adjacent phenomena like electrostatic discharge (ESD), sputtering, multipactor breakdown, and other forms of plasma-material interaction. The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA. What You’ll Be Doing Project work will include research on electric propulsion systems and the development of diagnostics and facilities for their characterization. Work may also include performing tests on radio frequency (rf) and microwave hardware. Successful candidate will also investigate basic physics of plasmas and plasma devices. Participates with an interdisciplinary team in ongoing research or technical programs with academic collaboration partners Applies standard techniques and procedures to carry out a series of prescribed scientific and/or engineering tasks Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed Training and mentorship will be provided
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 Master's or Ph.D. degree in physics, aerospace, mechanical or electrical engineering or related discipline
- Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term and ability to return to a Master's or Ph.D. degree program full-time after completion of the internship
- Undergraduate degree completed by internship start date
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Familiarity with data analysis, MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, and/or report writing
- Basic experience with hand tools
- Basic experience with electronics
- This position requires 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.
Nice To Haves
- GPA 3.5 or higher
- Active security clearance
- Coursework in physics, thermodynamics, and electrical engineering is strongly preferred
- Strong E&M background is highly preferable
- Experience with laboratory data acquisition equipment and sensors is highly desired
- Software skills such as LabView, Visual Basic, MATLAB, Python, SolidWorks are desirable
Responsibilities
- Project work will include research on electric propulsion systems and the development of diagnostics and facilities for their characterization.
- Work may also include performing tests on radio frequency (rf) and microwave hardware.
- Successful candidate will also investigate basic physics of plasmas and plasma devices.
- Participates with an interdisciplinary team in ongoing research or technical programs with academic collaboration partners
- Applies standard techniques and procedures to carry out a series of prescribed scientific and/or engineering tasks
- Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed
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
