2026 Operations and Manufacturing Process Undergraduate Intern

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

5d•$26 - $30•Onsite

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. The Aerospace Corporation’s Experiment Lab, xLab, develops prototypes, instruments, pathfinders, and demonstration systems to address our customers’ hardest problems at the speed of need. We engage with our customers to conceptualize innovative solutions and deliver impactful products for ground and space and everything in between. We are looking for engineers with a passion for design, a commitment to teamwork and a desire to help xLab make a difference to today’s challenges. Join our dynamic team in a state-of-the-art prototype lab where you’ll play a key role in transforming how manufacturing instructions and workorder flows are standardized and optimized. As an intern, you’ll collaborate with experienced engineers to streamline processes, implement operational efficiencies, and continuously refine our manufacturing systems. This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a real-world environment that bridges theory and practice. The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA. 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 full-time in an accredited college/university program pursuing a Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, industrial engineering, or related discipline
Sophomore class standing completed by internship start date
Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term and ability to return to a Bachelor's degree program full-time after completion of the internship
Minimum GPA 3.0
Ability to analyze data and process critically
Familiarity with CAD software, manufacturing systems, or lean manufacturing principles
A keen sense of initiative and the drive to learn and contribute in a fast-paced, innovative environment
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
Lean Six Sigma process improvement methodologies
Experience using Jira software
Comfortable working in a lab setting with technicians

Responsibilities

Operate strategically by assisting in the creation and improvement of manufacturing instructions, inventory, and tooling lists; ensuring lab processes are clear, concise, and standardized
Deliver results by supporting the design and implementation of streamlined workorder flows that enhance productivity and reduce downtime
Lead change by collaborating closely with engineering teams to identify production bottlenecks and propose innovative solutions
Engage with impact by collecting and analyze operational data to gauge the effectiveness of process improvements and guide continuous development
Foster innovation by participate in cross-functional projects and contributing valuable insights in operations and manufacturing engineering methodologies

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