2027 Electric Propulsion & Plasma Science Graduate Intern
About The Position
The Propulsion Science Department at The Aerospace Corporation is seeking a graduate intern to support electric propulsion and plasma science research in a laboratory R&D environment. The department addresses in-space propulsion challenges and plasma phenomena across development stages, from technology proof-of-concept to anomaly resolution of propulsion systems in service. The role involves developing, testing, and applying electric propulsion technologies for national security and civil space programs, and conducting experimental research in propulsion facilities. The position is full-time and on-site at the company’s facility in El Segundo, California. The internship requires at least 10 weeks of full-time availability outside the university term, with the intern returning to a full-time master’s or Ph.D. program afterward. Training and mentorship will be provided.
Requirements
- Currently enrolled full-time in an accredited college or university master’s or Ph.D. program in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related discipline.
- Available to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside the university term and able to return to a full-time master’s or Ph.D. program after the internship.
- Undergraduate degree completed by the internship start date.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Familiarity with MATLAB, SolidWorks, Python, LabVIEW, and/or report writing.
- Coursework in propulsion, plasma physics, gas dynamics, electronics, and fluid mechanics.
- Experience supporting laboratory operations in high-vacuum test facilities.
- Strong written and oral communication skills; ability to work well in a team; organizational, time-management, and project-management skills; flexibility and adaptability; and interpersonal skills for coordinating work with internal and external organizations.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a clearance.
- Transcripts are required.
Nice To Haves
- GPA of 3.5 or higher.
- Active security clearance.
- Experience with compressed gases, cryogenic systems, and RF electronics.
- Experience with high-purity flow system components.
- Experience installing and operating load cells, thermocouples, pressure transducers, or flowmeters.
- Experience with NI LabVIEW, DAQ system development, and PLC programming.
- Experience with electrostatic or optical plasma diagnostics.
Responsibilities
- Develop, test, and apply electric propulsion technologies in support of national security and civil space programs.
- Lead and execute advanced propulsion research and development, including initiating experimental efforts from the ground up.
- Safely execute experiments in existing propulsion research facilities and laboratories.
- Conduct research that may involve high-power electric propulsion testing, air-breathing electric propulsion, electrostatic discharge testing, EMI/EMC of electric propulsion devices, multipactor, or plasma-material interaction.
- Coordinate efforts and work with internal and external organizations 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 with company-paid contributions of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service, plus matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested upon hire.
- Flexible spending accounts.
- Variable pay program for exceptional contributions.
- Relocation assistance.
- Professional growth and development programs.
- Education assistance programs.
- Inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
