Propulsion and Fluids Intern

True Anomaly • Long Beach, CA

5d • Onsite

About The Position

Space is a warfighting domain. True Anomaly seeks those with the talent and ambition to build the technology that secures it. OUR MISSION True Anomaly delivers decisive capabilities for space superiority. We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors — enabling the U.S. and its Allies to secure the space environment and counter threats from the ultimate high ground. OUR VALUES Be the offset. We create asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity. What would it take? We challenge assumptions to deliver ambitious results. It’s the people. Our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together. YOUR MISSION We are seeking highly motivated Propulsion and Fluids Test Interns to support spacecraft propulsion and fluid systems test operations. As an intern, you will work alongside propulsion test engineers, fluids engineers, and test technicians to support the execution of test campaigns for propulsion hardware and fluid systems. This internship offers hands-on experience with rocket propulsion testing, fluid systems, test instrumentation, and data analysis in a fast-paced startup environment. You will gain exposure to the full test lifecycle from planning through execution and data analysis, contributing to mission-critical spacecraft hardware development.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program in aerospace, mechanical, chemical engineering, or related technical discipline.
• Completed coursework in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or propulsion systems (preferred but not ).
• Strong interest in spacecraft propulsion, rocket engines, or fluid systems.
• Basic understanding of engineering principles, test methods, and data analysis.
• Ability to work safely around test equipment and follow safety procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written procedures.
• Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Willingness to work hands-on in a test facility environment including wearing PPE and working outdoors.
• U.S. Citizenship due to government contracts.
• Must be able to work full time (40 hours per week), on-site in Centennial, CO or Long Beach, CA until December 2026.
• Fall Intern Program will run September - December 2026
• Must be able to provide own transportation.

Nice To Haves

• Junior or Senior undergraduate student, or graduate student in aerospace, mechanical, or chemical engineering.
• Coursework or project experience in propulsion systems, rocket engines, or fluid dynamics.
• Experience with data analysis tools (MATLAB, Python, Excel) or data acquisition software (LabVIEW).
• Hands-on experience through student projects, competitions (AIAA, rocketry clubs), or previous internships.
• Familiarity with CAD software, engineering drawings, or P&ID diagrams.
• Knowledge of pressure systems, fluid flow, or thermodynamic cycles.
• Experience with instrumentation (pressure transducers, thermocouples, flow meters) through lab courses or projects.
• Strong problem-solving skills and eagerness to learn in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to commit to a full-time internship (40 hours/week) for the duration of the program (typically 10-12 weeks for summer, longer for fall/spring co-ops).

Responsibilities

• Assist test engineers with test setup, instrumentation installation, and hardware integration in preparation for propulsion and fluids test campaigns.
• Support execution of propulsion test operations including pressure testing, leak testing, flow testing, and functional performance tests under the supervision of test engineers.
• Assist with data acquisition system setup, sensor calibration, and test instrumentation checkout.
• Collect, organize, and perform preliminary analysis of test data including pressure, temperature, flow, and performance measurements.
• Help develop test procedures, work instructions, and test documentation under engineer guidance.
• Support assembly and configuration of ground support equipment, test fixtures, and fluid systems hardware.
• Assist with post-test hardware inspections, anomaly documentation, and test report generation.
• Participate in test readiness reviews, safety briefings, and cross-functional team meetings.
• Support maintenance of test equipment, tooling inventory, and test site cleanliness and organization.

Benefits

• Hourly Rate: $28-$32 per hour
• Compensation will be commensurate with education level and relevant experience.
• This internship may be eligible for relocation assistance or housing stipend depending on location and program duration.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed