Space Nuclear Propulsion Materials Test & Evaluation Intern

Amentum•Huntsville, AL

8d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Materials Science and Metallurgy Branch (EM31) at Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, is seeking an intern to support documentation, analysis, and evaluation of advanced materials used in space nuclear propulsion systems. The intern will work alongside engineers and scientists developing tools and data infrastructure for materials research, with opportunities to support human spaceflight projects including the Space Launch System, Human Lander System, and Commercial Crew Program. The role offers practical experience in materials science, aerospace engineering, propulsion technology, materials characterization, and laboratory testing. The intern will collaborate with materials, mechanical, and manufacturing engineers, ESSCA engineers and technicians, and NASA customers. Work includes maintaining technical records, analyzing test results, communicating findings, and supporting research and development activities. The position is part-time and hybrid, with most duties performed onsite at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and some work from the employee’s home office.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science degree, at minimum, in Materials Science, Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace Engineering, or a related STEM field from an accredited school of engineering.
0–5 years of experience.
Proof of U.S. citizenship is required.
Must be able to provide own transportation.
Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, accurately, and promptly, verbally and in writing.
Ability to interact professionally with coworkers, management, and clients.
Ability to document findings and actions thoroughly.
Ability to operate a personal computer, telephone, copier, calculator, general office equipment, and materials processing and test equipment.
Ability to work in a laboratory environment and wear required personal protective equipment.

Nice To Haves

Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Coursework in any or all of the following: Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanics of Materials, High Temperature Materials, Materials for Extreme Environments, Nuclear Propulsion, Neutron Science and Reactor Physics, Rocket Propulsion I/II, Compressible Flow, or Heat Transfer.
Coding or programming experience such as Python, MATLAB, Mathematica, SolidWorks, or finite element analysis modeling; not required.
Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Strong interest in materials science, aerospace engineering, or related fields.

Responsibilities

Support data collection, documentation, and interpretation of test results to evaluate materials under extreme conditions.
Develop and implement data storage structures that improve accessibility, organization, and readability for cross-functional teams.
Lead a specific aspect of an ongoing project, with the area determined based on skills and interests.
Collaborate with materials, mechanical, and manufacturing engineers on research, development, and qualification programs.
Contribute to technical presentations, memos, and process improvement initiatives related to materials characterization and development.
Conduct research, gather technical data, and synthesize findings to inform design and analysis initiatives.
Help prepare reports, technical documentation, and presentations for internal stakeholders.
Organize and maintain project files, technical records, and documentation to support traceability and quality.
Follow standard operating and safety procedures and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to deliver project work on schedule.
Prepare samples for metallographic or ceramic analysis, including cutting, mounting, grinding, polishing, and etching.
Support laboratory testing of materials, including heat treatments and other alloy development techniques.
Assist with evaluating material microstructure, defects, phase distribution, and performance.
Conduct laboratory testing under supervision or, after training, with permission, including optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM/EDS), laser confocal microscopy, hardness testing, thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), and X-ray diffraction (XRD).
Use computers and software to generate reports, gather data, and communicate test results.
Interface with ESSCA engineers and technicians and NASA customers.
Communicate work, test status, test results, problems, and proposed actions to engineers, customers, and government representatives; thoroughly document findings and actions.