Spacecraft Test Engineering Intern (Summer 2027)

Muon Space • San Jose, CA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Assembly, Integration and Test (AIT) team validates spacecraft hardware through unit acceptance testing and spacecraft-level integration testing. The intern supports the design, setup, and execution of tests for spacecraft subsystems, collaborating with engineers and technicians to develop test procedures, analyze data, and help ensure satellites operate reliably in the extreme conditions of space. The role provides direct mentorship and the opportunity to contribute to Muon’s programs in a startup environment.

Internships take place between May and September depending on university schedules. The position is full-time and on-site in San Jose, California. The hourly pay range is $40 for bachelor’s students, $45 for master’s students, and $50 for PhD students.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Aerospace, Systems, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
• Strong understanding of engineering fundamentals across multiple disciplines, such as mechanical, electrical, and software engineering.
• Demonstrated proficiency in a programming or scripting language for hardware interfacing and data analysis, such as Python, MATLAB/Simulink, Julia, or C++.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to approach complex, multidisciplinary challenges from a first-principles perspective.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative team environment.
• Must meet the stated U.S. export-control eligibility requirements for access to export-controlled information.

Nice To Haves

• Previous internship or co-op experience.
• Previous experience on technical project teams, such as a rocket club, CubeSat, Formula SAE, or Solar Car team.
• Knowledge of a satellite subsystem or domain, such as GNC, RF communications, or power systems.
• Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL/HITL) testing or system integration.

Responsibilities

• Assist in developing and updating test processes for satellite-level and unit-level testing, including thermal vacuum, vibration, EMI, and functional testing.
• Update existing test stations to improve usability, streamline workflows, and increase testing efficiency.
• Support development of basic automation for lab test equipment used for hardware testing.
• Execute test plans under engineer supervision, including functional checkout, environmental stress testing, and troubleshooting.
• Collect and process test data, perform preliminary analysis, and generate summary reports.
• Support integration of satellite hardware and ground support equipment in cleanroom and lab environments.

Benefits

• Equity compensation for full-time employees.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Short- and long-term disability insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Three weeks of paid vacation for new employees.
• 12 paid holidays.
• Unlimited sick time.
• Paid parental leave.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern