Structural Analysis Engineer Internship (Path to Full Time Hire)

Space Kinetic•El Segundo, CA

4h•$20 - $30•Onsite

About The Position

Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations – one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost, operationally flexible, attritable, distributed) to space missions while reducing the ecosystem's reliance on consumable fuel. We are focused on creating something entirely different – an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head-on. Our goal is to move away from one-to-one space architectures – where each satellite in a constellation has one (or a small # of) primary payloads attached to the bus -- and unlock a ‘one-to-many’ system, where each satellite has a large number of payloads which can be deployed from their host spacecraft at high velocities without firing a thruster. This is not a role for someone looking for a traditional 40-hour work week. Space Kinetic is building ambitious, first-of-its-kind technology, and that requires urgency, ownership, and a high level of commitment to changing the foundational assumptions for everything we do in space. Space Kinetic’s internship program is designed to identify top early-career talent for potential full-time roles. Over the three-month program, interns are paired with a mentor, assigned one to three meaningful projects, and provide monthly progress updates to the Leadership team. Interns who demonstrate strong performance, ownership, and alignment with Space Kinetic’s mission may receive a full-time offer upon successful completion of the internship. As a Structural Analysis Engineer Intern, this position will assist in structural analysis model intake and build-out to test correlation and flight readiness. Be a driving force for continuous improvement of the facility while working with all levels of the organization. Interns will be provided with training and mentorship that will translate to real-world skills and experiences. As an Intern you will support the Engineering team to help design and build prototypes for Space Kinetic’s core technology to achieve our mission of a flight demo within the next 2 years in a fast-paced startup environment. This internship is a paid position with both full and part-time employment opportunities available. These roles will be open within a rolling start and end timeframe.

Requirements

Currently enrolled for a Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Structural Engineering degree from an accredited college or university.
Must be a recent college graduate OR graduate within the last semester of your program.
Analytical, problem-solving, and electrical skills are required
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, self-driven, rapidly growing entrepreneurial workplace
Ability to work with minimal direction or support and to learn quickly; strong analytical skills; creative and innovative thinking; detail-oriented; calm under pressure; commitment to follow-through; enthusiastic with a talent for motivating others; receptive to criticism and open to others' ideas; and effective in written communication.
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder).
Ability to maintain or obtain Government Security Clearance.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with scripting in Python or MATLAB for automation of FEM workflows and post-processing.
Hands-on experience supporting vibration, acoustic, or shock testing, including fixture design and instrumentation planning.
Passion for the commercial and government space industry.
Passion for spacecraft or launch vehicle system development.

Responsibilities

Assist in structural analysis model intake and build-out to test correlation and flight readiness.
Be a driving force for continuous improvement of the facility while working with all levels of the organization.
Support the Engineering team to help design and build prototypes for Space Kinetic’s core technology to achieve our mission of a flight demo within the next 2 years in a fast-paced startup environment.