2027 Electric Propulsion & Plasma Science Graduate Intern

Location: El Segundo, CA

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) supports the effective and timely development and operation of national security systems through scientific research and the application of advanced technologies. PSL has more than 150 specialized laboratories used to test, analyze, and troubleshoot virtually every aspect of rocket and satellite system design, development, construction, deployment, and operation. The expertise of the laboratories’ technical staff allows PSL to stay abreast of new technological developments and program support issues associated with rapidly evolving space systems.

The Propulsion Science Department (PSD) is seeking an Electric Propulsion & Plasma Science Graduate Intern with a strong foundation in plasma physics, electric engineering, and propulsion, as well as demonstrated hands-on experience performing plasma science or electric propulsion experiments in vacuum facilities within a laboratory R&D environment. Our section addresses a broad range of in-space propulsion challenges and plasma phenomena across all phases of development—from technology proof-of-concept through anomaly resolution of propulsion systems currently in service.

Highlights of our lab's capabilities can be seen here: Virtual Tour

The selected candidate will be required to work full time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Development, test, and application of electric propulsion technologies in support of national security and civil space programs
• Lead and execute advanced propulsion research and development, often initiating experimental efforts from the ground up
• Responsible for safely executing experiments within our existing propulsion research facilities and laboratories
• Research areas of interest may include: high-power EP testing, air-breathing EP, electrostatic discharge testing, EMI/EMC of EP devices, multipactor, plasma-material interaction
• Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed; training and mentorship will be provided

What Corporate Skills You’ll Bring

• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Must work well in a team environment
• Possess organizational, time management and project management skills
• Demonstrate flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational needs
• Interpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizations

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements

• Currently enrolled full-time in an accredited college/university program pursuing a Master's or Ph.D. degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related discipline
• Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term and ability to return to a Master's or Ph.D. degree program full-time after completion of the internship
• Undergraduate degree completed by 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
• This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
• Transcripts required

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these

• GPA 3.5 or higher
• Active security clearance
• Experience with compressed gases, cryogenic systems, and RF electronics
• Experience with high-purity flow system components
• Experience with installation and operation of load cells, thermocouples, pressure transducers, or flowmeters
• Experience with NI LabVIEW, DAQ system development, and PLC programming
• Experience with electrostatic or optical plasma diagnostics

We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business.  The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below.  Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

(Min - Max)

$32.00 - $48.00

Pay Basis: Hourly

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

Operate Strategi