Space Nuclear Propulsion Materials Test & Evaluation Intern

Location: US-AL-Huntsville

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Overview

The Materials Science and Metallurgy Branch (EM31) at Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) in Huntsville, AL has an opening for a Space Nuclear Propulsion (SNP) Materials Test and Evaluation Intern. The SNP Materials Test and Evaluation Intern will support the documentation, analysis, and evaluation of advanced materials used in space nuclear propulsion systems. This role provides a unique opportunity to work alongside engineers and scientists developing cutting-edge tools and data infrastructure for materials research. Interns will have the opportunity to support human spaceflight projects such as the Space Launch System, the Human Lander System, and the Commercial Crew Program. These tasks will give the selected intern an opportunity to experience the full range of opportunities found in the Materials Science and Metallurgy branch. Be a part of our team, as we support the exciting challenge to return mankind back to the Moon and beyond.

Responsibilities

The Space Nuclear Propulsion Intern will

Gain fundamental understanding of materials science, aerospace engineering, propulsion technology and contribute to groundbreaking projects.

Assist with data collection, documentation, and interpretation of test results to evaluate material performance under extreme conditions.

Develop and implement data storage structures that promote accessibility, organization, and readability for cross-functional teams.

Lead a specific aspect of an ongoing project (area to be 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 ongoing design and analysis initiatives.

Help develop reports, technical documentation, and presentations that communicate results to internal stakeholders.

Organize and maintain project files, technical records, and documentation to support traceability and quality.

Work according to standard operating and safety procedures.

Collaborate on a multi-disciplinary team to achieve project success and delivery in a specified timescale.

Perform sample preparation for metallographic or ceramic analysis, including cutting, mounting, grinding, polishing, etching.

Support laboratory testing of materials of interest, including heat treatments and other alloy development techniques.

Assist with data collection, documentation, and interpretation of results to evaluate material microstructure, defects, phase distribution, and performance. Contribute to presentations, technical memos, and process improvement initiatives related to materials characterization and materials development.

Conduct laboratory testing under supervision, or after training with permission, such as:

Optical microscopy

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM/EDS)

Laser confocal microscopy

Hardness testing

Thermal analysis (DSC, TGA)

X-ray diffraction (XRD)

Utilize computers and computer software daily to generate reports, gather data and communicate test results.

Interface with Engineering and Science Services Capabilities Augmentation (ESSCA) engineers, ESSCA technicians, and NASA customers as part of their daily duties.

Qualifications

BS minimum requirement in Materials Science, Mechanical, Electrical or Aerospace Engineering or related STEM field from an accredited school of engineering.

A minimum of 0-5 years’ experience.

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship is required.
• Must be able to provide own transportation

Desired Experience

A highly qualified candidate will have experience with the following:

• Minimum GPA requirement 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Completion of courses 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, Heat Transfer
• Coding or programming experience (Python, MATLAB, Mathematica, Solid Works. FEA modeling etc.) is a plus but not required.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Strong interest in materials science, aerospace engineering, or related fields.

Physical Requirements: Requires sitting for extended periods of time in meetings with peers, management, and with our client at NASA facilities to discuss technical issues (20%). Requires sitting at a desk to write reports and perform engineering task activities (20%). Require