Intern (m/f/d) GNC - Reusable Launch Vehicles

Rocket Factory Augsburg AG; Bayern; On-site; EUR 12,000 - 19,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

International environment

Flexible hours

EGYM Wellpass

20 days vacation

Team events

Free parking

Job summary

Rocket Factory Augsburg invites an Intern in Flight Dynamics & GNC for Reusable Launch Vehicles to join an international, dynamic team in Augsburg, Germany. You will develop models and algorithms for entry and landing, validate with real hardware, and contribute to landing system design while writing in English.

Ideal candidates are pursuing a STEM degree with a passion for control, simulation, and software; knowledge of Matlab/Simulink and Python/C++ is highly valued, and flexible collaboration

Qualifications

• Enrolled in a Bachelor or Master in a relevant engineering discipline.
• Experience with numerical simulation, optimization or control algorithms (projects/competitions/industry).
• Background in modelling with Matlab/Simulink.

Responsibilities

• Develop multi-body models for entry, descent and landing dynamics and design guidance algorithms for real-time trajectory optimization.
• Develop optimal control allocation strategies across TVC, RCS and control surfaces under nonlinear aerodynamics.
• Build HIL test infrastructure to validate software on flight avionics and perform sensor architecture studies.
• Perform FMEA and Monte Carlo simulations with failure injections and health checks to trigger safe diversions.
• Architect ground systems and interfaces to support landing operations.

Skills

Numerical simulation

Optimization

Control algorithms

Python

C/C++

Git

Fluent English

Education

Bachelor or Master in Aerospace Eng / Electrical Eng / Mechanical Eng / Physics

Tools

Matlab

Simulink

Job description

Intern (m/f/d) GNC - Reusable Launch Vehicles

Augsburg, Bavaria, Germany

About Rocket Factory Augsburg

At Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA), we have one clear goal: to create low-cost, flexible, and reliable access to space. We specialize in building small launch vehicles designed to deploy satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and beyond. Together with you, we aim to revolutionize space services and help improve life on Earth. Sounds interesting? Then join our journey and become part of the team driving the New Space movement in Europe.

About the Team

Our international and agile team is searching for a motivated Intern in Flight Dynamics & G NC for Reusable Launch Vehicles . You enjoy working in a dedicated, dynamic and international environment that aims for high-performance engineering solutions in aerospace technology? Are you excited by the prospect of developing algorithms and testing flight software on real hardware to guide a first stage from re-entry to a precision landing ? Join our team and help shape the future of spaceflight.

Your Tasks

• Develop multi-body mathematical models for entry, descent and landing dynamics and design autonomous guidance algorithms for real-time trajectory optimization that ensures precision landing within operational limits
• Develop optimal control allocation strategies across TVC, RCS and aerodynamic control surfaces, managing highly non-linear aerodynamic regimes and cross-axis coupling during flight
• Design and build HIL test infrastructure to validate software on real flight avionics and conduct trade studies to select optimal landing sensor architectures and testing environments
• Perform FMEA, run extensive Monte Carlo simulations with failure injection and implement health-checks to trigger safe diversion trajectories away from the landing site if vehicle systems are compromised
• Architect ground systems and interfaces to support landing operations

Your Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in Bachelor or Master studies in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics or related discipline
• Demonstrated experience in numerical simulation, optimization or control algorithms (proven through academic projects, student competitions or prior industry experience)
• Background in mathematical modelling in Matlab and Simulink
• Experience working with Python, C/C++, Git
• Independent, hands-on mindset with a structured and methodical approach to problem-solving
• Fluent in oral and written English, as all engineering tasks, tools and documentation activities are conducted exclusively in English

We Offer

• Atmosphere: Experience life in an international & dynamic New Space start-up
• Flexibility: Fit your working schedule to your needs with flexible working hours
• Health: Sweat, stretch or squat it out with EGYM Wellpass
• Paid Time Off: 20 days annual leave and special leave days
• Team Culture: Join regular company and team events
• Parking: Free Parking for car and bike

Ready to take the next step?

Join RFA and help build one of Europe’s most efficient launch systems. Work alongside 300+ colleagues from over 40 countries and take ownership from day one.

If you’re looking to grow, take responsibility, and contribute to making space more accessible, we’d love to hear from you.