2027 Chemical Propulsion Graduate Intern

aero; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 91,693,000 - 108,886,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health care and wellness

Paid holidays, sick time, vacation

401(k) plan with company matching

Relocation assistance

Education assistance programs

Flexible spending accounts

Inclusive work environment

Job summary

The Aerospace Corporation, located in El Segundo, CA, seeks a Chemical Propulsion Graduate Intern to contribute to propulsion R&D and lab experiments within the Propulsion Science Department. The role emphasizes hands-on work with gas/liquid/solid/hybrid propulsion systems and safety in laboratory R&D environments.

Ideal candidates are pursuing advanced degrees in aerospace/chemical/mechanical engineering with coursework in propulsion and combustion, and have experience with MATLAB, Python,

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled full-time in an accredited college/university pursuing a Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering or related discipline
• Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term
• 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, combustion, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and chemistry
• Experience supporting laboratory test operations and safety protocols
• Authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsor
• Transcripts required

Responsibilities

• Develop, test, and apply chemical propulsion technologies for national security and civil space programs
• Lead and execute advanced propulsion R&D
• Safely conduct experiments in propulsion facilities and labs
• Explore booster-class liquid-propellant engines, in-space propulsion, solid motors, detonation-based propulsion
• Duties may change; mentorship provided

Skills

Strong communication

Team player

Project management

Adaptable

Interpersonal skills

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace/Mechanical/Chemical Eng

Tools

MATLAB

SolidWorks

Python

LabVIEW

Job description

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 a Chemical Propulsion Graduate Intern with a strong foundation in combustion, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics, as well as demonstrated hands‑on experience safely conducting experiments with gaseous, liquid, solid, or hybrid rocket propulsion systems in laboratory R&D environments. Our section addresses a broad range of launch and spacecraft propulsion challenges 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 chemical 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: booster-class liquid-propellant rocket engines, in-space chemical propulsion systems, solid rocket motors, detonation-based propulsion, ordnance (explosives), propellant chemistry, propellant material compatibility, combustion diagnostics
• 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, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering or 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, combustion, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and chemistry
• Experience supporting laboratory test operations and familiarity with safety protocols
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. and not require employer sponsorship for a work visa now or in the future
• 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 chemical laboratory safety, vacuum systems, high-pressure compressed gases, or cryogenic systems
• Experience with flow system components, including valves, pumps, regulators, and piping / tubing
• Experience with installation and operation of load cells, pressure transducers, thermocouples, accelerometers, strain gauges, or flowmeters
• Experience with NI LabVIEW, DAQ system development, and PLC programming

• Experience with optical and/or laser diagnostic techniques for combustion applications

Temporary housing assistance is not available.

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 - $38.00Pay 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 Strategically
• Lead Change
• Engage with Impact
• Foster Innovation
• Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

• 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company‑paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

• Flexible spending accounts

• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

• Relocation assistance

• Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

• Education assistance programs

• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an equalopportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color,religion,geneticinformation, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you’re an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at [e-mail]. You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.