2027 Internship - Aerospace & Mechanical Systems

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 31,000 - 66,000; Part time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) offers an internship for engineering and science students. You will join a hands-on, collaborative team to tackle real-world challenges in aerospace and defense, contributing to design, modeling, and analysis efforts while gaining exposure to both commercial and custom computational tools.

As an intern, you will collaborate with engineers and scientists, develop skills in areas like finite element analysis, propulsion, and materials

Qualifications

• Pursuing a degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, or Chemistry (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD).
• Maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher on a 4.0 scale.
• Eligibility requires U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain Interim Secret clearance by start date with potential to obtain Secret clearance.

Skills

Strong communication

Curiosity

Initiative

Team collaboration

Education

Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering (B.S./M.S./Ph.D.)

Physics

Materials Science

Chemistry

Job description

Description

Are you ready to put your engineering skills to the test on real-world challenges? Join us in tackling some of today’s toughest problems in aerospace and defense like designing systems for hypersonic flight and advancing technologies that protect our nation and service members. As an intern, you won’t just observe, you’ll be part of a hands‑on, collaborative team of engineers and scientists. You’ll gain experience in areas such as mechanical design, single and multi‑body dynamics, finite element analysis (FEA), propulsion, multidisciplinary design optimization, and materials science. Our team influences the design of flight hardware prototypes and develops cutting‑edge simulation tools. You’ll work alongside experts who model complex physics‑based problems and leverage both commercial and custom computational tools, giving you the chance to build skills that go far beyond the classroom.

Qualifications

• Are working toward a degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, or Chemistry (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD).
• Have at least a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale and a strong academic foundation.
• Bring energy, curiosity, and initiative, plus solid communication skills to collaborate with teammates or tackle projects on your own.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Secret level clearance. If you are selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

About Us

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world‑class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

Why Work at APL?

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short‑term disability, long‑term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact [e-mail].

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL’s good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign‑on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short‑term disability, long‑term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Minimum Rate

$22.60 Hourly

Maximum Rate

$47.95 Hourly