Graduate Electric Propulsion & Plasma Intern

The Aerospace Corporation; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 44,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

The Aerospace Corporation in El Segundo, CA, is seeking an Electric Propulsion & Plasma Science Graduate Intern. You will join a team focused on electric propulsion research, testing, and development in vacuum facilities, contributing to national security and civil space programs.

The role requires enrollment in a Master’s or PhD program, full-time availability for 10+ weeks, and the ability to obtain a security clearance. Strong communication and teamwork are essential.

Qualifications

• Enrollment in a Master’s or Ph.D. program in a related engineering field.
• Available to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks and return to degree after 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.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance; US citizenship required; transcripts required.

Responsibilities

• Develop, test, and apply 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.
• Safely executing experiments within propulsion research facilities and laboratories.
• Research areas may include high-power EP testing, air-breathing EP, EMI/EMC of EP devices, multipactor, plasma‑material interaction.
• Training and mentorship will be provided.

Skills

Strong communication

Teamwork

Education

Master's or PhD in Aerospace/Mechanical/Electrical Engineering or Applied Physics

Tools

MATLAB

SolidWorks

Python

LabVIEW

Report writing

Job description

The Aerospace Corporation in El Segundo, CA, is seeking an Electric Propulsion & Plasma Science Graduate Intern. You will join a team focused on electric propulsion research, testing, and development in vacuum facilities, contributing to national security and civil space programs.

The role requires enrollment in a Master’s or PhD program, full-time availability for 10+ weeks, and the ability to obtain a security clearance. Strong communication and teamwork are essential.