Propulsion and Fluids Intern

Trueanomalyinc; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Housing stipend

Job summary

True Anomaly invites motivated students to join an internship program focused on propulsion and fluids testing for spacecraft. You will work with propulsion and fluids engineers to support hardware tests, instrumentation, and data analysis in a fast‑paced startup setting.

Experience with MATLAB/Python and data acquisition is beneficial; on-site work in Long Beach or Centennial is required. Fall program runs Sep–Dec 2026 with potential continuation based on performance.

Qualifications

• Enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's in aerospace, mechanical, chemical engineering.
• Completed coursework in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or propulsion (preferred).
• Strong interest in spacecraft propulsion or fluid systems.
• Basic understanding of engineering principles, test methods, and data analysis.
• Ability to work safely around test equipment and follow safety procedures.
• Hands-on work mindset including PPE use and outdoor work readiness.
• U.S. Citizenship required; must be able to work full time on-site in Centennial, CO or Long Beach, CA until Dec 2026.
• Must provide own transportation.

Responsibilities

• Assist test engineers with test setup, instrumentation installation, and hardware integration.
• Support propulsion and fluids test operations including pressure, leak, flow, and functional tests.
• Help with data acquisition setup, sensor calibration, and test instrumentation checkout.
• Collect and preliminarily analyze pressure, temperature, flow, and performance data.
• Help develop test procedures, work instructions, and documentation.
• Support assembly of ground support equipment and test fixtures.
• Assist with post-test inspections, anomaly documentation, and reports.
• Participate in readiness reviews, safety briefings, and cross-functional meetings.
• Maintain test equipment and keep the site organized.

Skills

Aerospace engineering

Propulsion

Test data analysis

Lab equipment

Safety procedures

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in aerospace/mechanical/chemical engineering

Tools

MATLAB

Python

Excel

LabVIEW

Job description

Space is a warfighting domain. True Anomaly seeks those with the talent and ambition to build the technology that secures it.

OUR MISSION

True Anomaly delivers decisive capabilities for space superiority. We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors — enabling the U.S. and its Allies to secure the space environment and counter threats from the ultimate high ground.

OUR VALUES

• Be the offset.We create asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity.
• What would it take?We challenge assumptions to deliver ambitious results.
• It’s the people.Our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together.

YOUR MISSION

We are seeking highly motivated Propulsion and Fluids Test Interns to support spacecraft propulsion and fluid systems test operations. As an intern, you will work alongside propulsion test engineers, fluids engineers, and test technicians to support the execution of test campaigns for propulsion hardware and fluid systems. This internship offers hands‑on experience with rocket propulsion testing, fluid systems, test instrumentation, and data analysis in a fast‑paced startup environment. You will gain exposure to the full test lifecycle from planning through execution and data analysis, contributing to mission‑critical spacecraft hardware development.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist test engineers with test setup, instrumentation installation, and hardware integration in preparation for propulsion and fluids test campaigns.
• Support execution of propulsion test operations including pressure testing, leak testing, flow testing, and functional performance tests under the supervision of test engineers.
• Assist with data acquisition system setup, sensor calibration, and test instrumentation checkout.
• Collect, organize, and perform preliminary analysis of test data including pressure, temperature, flow, and performance measurements.
• Help develop test procedures, work instructions, and test documentation under engineer guidance.
• Support assembly and configuration of ground support equipment, test fixtures, and fluid systems hardware.
• Assist with post-test hardware inspections, anomaly documentation, and test report generation.
• Participate in test readiness reviews, safety briefings, and cross‑functional team meetings.
• Support maintenance of test equipment, tooling inventory, and test site cleanliness and organization.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program in aerospace, mechanical, chemical engineering, or related technical discipline.
• Completed coursework in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or propulsion systems (preferred but not required).
• Strong interest in spacecraft propulsion, rocket engines, or fluid systems.
• Basic understanding of engineering principles, test methods, and data analysis.
• Ability to work safely around test equipment and follow safety procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written procedures.
• Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Willingness to work hands‑on in a test facility environment including wearing PPE and working outdoors.
• U.S. Citizenship required due to government contracts.
• Must be able to work full time (40 hours per week), on‑site in Centennial, CO or Long Beach, CA until December 2026.
  
  • Fall Intern Program will run September - December 2026
• Must be able to provide own transportation.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Junior or Senior undergraduate student, or graduate student in aerospace, mechanical, or chemical engineering.
• Coursework or project experience in propulsion systems, rocket engines, or fluid dynamics.
• Experience with data analysis tools (MATLAB, Python, Excel) or data acquisition software (LabVIEW).
• Hands‑on experience through student projects, competitions (AIAA, rocketry clubs), or previous internships.
• Familiarity with CAD software, engineering drawings, or P&ID diagrams.
• Knowledge of pressure systems, fluid flow, or thermodynamic cycles.
• Experience with instrumentation (pressure transducers, thermocouples, flow meters) through lab courses or projects.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and eagerness to learn in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to commit to a full‑time internship (40 hours/week) for the duration of the program (typically 10-12 weeks for summer, longer for fall/spring co‑ops).

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

• Hands‑on experience with spacecraft propulsion testing and fluid systems in a real operational environment.
• Exposure to the full test lifecycle from planning and setup through execution and data analysis.
• Mentorship from experienced propulsion and test engineers working on cutting‑edge space technology.
• Practical experience with test instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and ground support equipment.
• Opportunity to contribute to mission‑critical hardware development for national security space missions.
• Experience working in a fast‑paced startup environment with significant responsibility and ownership.
• Networking opportunities within the aerospace and defense industry.
• Potential for full‑time employment upon graduation based on performance and business needs.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• Hourly Rate: $28-$32 per hour

Compensation will be commensurate with education level and relevant experience. This internship may be eligible for relocation assistance or housing stipend depending on location and program duration.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

True Anomaly is committed to equal employment opportunity on any basis protected by applicable state and federal laws. If you have a disability or additional need that requires accommodation, please do not hesitate to let us.