2026 Electric Propulsion Graduate Intern

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 Electric Propulsion & Plasma Science section focuses on experimentally studying electric propulsion and other low-temperature plasma space technologies. This includes performing experiments to resolve flight anomalies, as well as characterizing commercial EP devices using our extensive plasma physics expertise. With a range of test facilities at our disposal, including our world-class EP3 chamber, we are equipped to study not only low-power devices like electrosprays but also high-power (>10 kW) systems. In support of flight programs, the section also investigates other plasma-adjacent phenomena like electrostatic discharge (ESD), sputtering, multipactor breakdown, and other forms of plasma-material interaction.The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.What You'll Be DoingProject work will include research on electric propulsion systems and the development of diagnostics and facilities for their characterization. Work may also include performing tests on radio frequency (rf) and microwave hardware.Successful candidate will also investigate basic physics of plasmas and plasma devices.Participates with an interdisciplinary team in ongoing research or technical programs with academic collaboration partnersApplies standard techniques and procedures to carry out a series of prescribed scientific and/or engineering tasksDuties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as neededTraining and mentorship will be providedWhat Corporate Skills You'll BringStrong written and oral communication skillsMust work well in a team environmentPossess organizational, time management and project management skillsDemonstrate flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational needInterpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizationsWhat You'll Need To Be SuccessfulCurrently enrolled fulltime in an accredited college/university program pursuing a Master's or Ph.D. degree in physics, aerospace, mechanical or electrical engineering or related disciplineAvailability 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 internshipUndergraduate degree completed by internship start dateMinimum GPA of 3.0Familiarity with data analysis, MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, and/or report writingBasic experience with hand toolsBasic experience with electronicsThis position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.TranscriptsHow You Can Stand OutGPA 3.5 or higherActive security clearanceCoursework in physics, thermodynamics, and electrical engineering is strongly preferredStrong E&M background is highly preferableExperience with laboratory data acquisition equipment and sensors is highly desiredSoftware skills such as LabView, Visual Basic, MATLAB, Python, SolidWorks are desirableTemporary housing assistance is not availableWe 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)$ $48.00Pay Basis: HourlyLeadership CompetenciesOur 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 StrategicallyLead ChangeEngage with ImpactFoster InnovationDeliver ResultsWays We Reward Our EmployeesDuring 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 plansPaid holidays, sick time, and vacationStandard and alternate work schedules, including telework options401(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 hireFlexible spending accountsVariable pay program for exceptional contributionsRelocation assistanceProfessional growth and development programs to help advance your careerEducation assistance programsAn inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respectWe 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 CommitmentThe Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity 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, genetic information, 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 or by email at . 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