2026 Mechanical Systems Undergraduate 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.

The Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) sits at the center of the ideas and data behind current and future systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, and test; and operational support. Comprised primarily of highly trained mechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD provides national expertise in the areas of vehicle engineering; guidance, navigation, and controls; robotics; electro-mechanical devices; embedded systems; fluid mechanics; propulsion; thermal control; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments.

The Mechanical Systems Department (MSD) team has 20-25 engineers responsible for providing technical mission assurance support to ensure the integrity and reliable operation of moving mechanical assemblies (MMAs) and explosive devices used during separation and deployment events of space vehicles, launch vehicles, and missile systems. The Space Mechanisms Section is responsible for the evaluation of requirements, design, analysis, and testing of space vehicle MMAs in accordance with industry standards. This section works closely and coordinates with other Aerospace technical disciplines, program offices, and contractors in support of our customer’s mission needs.

As an Undergraduate Intern within the Space Mechanisms Section, you will work with the section managers and other engineering departments to conduct multi-disciplinary analyses that ensure mission success for current and future missions. This position leverages experience in the areas of moving mechanical assemblies, deployment and separation systems, and explosive devices, to support our programs and departmental responsibilities.

The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.

What You’ll Be Doing 

• Perform analyses and modeling of moving mechanical assemblies, deployment, and separation systems
• Perform laboratory activities, including planning, executing, and analyzing test data
• Prepare and provide reports and briefings to customers and other stakeholders
• Work closely with department technical staff and management for training and mentorship to resolve technical issues

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 need 
• 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 Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace 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 Bachelor's degree program full-time after completion of the internship
• Sophomore class standing completed by internship start date
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Courses taken in Mechanical Systems, Dynamics, Heat Transfer
• Experience with CAD (SolidWorks or equivalent)
• Experience with finite element analysis
• Experience with Python, MATLAB
• Experience with data acquisition software (LabVIEW or equivalent)
• Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
• This 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.
• Transcripts provided

How You Can Stand Out 

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: 

• Junior class standing completed by internship start date
• Desire to pursue graduate degree after completion of Bachelor's degree
• GPA of 3.5 or higher
• Experience with designing, analyzing, testing, or