2025 Chemical 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.

At Aerospace, we are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace for all employees to share in our common passion and aspiration – to carry out a mission much bigger than ourselves.

The Aerospace Corporation is hiring a Graduate Chemical Propulsion Intern.

The Aerospace Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) is a diverse scientific organization that provides a broad and innovative research and development backplane for a growing space enterprise.  PSL’s impact is grown through a diverse research portfolio that blends foundational scientific research with cutting-edge technology development to serve a broad customer base. PSL’s exclusive ability to work with all stakeholders: (government, industry, and academia) enables us to provide novel solutions to the most challenging issues in current and future technology applications. The strength of PSL comes from the combination of cutting-edge tools and facilities, a vast repository of space-system knowledge, and the extensive technical expertise of our people. We harness these tools and expertise in over 150 different laboratories to tackle the new challenges for the space enterprise. 

The Propulsion Science Department (PSD) is looking for an ambitious Chemical Propulsion scientist/engineer to join our group supporting customers in the rapidly evolving space business, particularly in experimental research and development in propulsion and high energy systems. We solve a wide range of chemical propulsion issues at various stages of application, from proof of concept to troubleshooting flight systems.

Work Model

This position will be located 100% onsite in El Segundo, CA

What You’ll Be Doing 

• Researching areas of interest may include green propellants, hybrid rockets, ordnance (explosives), high-pressure combustion systems, material compatibility, LNG composition properties, high-pressure oxygen system design and material exposure, gas-phase kinetics.

• Participating with an interdisciplinary team in ongoing research or technical programs with academic collaboration partners

• Applying standard techniques and procedures to carry out a series of prescribed scientific and/or engineering tasks

• Training and mentorship will be provided

What Corporate Skills You’ll Bring 

• Strong written and oral communication skills

• Must work well in a team environment

• Must possess strong 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 fulltime in an accredited college/university program pursuing a Master's or PhD degree in aerospace, mechanical, or chemical engineering or related discipline

• Sophomore class standing completed by internship start date

• Software skills such as LabView, Visual Basic, MatLab, Python, SolidWorks or equivalents are required.

• Minimum GPA 3.5 

• Experience with laboratory data acquisition equipment and sensors is required.

• Chemical laboratory experience and experience writing laboratory reports is required.

• This position requires the 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 required 

How You Can Stand Out  

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

• GPA of 3.75 or higher 

• Active security clearance 

• Hands-on lab experience with the research areas of interest listed above.

• Transcripts are required for this position

Temporary housing assistance is not available. 

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