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Propulsion Engineering Intern

Benchmark Space Systems

Propulsion Engineering Intern

Pleasanton, CA
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    JOB PURPOSE AND PRIMARY OBJECTIVES:

    Benchmark is looking for a Propulsion Engineering intern to join our team for the summer of 2023. In this role, you will work closely with engineers to design, build, and test technologies supporting the next-generation of in-space propulsion products for small satellites. Interns will gain valuable knowledge in industry best practices, propulsion engineering and propellant chemistry, use of engineering software, and documenting and presenting engineering results. Candidates will be matched up with a mentor in our Pleasanton, CA office and will learn from engineers across the organization.

    ABOUT BENCHMARK:

    Benchmark Space Systems is a leader in small satellite propulsion systems and in-space mobility services. We are focused on providing the most cost-effective propulsion solution for our clients/partner's Small Satellite mission needs, from simple orbit adjustments to high-agility maneuvers. Our patented and proprietary innovations have been specifically designed to improve safety and capability for spacecraft ranging from 3U through ESPA class. Specifically, our mission is to improve our client's/partner's missions through collaborative partnership and creative in-space mobility product solutions that are responsive to the safety, reliability, and cost-of-performance requirements of fundamental or advanced SmallSat and Rideshare missions.

    MEASUREMENTS OF SUCCESS/PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

    At its core, Benchmark is an entrepreneurial, fast paced organization. In this environment, we need all employees to solve problems, not be afraid to ask questions and be able to work with and help colleagues in different departments and positions by digging in and working on other tasks as needed/assigned depending on business needs. With that said, there are primary job responsibilities and measurements of success for this position, which are:

    EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

    • Candidates must be enrolled in an accredited college or university and seeking a degree in physics, engineering, chemistry, computer science.  
    • Previous internship or research experience in the space industry is a plus, but not required.

    KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

    What you bring to the position, or have the ability to swiftly learn and be successful in some or all of the following categories:

    • Experience using and maintaining analytical chemistry instruments and apparatus such as vacuum filtration, titration, densitometers, spectroscopy, refractometers.
    • Chemical handling experience including knowledge of acids, alkalis, solvents, oxidizers and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
    • Hands-on test and debugging skills in the lab, including use of standard equipment such as logic-analyzers, oscilloscopes, function generators, power supplies, multimeters, and data acquisition systems.
    • Design and fabricate experimental apparatus to run a variety of physical tests.
    • Experience with a 3D CAD software such as SolidWorks, CATIA, Fusion 360 or other.
    • Basic understanding of GD&T, manufacturing methods, and design for manufacturing best principles.
    • Hands on experience or working knowledge of fluid systems, including compressible flow and combustion mechanics.
    • Ability to perform first order analysis of high-performance thermal environments.
    • Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multi-disciplinary and geographically dispersed team.
    • Ability, agility, and can-do attitude to work in an entrepreneurial, fast-paced, and matrixed cross-functional environment.
    • Uses effective written, visual presentation, and oral strategies to communicate technical problems and concepts to a range of technical and non-technical audiences.

    WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT:

    • Previous internship or research experience related to small satellite technologies.
    • Have worked on a project that produced flight-hardware.

    BENEFITS:

    • Housing assistance available for out-of-state candidates.
    • Interns will be matched with a mentor in chosen area of interest/study.
    • All interns work directly with multiple engineers and will participate in the design process.
    • Flexible scheduling.

    PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORKING CONDITIONS:

    • While performing duties of this job, the employee must possess the ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds and work for long periods of time while standing.
    • Working with hazardous chemicals.