Software Development Intern - Summer 2027
- Entry level
- Secret clearance
How this pay compares
This posting states $47.1k–$65.9k a year. Open software engineer jobs in Maryland post a median of $158k a year, the middle half $126k–$180k, across 13 jobs that state their pay, so this one is below the middle half of what they post.
About the job
Standard Job Description
Space is a critical domain, connecting our technologies, our security, and our humanity. While others view space as a destination, we see it as a realm of possibilities, where we can do more - we can innovate, invest, inspire, and integrate our capabilities to transform the future.
At Lockheed Martin Space, we aim to harness the full potential of space to cultivate innovation, reduce costs, and push the boundaries of what technology can achieve. We’re creating future-ready solutions, focusing on resiliency and urgency through our 21st Century Security® vision. We’re erasing boundaries and forming partnerships across industries and around the world. We’re advancing spacecraft and the workforce to fuel the next generation. And we’re reimagining how space can connect us, ensuring security and prosperity.
Join us in shaping a new era in space and find a career that's built for you.
The software development intern will support the Payload Software team for the Space Development Agency (SDA) T2 and T3 programs. Primary duties involve designing, implementing, and executing Python‑based test scripts that verify critical functionality of payload software. The intern will collaborate closely with the test engineers and source‑code developers, and will be expected to perform hands‑on testing with hardware in the Bethesda laboratory when required. The intern will have access to Lockheed Martin’s cutting-edge AI tools for test generation and test result processing to supplement his or her daily activities.
The SDA's motto of "semper citius" means "always faster". At Lockheed Martin, we want you to help us move at or ahead of the speed of threats to America because we know the warfighter is counting on us.
Secret clearance is preferred but not required.
Basic Qualifications
- Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- Software development experience in Python
Desired Skills
- Prior internship or project experience in software development or test automation.
- Software development experience in C/C++
- Experience in Linux based environments
- Experience with AI prompt engineering
- Experience with Agile development methodologies and collaboration tools (e.g., Jira, GitLab)
- Experience with hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HIL) testing or embedded systems.
- Knowledge of aerospace payload concepts or prior exposure to satellite software.
- Understanding of continuous‑integration/continuous‑deployment (CI/CD) pipelines.
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $22.66 - $31.67
At Lockheed Martin, we know mission success starts with taking care of our people. Our Total Rewards program is designed to attract top talent, support your well-being, and help you grow - both professionally and personally.
The salary range for this position is as listed on the requisition. Please note that the salary information listed is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market(work location) and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible work arrangements and schedules (e.g., 4x10), 401(k) match, Paid time off, Holidays, Parental Leave, EAP, Flexible Spending Accounts, Education Assistance, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability.
- Annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs may be offered depending on the position. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and can vary from year to year and are tied to a range of performance metrics.
- For (Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays. Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.
From Lockheed Martin's job posting, checked 10 Nov 2026. The employer's own page is the final word on requirements and availability.
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About Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin Space builds GPS and missile warning satellites, NASA's Orion crew capsule and deep space probes.
Pay on its listings: 98.9% of its open jobs state their pay
How it pays: Paid as an employee on Lockheed Martin's own payroll (salaried or hourly, as each posting states).
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