Mechanical Engineering Intern

Job Purpose and Primary Objectives

Benchmark Space Systems is looking for a Mechanical Engineering Intern to join our team for the summer of 2027.

In this role, you will work closely with engineers to design, build, and test the next generation of in-space propulsion products for small satellites and other missions. Interns will gain valuable knowledge in industry best practices, use of engineering software, and documenting and presenting engineering results.

About Benchmark

At Benchmark Space Systems, we’re pioneering the future of in-space mobility. Our propulsion technologies provide satellites the ability to maneuver, avoid collisions, and maximize mission potential - all while contributing to a safer, more sustainable space environment.

Backed by recent funding and a growing slate of new flight contracts for government and commercial customers, we’re building a workplace where bold ideas and passionate people thrive. Engineers, innovators, and problem-solvers at Benchmark tackle some of the toughest challenges in spaceflight, working together to turn cutting-edge concepts into real-world solutions. If you're ready to help shape the next era of spaceflight, there's never been a better time to join Benchmark Space Systems.

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:

• Under the supervision of senior engineers, develop component level mechanical designs on active contracts.
• Create component and system level mechanical drawings for contracts, as needed.
• Perform high level analysis or hand calculations to validate design concepts.
• Collaborate with Analysis and Test Engineers to validate designs.
• Work with an interdisciplinary engineering team to solve day-to-day challenges on contracts.
• Contribute to all aspects of the design process including requirements development, design reviews, component sourcing, test plan development, and design revision.

Education and/or Experience

• Candidates must be enrolled in an accredited college or university and seeking a degree in mechanical/aerospace engineering, or a closely related field.
• Previous internship or research experience in the space industry is a plus but not required.
• U.S. Person Requirement: Due to the nature of the work and access to export-controlled information, applicants must qualify as a U.S. Person under U.S. export control laws. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position now or in the future.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

What you bring to the position, or have the ability to swiftly learn and be successful in:

• Proficiency with CAD software (SolidWorks preferred).
• Experience generating engineering drawings and models for production.
• Some exposure to basic mechanical analysis, including both hand calculations and use of simulation tools (e.g. SolidWorks Simulation, ANSYS).
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multi-disciplinary team on system requirements and design development.
• 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 chemical propulsion or small satellite technologies.
• Aerospace, rocketry, or other engineering club experience.
• Experience working on a project that produced hardware for design verification.

Benefits

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

Physical Requirements/Working Conditions

While performing duties of this job, the employee is predominantly functioning in a sedentary light office position with high frequency of digital communication, keyboarding, and computer.

Benchmark Space Systems is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive, innovative environment with the best employees. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please contact us at careers @benchmark-space.com