Software Engineering Intern

Job Purpose and Primary Objectives

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

In this role, you will work closely with the Avionics engineering team to design, build, and test electronics for satellite propulsion systems. Interns will gain valuable knowledge and experience in industry best-practices, use of design software, documentation, and presenting engineering work to cross-functional teams.

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:

• Develop and maintain internal software tools that support avionics design, test, and analysis workflows.
• Build and improve data logging and databasing infrastructure for capturing, storing, and querying test and telemetry data.
• Develop and maintain controller software for PCBA test stands, including automated test sequencing, instrument control, and results reporting.
• Support development of flight software variants that expand support for additional aerospace communication protocols.
• Write unit and integration tests and participate in code reviews with senior engineers.
• Identify and communicate opportunities for improvement in software, test processes, and workflow to increase efficiency and quality of internal and external deliverables.
• Document software designs, interfaces, and usage, and author test reports as needed.
• Take direction and effectively balance multiple projects/workloads simultaneously.
• Proactively and regularly communicate status of assignments.
• At all times, maintain Benchmark’s outstanding reputation for operating at the highest levels of honesty, integrity, accountability, and transparency.

Education and/or Experience

• Candidates must be enrolled in an accredited college or university and seeking a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical 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:

• Strong programming fundamentals in Python and/or C/C++, including data structures, algorithms, and software design.
• Experience with version control (Git) and collaborative software development practices.
• Familiarity with embedded systems and microcontroller programming; experience with real-time or resource-constrained software is a plus.
• Knowledge or experience of communication protocols and interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C, CAN, RS-422/485, etc.).
• Experience with databases (SQL or time-series) and data processing or visualization tools is preferred.
• Experience with test automation, hardware-in-the-loop testing, or lab instrument control (e.g., SCPI/VISA) is a plus.
• Familiarity with Linux environments and scripting is a plus.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multi-disciplinary team on system requirements and design development.

What makes you stand out

• Previous internship or research experience related to electrical, electromechanical or computer technologies.
• Aerospace, rocketry, or other engineering club experience.
• Experience working on a project that produced flight hardware.

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 predominately functioning in a sedentary light office position with high frequency of telephone 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