Test Engineering Intern

Job Purpose and Primary Objectives:

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

In this role, you will work closely with engineers and chemists to 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.

This role is on-site in our Burlington, VT location.

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:

• Creating, modifying, and reviewing test plans and procedures.
• Creating, modifying, and reviewing test fixture and test stand designs.
• Creating and managing assembly and testing schedule.
• Identify and communicate opportunities for improvement in test process and workflow to increase efficiency and quality of internal and external deliverables.
• Documenting test results, procedural redlines, and authoring test reports.
• Generating Nonconformance reports to document nonconformances.
• Take direction and effectively balance multiple projects/workload 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 aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a similar degree.
• 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 organization, record-keeping, and written/verbal communication skills.
• Attention to detail.

• Ability, agility, and can-do attitude to work in an entrepreneurial, fast-paced, and matrixed cross-functional environment.
• Able to collaborate in a multi-team environment to plan and accomplish tasks and meet objectives.
• 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 flight hardware.
• Laboratory test equipment, such as: thermal vacuum chambers, vibration testing systems, etc.
• Laboratory safety best practices.
• Common aerospace testing standards (SMC-S-016, GSFC-STD-7000B).
• Inventory management and material handling experience.
• Experience writing and editing python code for data acquisition
• Ability to read and understand mechanical and electrical drawings, diagrams, schematics, and manuals.

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. Work with hazardous chemicals in a laboratory or lifting up to 20lbs may be required.