Job Purpose and Primary Objectives:Benchmark Space Systems is looking for a Propellant Chemistry Intern to join our team for the summer of 2025. In this role, you will work closely with engineers and chemists 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. This internship is onsite at our Pleasanton, CA location. About Benchmark:Benchmark designs and produces propulsion systems that maneuver small satellites between low earth orbit and the moon. These systems utilize non-toxic propellants to provide thrust to transfer to a specific orbit, maintain position, avoid collisions, and a range of other applications. These capabilities enable activities such as on-orbit refueling, in-space manufacturing, re-entry, and more. True to its Vermont roots and values, Benchmark's mission is to keep space accessible and sustainable for generations to come, and to enrich Vermont's growing tech sector. Benchmark has built a world-class team of engineers and business development professionals with offices on the shores of Lake Champlain, in Silicon Valley, and the United Kingdom.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:
Plan, develop and execute chemical and mechanical tests.
Maintain, clean and repair laboratory instruments and equipment.
Set up chemical experiments, tests and analysis using standard analytical chemistry equipment.
Prepare chemical solutions.
Provide and maintain a safe work environment.
Provide technical support to chemists, engineers, and technicians.
Order and inventory materials to maintain supplies.
Compile and interpret results of tests and analyses.
Develop or conduct programs of sampling and analysis to maintain quality standards of incoming chemicals and standard solutions.
Write technical reports and charts to document experimental results.
Design or fabricate experimental apparatus to develop new products or processes.
Develop new chemical engineering processes or production techniques.
Sourcing new materials and tools.
Education and/or Experience:
Candidates must be enrolled in an accredited college or university and seeking a degree in chemistry or chemical engineering. Other relevant degrees are also acceptable.
Previous internship or research experience in the chemical, medical or space industry is a plus, but not required.
U.S. Person required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:What you bring to the position, or have the ability to swiftly learn and be successful in:
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 chemical and physical tests.
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 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 chemistry or chemical propulsion.
A passion for chemistry and space.
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:On feet in lab much of the time, working with hazardous chemicals.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
