Job Purpose and Primary Objectives:Benchmark Space Systems is looking for a Test Engineering Intern to join our team for the summer of 2025. 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 at our Burlington, VT 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:
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 required.
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. 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
