Space Operations Engineering Intern – Summer 2027

We're looking for a stellar Space Operations Engineering Intern to join our team for a 3-month internship. You'll join the Space Ops Engineering team to be hands-on with real spacecraft – executing integrated test campaigns, mastering the satellite bus, and working with world-class RE teams to validate system health and fly on-orbit satellites.

Responsibilities

Support test procedures (manual and automated) used to confirm spacecraft hardware and software flight worthiness

Take part in high-visibility integration campaigns for development and flight hardware

Operate spacecraft (interpret telemetry, send commands) during system tests at the factory, test facilities, launch sites, and during pre-launch operations and space operations

Identify and elevate off-nominal conditions during test, and drive issues to resolution by engaging with the wider engineering team

Clearly communicate status, needs, and risks to the entire K2 Space team (and payload providers) during high-intensity operations

Assess risks associated with different integration, test, and flight approaches, and clearly communicate mitigations and trade-offs

Qualifications

Must be currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in mechanical, electrical, aerospace, or other relevant engineering discipline

6+ months experience of technical engineering skills outside of the university setting classroom (eg: laboratory, research, extracurricular project teams, volunteering, personal projects or prior internship/work experience)

Additional Requirements

Available for a minimum 12-week internship in person at our HQ in Torrance

Nice to Have

Ability to work well in an integrated collaborative team environment, including frequent interactions with technicians, engineers, and managers

Experience testing and troubleshooting spacecraft and their related components and systems, including subsystem checkouts and system acceptance testing

Familiarity with mission operations concepts such as LEOP, telemetry, commanding, fault protection, and anomaly resolution

Experience working in a clean room and with ESD-sensitive equipment

Experience operating vehicles in a mission or production setting

Hands-on experience with HITL or Flatsat software verification testbeds

Experience or exposure in a test or automation role

Experience in Python and/or Rust

Experience with Linux systems

Compensation

Hourly pay range for this non-exempt role is $30 - $40 per hour

Hourly rate will be based on several factors including, but not limited to: knowledge and skills, education, and experience level

Housing and travel stipend may also be available