Job Purpose and Primary Objectives:
Benchmark Space Systems is looking for a Mechanical Analysis Engineering Intern to join our team for the summer of 2027.
In this role, you will work closely with engineers to design, build, and test the next-generation of in-space propulsion products for small satellites. Interns will gain valuable knowledge in industry best practices, use of engineering software, and documenting and presenting engineering results.
This Internship is on-site at 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:
- Under the supervision of senior engineers, perform mechanical analyses in support of active commercial contracts and internal research and development projects.
- Create component and system level mechanical and thermal analysis models as needed.
- Collaborate with Mechanical and Test Engineers to create and validate models.
- Work with an interdisciplinary engineering team to solve day-to-day challenges on commercial contracts.
- Contribute to all aspects of the design process including requirements development, design reviews, component sourcing, test plan development, and design revision.
Education and/or Experience:
- Candidates must be enrolled in an accredited college or university and seeking a degree in mechanical/aerospace 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:
- Proficiency with analysis software (Ansys Mechanical and Thermal Desktop preferred).
- Some exposure to generating engineering drawings and models for production.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multi-disciplinary team on system requirements and design development.
- Ability, agility, and can-do attitude to work in an entrepreneurial, fast-paced, and matrixed 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 chemical propulsion or small satellite 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
Skills Required
- Must be enrolled in an accredited college or university pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a closely related field.
- Must qualify as a U.S. Person under U.S. export control laws.
- Visa sponsorship is not available.
- Proficiency with analysis software, preferably Ansys Mechanical and Thermal Desktop.
- Ability to work collaboratively on multidisciplinary engineering teams.
- Ability to communicate technical problems and concepts through written, visual, and oral presentations.
- Exposure to generating engineering drawings and production models.
- Previous internship or research experience in the space industry.
- Experience related to chemical propulsion or small satellite technologies.
- Aerospace, rocketry, or engineering club experience.
- Experience on a project that produced flight hardware.
What We Do
Benchmark Space Systems is focused on providing the most cost-effective propulsion solution for your Small Satellite mission needs, from simple orbit adjustments to high-agility maneuvers. Our patented and proprietary innovations have been specifically designed to improve safety and capability for spacecraft ranging from 3U through ESPA class.
