Propulsion Component Engineering Intern - Spring 2027

About The Role

As a Propulsion Component Engineering Intern, you will support the development of flight-critical mechanical and fluid system components, including valves, actuators, and integrated propulsion hardware. You will contribute to hardware development from clean-sheet design through build, test, qualification, and production, working closely with propulsion and vehicle teams. Your work will directly support systems operating in high-pressure, high-temperature, and dynamic flight environments. Spring: Around 16 weeks (January - April)

Responsibilities

• Support the development of propulsion components (e.g., valves, actuation systems, and fluid control hardware) from concept through flight-ready delivery
• Contribute to designs for extreme environments, including high pressure, temperature, and transient operating conditions
• Support engineering trade studies across performance, manufacturability, reliability, and testability
• Assist with clean-sheet design, analysis, and integration of propulsion components
• Support hardware through rapid build–test–iterate cycles
• Participate in troubleshooting and root cause analysis during development and test
• Work with propulsion and vehicle system owners to define requirements, interfaces, and integration strategies
• Assist with system-level sizing, architecture, and design trades
• Support development testing, qualification, and acceptance of flight hardware
• Contribute to the transition from prototype to repeatable, production-ready designs
• Assist in defining operational limits and evaluating reliability and safety across all phases of use
• Apply engineering judgment and first principles to support risk-informed design decisions
• Prioritize work effectively in a fast-paced, evolving development environment

Requirements

• Practical experience designing, building, and testing hardware or vehicles through internships, coursework, research, or hands-on projects
• Must be currently enrolled in a STEM program at an accredited college or university (undergraduate student in your third or fourth year of study, or enrolled in a Master's or Ph.D. program)
• Strong interest in propulsion systems, mechanical systems, and hardware development
• Strong understanding of engineering first principles, including fluids, thermodynamics, mechanics, and materials
• Demonstrated ability to work within cross-functional teams
• Enthusiasm for aviation and Hermeus's mission
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• GPA of 3.0 or above

Preferred Skills And Qualifications

• Experience with propulsion systems, high-pressure fluid systems, or aerospace mechanisms through internships, coursework, research, or projects
• Experience designing or building components such as valves, actuators, or fluid control hardware
• Familiarity with high-temperature materials, sealing strategies, and common mechanical failure modes
• Familiarity with GD&T, tolerance stack-up, and precision assemblies
• Hands-on experience supporting hardware testing, assembly, integration, or troubleshooting
• Experience with CAD tools (NX preferred) and analysis tools (ANSYS or similar)
• Experience participating in rapid hardware development environments, including engineering competition teams, research programs, or internships
• Scripting experience (Python, MATLAB, or similar) for analysis or automation

Additional Requirements

• Willingness to work hands-on in build, integration, and test environments
• Ability to support extended hours during critical test campaigns
• Willingness to travel to support hardware builds and flight tests
• Must be eligible to access export-controlled information

Pay

$25 - $33 an hour. The hourly rate listed for this internship is intended as a general guideline. Final compensation will be determined based on degree level.

Benefits

• Time Off: Interns are eligible for 5 days of sick leave and unpaid time off.
• Office Perks: Weekly paid office lunches and fully stocked breakrooms.