Propulsion Component Engineering Intern - Spring 2027

Hermeus is a venture-backed defense aviation company reclaiming the lost art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By prioritizing relentless hardware iteration, we deliver high-speed systems at the pace of the modern battlefield. We work with the Department of War to provide the high-speed capabilities our nation and its allies need to maintain a durable, asymmetric advantage. 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 deliveryContribute to designs for extreme environments, including high pressure, temperature, and transient operating conditionsSupport engineering trade studies across performance, manufacturability, reliability, and testabilityAssist with clean-sheet design, analysis, and integration of propulsion componentsSupport hardware through rapid build–test–iterate cyclesParticipate in troubleshooting and root cause analysis during development and testWork with propulsion and vehicle system owners to define requirements, interfaces, and integration strategiesAssist with system-level sizing, architecture, and design tradesSupport development testing, qualification, and acceptance of flight hardwareContribute to the transition from prototype to repeatable, production-ready designsAssist in defining operational limits and evaluating reliability and safety across all phases of useApply engineering judgment and first principles to support risk-informed design decisionsPrioritize work effectively in a fast-paced, evolving development environmen Requirements: Practical experience designing, building, and testing hardware or vehicles through internships, coursework, research, or hands-on projectsMust 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 developmentStrong understanding of engineering first principles, including fluids, thermodynamics, mechanics, and materialsDemonstrated ability to work within cross-functional teamsEnthusiasm for aviation and Hermeus's missionExcellent written and verbal communication skillsGPA 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 projectsExperience designing or building components such as valves, actuators, or fluid control hardwareFamiliarity with high-temperature materials, sealing strategies, and common mechanical failure modesFamiliarity with GD&T, tolerance stack-up, and precision assembliesHands-on experience supporting hardware testing, assembly, integration, or troubleshootingExperience 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 internshipsScripting experience (Python, MATLAB, or similar) for analysis or automation Additional Requirements: Willingness to work hands-on in build, integration, and test environmentsAbility to support extended hours during critical test campaignsWillingness to travel to support hardware builds and flight testsMust be eligible to access export-controlled information 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 offOffice Perks: Weekly paid office lunches and fully stocked breakrooms U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a “U.S. person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.62 or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. US persons include U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending EQUAL OPPORTUNITY Hermeus is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions at Hermeus are based solely on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status. We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.