Test Engineering Development Program (3 months - Path to Hire)

Space Kinetic is a dual-use space technology startup building a new architecture for space operations that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology—low-cost, operationally flexible, attainable, and distributed—to space missions while reducing reliance on consumable fuel. We aim to move away from one-to-one space architectures and unlock a ‘one-to-many’ system where each satellite deploys multiple payloads at high velocities without thruster firing.

About the role

This is a full-time, onsite Development Program requiring a 40-hour-per-week commitment for three months at our headquarters in El Segundo, California. The program is a pathway to a career at Space Kinetic, offering recent graduates the opportunity to solve cutting-edge technical problems and contribute to high-consequence dual-use space missions. Interns join core technical, operations, and business teams, work on mission-critical projects, and are evaluated for long-term career opportunities based on performance, initiative, collaboration, and ownership. Outstanding interns may receive a full-time employment offer before or upon completion. Qualified participants relocating for the program may be eligible for a housing stipend, and applications are accepted year-round based on hiring needs.

Responsibilities

• Assist in engineering activities that support design or process improvement for the Division.
• Drive continuous improvement of the facility while working with all levels of the organization.
• Receive training and mentorship to develop real-world skills and experiences.
• Assist with the design, execution, and maintenance of both manual and automated tests to ensure high-quality software delivery.
• Contribute to test planning, develop detailed test cases, and identify, report, and track defects.
• Work closely with developers and product teams to troubleshoot issues, enhance testing methodologies, and improve test coverage across applications.
• Maximize testing efficiency through automation.
• Gain a deeper understanding of test engineering processes and refine technical expertise.

Requirements

• Graduate of a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering from an accredited college or university.
• Passion for design, manufacturing, and testing of space systems and/or mechanisms.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and mechanical skills.
• Confidence with complex machine setups.
• Physically able to handle heavy items, including lifting, pushing, pulling, and positioning components.
• Able to stand for long periods of time.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical procedures, governmental regulations, and business periodicals.
• Ability to interpret technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with abstract and concrete variables.
• Ability to work with minimal direction or support, learn quickly, and demonstrate strong analytical skills.
• Creative and innovative thinking; detail-oriented; calm under pressure; commitment to follow-through.
• Enthusiastic with a talent for motivating others; receptive to criticism and open to others' ideas.
• Effective in written communication.
• Ability to maintain or obtain Government Security Clearance.
• Must be a U.S. citizen, national, lawful permanent resident, Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158 to conform to U.S. Government export regulations (ITAR).

Preferred Qualifications

• Curiosity for testing in-space operations.
• SolidWorks or equivalent 3D modeling experience.
• Passion for the commercial and government space industry.
• Passion for spacecraft or launch vehicle system development.

Location

The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA.

Pay

This role offers an hourly base salary of $27.00. Pay is determined by role, level, location, and market alignment. Individual pay may vary based on interviews and an assessment of job-related skills, education, experience, certifications, abilities, and internal equity.