Summer Internship - Structures Engineering

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Structures Engineering Intern to help take real spacecraft hardware from concept to flight readiness. This is not a documentation or shadowing role — interns at Lux Aeterna design parts, build hardware, run tests, and help solve real flight problems.

You will work directly with our team to produce reusable spacecraft hardware that survives launch, orbit, return, and refurbishment. The role spans structures, mechanisms, fixtures, tooling, and whatever else is required to make the vehicle succeed in the real world.

This is a unique opportunity to:

• Work on hardware that is intended to fly, not just prototypes

• Participate in spacecraft build, integration, and test activities

• Design and fabricate real flight and ground hardware

• Debug issues discovered during assembly and testing

• Learn how spacecraft are actually developed in a rapid hardware environment

The Role

You will support ownership engineers in delivering hardware that flies. Interns are expected to engage directly with the hardware and help close real problems, not just generate reports.

Responsibilities include:

• Designing and detailing components for spacecraft structures, mechanisms, and support hardware

• Supporting manufacturing, assembly, and integration of flight hardware

• Building tooling, fixtures, and ground support equipment

• Participating in qualification and acceptance testing

• Collecting test data and helping determine root cause of issues

• Performing focused analyses to support engineering decisions

• Updating CAD and drawings based on build and test feedback

• Working closely with technicians and engineers during hands-on build activities

Required Qualifications

• Junior-level undergraduate student or higher pursuing Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering degree

• Hands-on engineering experience through projects, labs, internships, or personal builds

• Demonstrated ability to work with tools, hardware, or fabrication processes

• Basic understanding of statics and mechanics of materials

• Experience with 3D CAD (any major package)

• Ability to work in a fast-paced team environment and take ownership of tasks

Preferred Experience

• Leadership or significant contribution in engineering extracurriculars (rocketry team, Formula SAE, robotics, CubeSat, Baja, etc.)

• Experience machining, assembling, or testing mechanical systems

• Basic FEA exposure

• Composite fabrication, mechanisms, or moving hardware

• Comfort working in shop and lab environments

• Evidence of building things outside the classroom

Referrals from faculty, professors, or previous managers welcome & will strengthen your application.

We are based in Denver, CO and believe in the power of in-person collaboration. We are onsite 5 days/week by default, but flexible when life requires it.

Certain roles may involve access to export-controlled technical data. To comply with U.S. export-control laws, access may be limited to individuals who qualify as a “U.S. person” under 22 C.F.R. §120.62 or who otherwise may lawfully receive such access.