Supports development of flight-critical propulsion components such as valves, actuators, and fluid-control hardware from clean-sheet design through production. Responsibilities include engineering trade studies, analysis, integration, build-test-iterate cycles, troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, qualification, reliability and safety evaluation, and transition to production-ready designs. The intern collaborates with propulsion and vehicle teams in hands-on, fast-paced build and test environments.
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 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 environmen
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
The hourly rate listed for this internship is intended as a general guideline. Final compensation will be determined based on degree level.
- 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.
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.
Hermeus Los Angeles, California, USA Office
Los Angeles, CA, United States
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