Engineering / Characterization Lab Intern - Materials Science

About the Role

E-Space is actively seeking a driven Engineering Intern with a keen interest in mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineering to join our dynamic team. This position is fundamentally hands-on and operates at a rapid pace, providing direct exposure to advanced materials characterization and testing methodologies. The selected intern will work directly alongside Materials Characterization Lab engineers and staff, supporting projects that are central to innovation in advanced manufacturing and aerospace systems. You will play a key role in ensuring the reliability and performance of components destined for demanding LEO environments. You will be responsible for assisting in the precise measurement and analysis of electro-optical and semiconductor components, ensuring that every measurement contributes to the integrity of the final system. This role requires a proactive mindset as you will write, maintain, and update test plans, work instructions, and comprehensive technical documentation for evolving project needs. You will actively assist in executing functional and performance tests, focusing on accurate data collection and thorough analysis to support critical design decisions. Collaboration with engineers from various disciplines is essential to troubleshoot issues, solve complex problems, and implement effective improvements that enhance lab capabilities. The position also involves fostering a lab culture that prioritizes safety, quality, and continuous innovation in every task undertaken.

Key Facts

What you'll do

• Execute instrument calibration routines to maintain measurement accuracy for semiconductor evaluation tasks.
• Design and develop test procedures that enable the analysis of electro-optical hardware under a variety of operational conditions.
• Perform detailed inspections on material samples to verify conformance using established, documented work methods.
• Create comprehensive technical records that capture data trends for review by cross-functional engineering groups.
• Handle all components with care to protect sample integrity while meticulously logging environmental conditions.
• Investigate anomalies by correlating electrical behavior with physical observations within controlled lab settings.
• Prepare specimens for characterization so that engineers can safely assess performance limits and validate design assumptions.
• Utilize Python for data analysis and automation tasks to streamline repetitive processes and improve efficiency.
• Work with C/C++ for certain hardware control and analysis applications that interface directly with test equipment.
• Employ MATLAB for technical computing, data analysis, and visualization to interpret complex experimental results.
• Share insights with partners to align test results with evolving requirements for space systems and mission objectives.
• Conduct failure analysis to identify root causes of issues and recommend actionable corrective actions.
• Support the development of new testing protocols that align with industry standards and best practices.
• Document all procedures and outcomes to ensure traceability and compliance with quality management systems.
• Assist in the preparation of technical reports that summarize findings and recommendations for project stakeholders.

Requirements

You must currently be pursuing a Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific discipline, such as Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemistry, or Physics. Previous exposure to programming platforms, including Python, C/C++, or MATLAB, is highly preferred. Strong problem-solving abilities and hands-on experience are required, along with comfort in a laboratory setting. You must possess the ability to write clear and concise technical documentation, including test plans, work instructions, and detailed reports. A keen attention to detail and the capability to communicate findings effectively with team members are mandatory. You must be able to commit to a part-time schedule that aligns with project needs and laboratory operations. Reliability and consistent performance are essential for success in this role.

Nice to have

Candidates with direct experience in optical measurement techniques or semiconductor testing will be able to contribute more immediately and are encouraged to apply.

Practical notes

It is necessary to Core Tools and Technical Skills

You will utilize Python for data analysis and automation tasks.

You will work with C/C++ for certain hardware control and analysis applications.

You will employ MATLAB for technical computing, data analysis, and visualization.