Engineering Intern (Summer 2026) - Space & Propulsion Systems

Kratos Defense & Rocket Support Services/SRE (KSRE) is a market leader in testing, characterization, and understanding of advanced materials in extreme environments. From advanced carbon-carbon composites to complex refractory metals, KSRE brings world-class expertise and test facilities to the problems facing government and commercial customers in the aerospace, defense, and industrial sectors.

The Engineering Intern will gain hands-on experience working alongside a mentor at the Kratos Defense & Rocket Support Services/KSRE facility located at the Birmingham, AL location. The intern will support ongoing projects, as well as participate in the development and implementation of new processes and technologies, and assist with materials evaluation projects, assisting engineers in facility & test development, and internal research.iDue to the nature of our research KSRE can only consider U.S. Citizens for this opportunity.

Key Activities and responsibilities

• Interfacing with engineers on new designs and research activities.
• Participate in process improvement initiatives to increase efficiency and quality.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance, and safety teams to resolve technical issues and improve plant operations.
• Conduct research and analysis to evaluate new technologies and process improvements.
• Prepare reports and presentations on projects and process improvements.
• Assist engineering teams with project related needs.
• Understand, support, and comply with all facility safety policies and procedures.
• Other duties in support of KSRE operations and processes as well as taking advantage of opportunities to enhance learning in field of engineering and professional development.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in an engineering bacheloris degree program in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering or a related field
• Successfully completed at least 2 years of degree program
• Strong aptitude in logic and math in addition to having an ability to troubleshoot and problem solve
• Microsoft Office, SolidWorks, design fixtures, assembly of various components, time management, spreadsheets, working with various tools
• Strong preference for 3.5 GPA or above
• U.S. Citizen

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Self-motivated to continually expand knowledge and skills related to this role

Work Environment & Conditions:

• This assignment will require:
  
  
  
  • Working in both an office and a laboratory setting
  • Ability to wear PPE when entering the laboratory
  • Use of a computer for extended periods of time may be necessary
  
  
  
  

Demonstrated Competencies:

• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proactive communication and interpersonal skills
• Time management skills
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment