Internship Systems Engineering Space Propulsion (F/M/X)

Ludwigsburg, Lampoldshausen

Full-time

Intern / Student

Your Main Responsibilities

At ISPTech, we’re shaping the future of space propulsion. As a propulsion systems engineering intern, you’ll gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge projects that push the boundaries of technology for CubeSats and SmallSats. You will take ownership of full subsystems from initial fluid schematic design to detailed CAD modelling and structural evaluation. You’ll work alongside experienced engineers, contribute to real missions, and learn what it takes to deliver reliable propulsion systems for space applications.

Your Key Responsibilities

Create a Phase 0/A design study of a propulsion system: Use Space Systems Engineering principles to create a complete propulsion system considering cross-subsystem topics.
Fluid System Architecture & P&IDs: Derive and conduct fluidic system architecture tradeoffs, create and maintain Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).
Mechanical Design & CAD: Conduct mechanical design tradeoffs, model system components and assemblies, and make technical drawings.
Component Selection & Specification: Trade, size, and specify critical fluid system and mechanical hardware, including tanks, control valves, and temperature sensors.
Structural Design & Analysis: Conduct preliminary structural hand calculations to verify hardware integrity under launch loads, vibration, and thermal environments.
Electrical & Instrumentation Interfacing: Work with the Avionics team to define and design electrical interfaces for propulsion components, specifying wire harnesses, connector types, and pinouts for power, telemetry, and command and control.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Coordinate with manufacturing, test, and system safety teams to ensure designs meet assembly, testing, and operational constraints.

Your Qualification

Studying aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, systems engineering or a related field
Good understanding of the thermodynamic and fluidic behaviour of propellants
Proficiency in mechanical design and CAD software (e.g. Fusion, NX, CATIA, or similar) and a foundational understanding of engineering drawings
Familiarity with fluid system schematics (P&IDs) and common fluidic/pneumatic hardware components
Familiarity with working across multiple space subsystems
Proactive, self-directed working style, able to manage complex tasks independently and in a structured way
Strong verbal and written communication skills for technical documentation and design reviews
Fluent in English; German is a plus
Ideally: Experience working in a student (rocketry or satellite) team

Our Benefits

An exciting work environment encompassing the whole process from the development, building, and launch of space propulsion systems
Flexible working time
Combination of working in the office, at home, and on the go
Professional skills development through a broad base of responsibilities and freedom
Engage directly and actively participate in the end-to-end development processes of an expanding NewSpace start-up

Über uns

InSpacePropulsion Technologies (ISPTech) gestaltet eine neue Ära der Mobilität im All und liefert Antriebslösungen für jedes Raumfahrzeug und jede Mission. Als Spin-off des Deutschen Zentrums für Luft‑ und Raumfahrt (DLR) bietet das Unternehmen kosteneffiziente, robuste und schnell verfügbare In‑Orbit‑Antriebstechnologien, die auf mehr als zehn Jahren Forschungs‑ und Entwicklungsarbeit basieren. Die beiden Technologien von ISPTech – HyNOx und HIP_11 – bedienen das gesamte Spektrum von kleinen CubeSats bis hin zu großen Landern und Kapseln. Die Antriebssysteme sind darauf ausgelegt, den wachsenden Bedarf an zuverlässigen und wirtschaftlichen Lösungen im dynamisch wachsenden Raumfahrtmarkt zu erfüllen.