Internship - Technical Intern 2 (NASA) - FALL 2026

Overview

AMERICAN SYSTEMS, an employee-owned federal contractor, is seeking two Technical Interns 2 for a fall 2026 internship supporting NASA’s innovative aerospace research and flight missions at the Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) at Edwards Air Force Base, California.

Candidates must be currently working toward a Bachelors or Masters Engineering degree and be able to work on-site 20-30 hours per week at Edwards AFB, CA. 

Launch your career at AMERICAN SYSTEMS with this is an exciting opportunity for college students to gain hands-on experience, work alongside experienced engineers and technical professionals, and contribute to real-world projects that advance the future of aviation and aerospace innovation.

Responsibilities

As a Technical Intern 2 with AMERICAN SYSTEMS supporting NASA at the Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC), you will perform buildup, maintenance, operation, monitoring, documentation, and storage of mechanical and thermal test systems and structures, including, but not limited to:

• Assemble structures and associated hardware for mechanical and thermal test systems.
• Support the setup, integration, and configuration of hydraulic systems, including hydraulic carts, hydraulic pumps, hydraulic manifolds, hydraulic servo valves, load frame machines, hydraulic hoses, actuators, load cells, and other associated hardware and equipment.
• Support the setup, integration, and configuration of radiant heating systems, including quartz lamp systems, and provide assistance with power wiring design, radiant heater configurations, and electrical wiring connections.
• Safely operate overhead cranes to move heavy test fixtures, test articles, and equipment within the laboratory in accordance with established safety procedures, lift plans, and rigging requirements.
• Safely operate forklifts to transport materials, test hardware, pallets, and equipment in support of test setup, teardown, and laboratory operations.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Must have a high school diploma and be currently enrolled in college or have 3–4 years of college coursework completed, or equivalent related work experience.
• Must be a student currently working toward a Bachelors or Masters Engineering degree
• Must have a basic understanding of engineering principles and systems engineering processes.
• Must be able to apply standard methods and approaches while demonstrating initiative, problem-solving skills, and sound judgment.
• Ability to work on-site 20-30 hours per week between core hours of 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
• Ability to work a 9/80 WORK SCHEDULE (alternating Fridays off)
• Internship runs from September 2026 through February 2027.

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience supporting real NASA mission and research activities.
• Exposure to multidisciplinary engineering and flight test operations.
• Opportunities to learn from experienced engineers, technicians, and technical professionals.
• Practical experience applying classroom knowledge to real-world aerospace challenges.
• A meaningful internship in a dynamic and innovative environment.

Pay Transparency Statement

AMERICAN SYSTEMS is committed to pay transparency for our applicants and employee-owners. The salary range for this position is USD $20.00/Hr. - USD $25/Hr. Actual compensation will be determined based on several factors permitted by law. AMERICAN SYSTEMS provides for the welfare of its employees and their dependents through a comprehensive benefits program by offering healthcare benefits, paid leave, retirement plans, insurance programs, and education and training assistance.

EEO Statement

EEO Race/Sex/Disability Status/Veteran Status