SpaceX runs internship programs throughout the year, covering spring, summer, and fall semesters at several locations. You’ll find roles in engineering, business operations, and some specialized departments, all with a minimum 12-week commitment.
SpaceX lines up internships for a wide range of departments, so there’s something for almost any academic background or career interest. Engineering internships make up the biggest slice—software, mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineering, mostly.
Business operations internships focus on finance, supply chain, legal, and HR. These folks keep commercial spaceflight running and support manufacturing.
Computer science interns jump into mission-critical software, data analysis, and automation. They help build flight control software, automation for manufacturing, and rocket telemetry systems.
SpaceX also sets up specialized programs in materials engineering, propulsion, and satellite development. The fall 2025 engineering internship cycle includes openings in California, Florida, Texas, and Washington.
Every SpaceX internship runs for at least 12 weeks. You can apply for spring, summer, or fall, depending on your schedule.
Main locations include Hawthorne and McGregor (California and Texas), Kennedy Space Center (Florida), and the satellite development center in Seattle. Each site tackles different pieces of spacecraft and rocket development.
Interns jump right into active projects that matter to real missions. You’ll join an engineering team and help with spacecraft systems, manufacturing, or mission ops.
The program sticks to a full-time schedule. You’ll have a mentor and clear project milestones. There’s a lot of hands-on work with rocket engines, spacecraft, and even launch operations.
SpaceX interns get to work on projects that actually push space exploration forward. You’ll mess around with real aerospace tech and rocket manufacturing.
The internship gives you access to Falcon 9 rockets, Dragon capsules, and Starship systems. You might even witness launch operations or participate in mission control.
Professional development comes with mentorship from senior engineers and a taste of SpaceX’s rapid-fire development style. Many interns score full-time job offers after graduation.
They pay competitively, too. SpaceX usually asks for a GPA of 3.5 or higher, so the bar’s high.
SpaceX sets clear academic and citizenship requirements for internships. Most roles require that you’re actively enrolled at an accredited university and have a strong technical background.
You need to be enrolled at an accredited four-year college or university for most SpaceX internships. They accept undergrads and grad students from a bunch of engineering disciplines.
For software engineering and business operations internships, you can apply if you’re still in school or within six months of graduation.
Associate engineer interns have to finish their bachelor’s degree before starting. This separates entry-level tech roles from the more advanced gigs.
Accepted engineering disciplines include:
The fall 2025 engineering internship sticks to these standards. Strong technical classes and hands-on project experience help you stand out.
SpaceX can only take interns with certain citizenship status because of the tech they work on. All roles fall under International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
You must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or a protected individual under federal law. This rule covers every SpaceX internship.
International students on F-1 visas aren’t eligible. SpaceX can’t sponsor work visas for interns because of government rules on defense tech.
You’ll need to show proof of citizenship or permanent residency during the application. They check this before making any offers.
Good grades are just the start. SpaceX looks for students who show technical chops through their classes and projects.
If you’ve done hands-on work—like engineering projects, robotics, or aerospace clubs—that’s a big plus. Practical skills matter as much as theory.
Programming is a must for most tech roles. You should know Python, C++, or MATLAB, depending on your field.
Previous internships at tech companies or research labs help, but they’ll still consider students with strong academic and project backgrounds.
Leadership in student groups shows you can work well with others in SpaceX’s fast-paced setting. They want interns who fit into cross-functional teams.
To apply for a SpaceX internship, you’ll need to submit everything online. The process can take a few weeks, so get your resume, cover letter, and transcripts ready. Be prepared for several interviews.
SpaceX posts internship openings for Spring, Summer, and Fall on their careers website. Fall 2025 engineering internship applications usually open months ahead of the start date.
First, you’ll make an account on the SpaceX careers portal. Then, upload your resume, cover letter, and official university transcripts.
Internships pop up in California, Florida, Washington DC, and Seattle. You can pick your preferred location when you apply.
They add new internships throughout the year, and spots fill up fast. It pays to check the careers page often.
On your resume, focus on engineering classes, projects, and your technical skills. SpaceX loves to see hands-on work with rockets, satellites, or aerospace systems.
List your GPA if it’s strong. Mention programming languages and software tools you know. Clubs, competitions, and personal projects show your passion.
Your cover letter should explain why you want to work on SpaceX’s mission. Generic letters don’t make it far.
Talk about any experience building, testing, or manufacturing hardware. SpaceX wants folks who can do more than just design on a computer.
Keep your resume and cover letter short and focused on what you’ve achieved. Use numbers and results when you can.
SpaceX kicks off interviews with a phone screen. They’ll ask about your background, interests, and some basic technical stuff.
Next come technical interviews. You’ll get problem-solving questions in your field—physics, math, or design challenges for engineers.
Behavioral interviews test if you’ll thrive in SpaceX’s fast-moving culture. They might ask how you handle pressure or work in a team.
The final round usually means meeting with your potential team or manager. They’ll look at both your technical skills and how you’d fit in.
From start to finish, the process usually takes three to six weeks. SpaceX tends to move faster than most aerospace companies.
SpaceX offers internships in three main buckets: engineering (rocket and spacecraft development), software/IT (mission support), and business operations (company logistics). Each area covers several locations and gives you real experience with space tech.
Propulsion engineering internships put you on teams working with Raptor and Merlin engines—the power behind Falcon 9 and Starship.
You’ll help test engines, analyze performance, and suggest design tweaks. Interns often team up with senior engineers on combustion research and fuel systems.
Materials engineering interns develop composite materials and alloys for harsh space conditions. You might test heat shields, fuel tanks, or structural parts that need to survive crazy temperatures and pressures.
Projects could include carbon fiber for rocket fairings or titanium grid fins for booster landings.
Manufacturing engineering interns work on production line improvements and quality control. You’ll help streamline rocket assembly and try out new manufacturing techniques.
Interns spend time on the factory floor in Hawthorne, Boca Chica, or other sites. You’ll get hands-on with welding robots and precision machining.
Supply chain engineering interns handle vendor management and parts procurement for rockets. You’ll analyze suppliers and help cut costs without sacrificing quality.
Software interns build flight control systems, mission planning tools, and ground ops software. You’ll write code that affects navigation and crew safety.
Projects might include Dragon capsule automation or Starlink satellite protocols. Interns work with real-time data and embedded systems.
IT interns support the tech that makes launches and satellite ops possible. You’ll manage network security, databases, and computing across sites.
You might help track rockets in flight or coordinate with NASA mission control. Cybersecurity interns keep space tech and customer data safe.
Web development interns build apps for customers and internal teams. You could work on satellite internet interfaces or launch scheduling tools.
Business operations interns handle logistics, financial analysis, and compliance work. You’ll support contracts with NASA, commercial clients, and international agencies.
Some interns work on launch scheduling or customer management. Others analyze costs for rocket reusability and satellite deployment.
Marketing and communications interns help tell SpaceX’s story. You’ll create content about launches and tech breakthroughs.
You might work with media during big missions or manage social media. There’s also experience in technical writing and aerospace communications.
HR interns help recruit and train new hires. You’ll work on onboarding, retention, and employee development as SpaceX keeps growing.
SpaceX sets up internship tracks tied to their main spacecraft and satellite programs. Interns get involved with Dragon missions to the ISS, Falcon rocket development, and the fast-growing Starlink network.
The Dragon program throws interns into the thick of human spaceflight systems. You’ll work on life support, crew interfaces, and safety protocols for astronauts heading to the ISS.
Dragon interns help with actual mission operations. You might support launch prep, monitor systems during flight, or join splashdown recovery off Florida.
Engineering focus areas:
You’ll see how NASA’s Commercial Crew Program works. Interns learn how SpaceX meets tough safety standards for human-rated spacecraft through testing and validation.
Aerospace engineering students interested in life support systems flock here. Mechanical and electrical engineering majors also find roles in propulsion and avionics for Dragon.
Falcon program interns dive into the rockets that make SpaceX tick. Falcon 9 handles most satellite launches and Dragon missions, while Falcon Heavy takes on the heaviest payloads.
Interns help build rockets in California and Texas. You’ll see advanced manufacturing for reusable systems that land back on Earth.
Key internship areas:
You’ll witness the full rocket development cycle. Interns might join static fire tests, launch ops, or analyze landings for reusability.
Propulsion and structural engineering students find this program a good fit. Manufacturing and industrial engineering majors focus on production and quality control.
Starlink interns get hands-on with the satellite internet constellation aiming for global broadband coverage. The program covers satellite design, manufacturing, and ground system operations at several SpaceX sites.
Students jump into satellite production lines, helping build dozens of satellites each month. They pick up high-volume aerospace manufacturing techniques—honestly, it’s a whole different world from old-school spacecraft development.
Internship opportunities include:
Interns help manage the constellation as thousands of satellites keep their orbits. They develop collision avoidance systems and coordinate with other operators to keep space debris in check.
The program welcomes students in electrical engineering and computer science. Telecommunications and software engineering majors especially find the networking and ground systems work valuable.
SpaceX interns dive into advanced propulsion systems, materials engineering, and manufacturing processes for reusable launch vehicles and spacecraft. Engineering teams focus on creating fully reusable transportation systems for Earth orbit and, maybe one day, interplanetary flights.
SpaceX really changed the game with reusable rockets like Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy. Interns on these projects get a crash course in propulsion engineering, rocket engine design, and fuel systems.
The Super Heavy rocket, loaded with 33 Raptor engines, is their next leap in reusable tech. It lands back on Earth and flies again. Engineering interns help out with landing system development and engine tweaks.
Manufacturing engineers play a huge role in getting these vehicles built at scale. Interns get their hands dirty with welding, composite materials, and precision machining. They focus on boosting production line efficiency and keeping quality up.
Materials engineering interns look at making components light but tough. They study how alloys and composites hold up under the crazy temperatures and pressures of launch and reentry.
Starship is SpaceX’s big vision for interplanetary travel. Interns join teams working on cabin design, life support systems, and thermal protection tech. All this gear needs to work reliably on long flights to Mars and beyond.
Building spacecraft demands serious precision. Interns learn about clean rooms and specialized assembly. They use advanced welding and computer-controlled machines.
Quality assurance is a must for every spacecraft part. Interns help run tests to make sure components meet safety standards. They practice inspection and documentation skills.
Materials choices make or break spacecraft safety. Interns explore how materials behave in space and during reentry. They contribute to heat shield development and structural components.
Spacecraft are complicated—thousands of parts have to work together. Interns figure out how electrical systems, computers, and mechanical bits all connect. They help with cable routing, software interfaces, and sensor placement.
Testing these systems means running lots of simulations. Interns use computer models to predict how everything will work in flight. They run integration tests to check communication between systems.
Fully reusable transportation systems need tight coordination. Interns work on ground support gear for rockets and spacecraft. They learn about fueling, launch towers, and recovery ops.
Flight software ties all the systems together. Interns help program controls for engine firing, navigation, and life support during missions.
SpaceX runs internships at seven major facilities across the U.S., with spots at key centers in California, Texas, Florida, and Washington. Most roles require interns to move to a specific site for the full 12 weeks.
SpaceX’s main internship locations cover a bunch of states, each handling different parts of the business.
Hawthorne, California is the headquarters and hosts most internship roles. Here, teams focus on spacecraft design, manufacturing, and company operations.
McGregor, Texas handles rocket development and engine testing. Interns at McGregor get deep into engine testing and rocket component work.
Kennedy Space Center, Florida is all about launch operations for crew and cargo. Interns here see actual spacecraft launches and mission ops up close.
Seattle, Washington is the hub for Starlink satellite development. Interns here work on satellite tech and communications.
Washington, DC covers government affairs and policy. Interns focus on regulatory stuff and government partnerships.
Other facilities in different states support specific testing and operational needs.
SpaceX expects interns to work full-time on-site for the full 12 weeks. There’s no remote or hybrid option.
Interns have to sort out their own housing and transport. SpaceX doesn’t provide housing help or relocation money for interns.
The company suggests locking down housing early, especially in pricier places like Hawthorne and Seattle. Many interns share apartments or look for short-term housing near their site.
Living costs change a lot depending on the location, so interns should plan their budgets carefully—Texas and California can be worlds apart.
SpaceX pays interns competitively, often matching or beating entry-level full-time gigs at other companies. The benefits package includes medical coverage and retirement planning.
SpaceX pays interns by the hour, and it adds up. Data shows interns average about $55,142 per year.
Hourly rates depend on the internship type and location. Business operations interns usually see $43,680 to $54,080 a year, which is around $21 to $26 an hour for full-time summer work.
Engineering and technical interns tend to earn more within that range. SpaceX wants to attract top talent from universities all over.
These wages put SpaceX intern salaries just $2,000 below the average American worker’s income. The pay helps with steep living costs in places like California and Texas.
SpaceX gives interns solid health benefits. The medical plan covers basic healthcare and preventive services.
Interns also get access to wellness programs that support physical and mental health. Aerospace work can be stressful, and these resources help with that.
Health coverage usually kicks in soon after the internship starts, so there’s no gap. Dental and vision options are available, too, rounding out the benefits.
SpaceX lets eligible interns join a 401(k) retirement plan—that’s rare for internships. Interns can start building financial security early.
The plan allows interns to contribute pre-tax dollars toward retirement. Company matching details vary, but access to institutional investment options is a big plus.
Interns need to meet certain requirements, like hours worked, to qualify. Once eligible, they can contribute and pick from different investment funds.
It’s pretty forward-thinking—SpaceX treats interns as real team members, not just temporary help. Early retirement savings can really add up over time.
SpaceX interns get to meet company leaders at presentations and networking events. The program includes professional development training and mentorship that really helps build career foundations.
SpaceX matches interns with experienced engineers and industry pros for direct career guidance. These mentors work on the front lines of aerospace tech and exploration.
Mentors help interns tackle tricky technical projects and share advice on career paths in space. The guidance goes beyond just tech skills—it’s about long-term planning, too.
Employees talk about different engineering areas at SpaceX. Interns hear about propulsion, avionics, manufacturing, and mission ops. It’s a good way to figure out what fits best.
Some mentorships last well past the internship. Many interns keep in touch with their SpaceX mentors for years.
All interns get structured professional development training. Sessions cover technical skills and work habits key for aerospace.
Training includes project management, technical communication, and using industry software. Interns practice explaining tough engineering ideas and hone their documentation skills.
Workshops highlight new tech in space exploration, like reusable rockets, spacecraft design, and mission planning. Interns get a peek at what’s next in commercial spaceflight.
Professional skills training covers time management and teamwork, prepping interns for the fast-moving aerospace world.
Company leaders often speak to intern groups about SpaceX’s mission and tech. These talks offer a window into where the company’s headed.
Interns connect with employees from many departments at social and networking events. There are informal gatherings and more structured mixers. Meeting engineers, managers, and execs from across SpaceX is part of the experience.
Career panels feature employees with all kinds of backgrounds. Former interns who now work full-time share their stories. It’s proof that internships can lead to real jobs.
Facility tours and technical demos let interns see rocket manufacturing and spacecraft assembly up close. These experiences make SpaceX’s work feel very real.
SpaceX interns get in on mission-critical projects that shape space exploration and humanity’s future off Earth. Projects range from rocket landing systems to satellite communications for current and future missions.
SpaceX gives interns responsibilities on par with full-time engineers. They work on projects that push the company’s main missions forward.
Interns help develop Starship, the huge rocket meant to carry humans to Mars. One intern spent two summers with the Starship GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) team, working on landing and catch systems for the superheavy booster.
The Falcon Heavy program is another area where interns contribute. This rocket handles NASA missions and commercial launches. Interns get involved in design, testing, and manufacturing.
Satellite communications projects also see plenty of intern input. These systems keep Starlink running and will support future Mars missions.
Elon Musk’s dream of humans living on Mars depends on tech that interns help build today. Every project moves SpaceX a bit closer to making life multiplanetary.
SpaceX interns have jumped right into some pretty wild aerospace tech projects lately. They’ve taken on everything from hardware design to figuring out better ways to manufacture parts.
Interns on rocket engine development teams get hands-on with propulsion systems—the same engines that send Falcon 9 and Starship into space. They help run tests and suggest design changes.
When it comes to landing system technology, interns pitch in on the autonomous landing systems. These systems let SpaceX rockets come back down to Earth safely, which is still kind of mind-blowing if you think about it.
Interns also help make manufacturing processes smoother. They work with seasoned engineers to streamline how SpaceX builds its rockets.
On the spacecraft life support systems side, interns tackle projects that’ll support future human missions to Mars. These systems need to work perfectly in space, so there’s a lot at stake.
All this hands-on work gives interns real experience with actual spaceflight hardware. That’s something you just can’t get from a textbook.
Landing a SpaceX internship is tough, no doubt about it. You’ll need to prepare your application, focus on academics, and build up your technical skills if you want a real shot.
The top candidates usually blend solid grades with hands-on project experience and some pretty specific technical abilities.
SpaceX gets flooded with internship applications every year. If you want to stand out, you’ll need to show off real achievements and experience that actually matters.
Strong academics are pretty much the baseline. Most interns keep their GPAs above 3.5 and take challenging classes. If you’re in engineering, make sure to highlight courses in advanced math, physics, and design.
Hands-on project experience really matters at SpaceX. They look for people who join:
Timing your application can make a difference. Past interns suggest applying during fall or spring, not just waiting for summer.
Networking can open doors. Go to career fairs where SpaceX is recruiting, or try reaching out to employees on LinkedIn for a peek into the company’s culture.
Your resume should focus on technical projects. Show what you’ve built or accomplished, not just where you’ve worked.
SpaceX brings in interns from all sorts of technical backgrounds. Their projects cover a lot of ground, so there’s room for different majors.
Aerospace engineering is the obvious route. You’ll learn about propulsion, aerodynamics, and spacecraft design—basically, all the good stuff SpaceX does.
Mechanical engineering is super useful too. SpaceX needs people who know materials, thermal systems, and mechanical design for their fast-paced manufacturing.
If you’re into electrical or computer engineering, you’ll work on avionics, flight computers, or ground systems. Software engineering is getting more important as SpaceX pushes further into autonomous tech.
Manufacturing engineering lines up well with SpaceX’s need for speed. They want students who know lean manufacturing, quality control, and automation.
Materials science plays a big part in engine development and thermal protection. Chemical engineering supports propellants and life support.
Computer science students handle flight software, simulations, and data analysis. Physics majors often help with propulsion research and mission planning.
Technical chops set the best candidates apart. SpaceX expects interns to pitch in from the start.
Programming skills are a must. Python is great for data and automation. C++ works for real-time and embedded stuff. MATLAB handles modeling and simulation.
You’ll want to know CAD, too. SolidWorks and CATIA experience shows you can design real parts. Try building complicated assemblies and making detailed drawings.
Manufacturing know-how goes a long way. If you understand machining, welding, or composites, you’ll be more helpful on hardware projects.
Systems thinking is a big deal. SpaceX likes interns who see how all the subsystems fit together in a rocket.
Lab experience helps you stand out. Grab research opportunities that involve instruments, data collection, or experiments.
Project management comes in handy as you take on more responsibility. Leading teams or running big projects shows you can handle leadership.
Don’t forget about communication. You’ll need to write up designs, give presentations, and work with different teams.
A lot of students curious about SpaceX internships want to know about qualifications, how to apply, and what the program actually involves. SpaceX sets pretty clear requirements for GPA, duration, and eligibility, so it’s smart to check those before you apply.
SpaceX looks for students with good grades and real-world experience outside class. They usually want a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or better.
The best applicants can point to real contributions in extracurriculars—like design teams, robotics, or their own technical projects.
You don’t have to be an engineer. SpaceX has internship spots in engineering, computer science, finance, supply chain, business operations, and even legal.
SpaceX mostly offers internships to college students, not high schoolers. They focus on undergrads and grad students who can handle tough technical work.
If you’re in high school, work on building your skills. Join STEM competitions, start engineering projects, and keep your grades up so you’re ready for college.
Think about applying during your first year of college, once you meet the eligibility rules.
SpaceX internships last at least 12 weeks. They offer programs in spring, summer, and fall, so you can find one that fits your school schedule.
Most summer internships run from May to August. That gives you time to actually finish a project and get some solid experience.
You’ll get to work on real spacecraft development and production during that time.
SpaceX internships run into issues with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). These rules limit who can access certain aerospace tech.
Most roles require you to be a US citizen or permanent resident. SpaceX can’t sponsor work visas for interns because of these laws.
International students should double-check their status before applying. Sometimes business roles have different rules than engineering ones.
SpaceX pays interns pretty well. The amount depends on your role, education level, and where you’re working.
Engineering interns usually earn more than those in business or admin. Grad students often get paid more than undergrads.
Interns might also get perks like help with housing, transportation, or access to company facilities.
SpaceX internships? Yeah, they’re tough to get. The company’s reputation attracts a massive number of applicants, but they only offer a handful of spots each semester.
You’ll usually go through a few interview rounds. First, someone from HR will reach out for a quick screening.
If you make it past that, you’ll talk to engineering teams. Those technical interviews dig into undergraduate engineering topics.
They’ll ask about things like mechanical design, structures, and fluid dynamics. Sometimes they’ll throw in a problem-solving scenario that actually relates to the job you want.
