Electric Propulsion — Optical Diagnostics & Test Engineering

We are seeking a motivated Electric Propulsion Intern to support the development, testing, and characterization of advanced electric propulsion systems.

This role is ideal for a student with hands‑on laboratory experience in high-speed optical diagnostics, cathode systems, vacuum chambers, plasma diagnostics, and propulsion test equipment.

The intern will work closely with engineers and researchers to design, operate, and improve experimental test setups for electric propulsion devices, including Hall‑effect thrusters, cathodes, plasma sources, and related subsystem hardware.

• Support testing and characterization of electric propulsion systems, cathodes, and plasma devices.
• Configure and operate diagnostic equipment such as:
  High‑speed cameras Photodiodes and optical sensors Spectrometers Langmuir probes Oscilloscopes DAQ systems
• Assist with high‑speed optical diagnostics data capture and post‑processing.
• Collect, process, and analyze experimental data from propulsion and cathode tests.
• Build, modify, and troubleshoot laboratory hardware, cables, mounts, sensors, and test fixtures.
• Document test configurations, procedures, results, anomalies, and lessons learned.
• Collaborate with engineers to improve diagnostic methods, test repeatability, and data quality.

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Physics, or a related field.
• Hands‑on laboratory experience with one or more of the following:
  Electric propulsion systems Plasma diagnostics Cathodes or hollow cathodes Vacuum chambers Optical diagnostics High‑speed imaging Instrumentation or data acquisition Familiarity with basic electrical test equipment, such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, power supplies, and signal generators.
• Comfortable working in a hands‑on lab environment with mechanical, electrical, and vacuum hardware.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow test procedures.
• Ability to document work clearly and communicate technical results.

• TSC offers a stable work environment, a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package; including ESOP participation, 401k Plan, Flexible Work Schedules, Tuition Reimbursement, Co‑Sponsored Health Plan, Paid Leave and much more.
• TSC offers a professional working environment, a competitive salary, and an excellent benefits package.

Employment at TSC is contingent upon the successful completion of a comprehensive background check, security investigation, and a drug screening.

This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or for inquiring about, discussing, or disclosing information about compensation.

Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, TSC is an employee‑owned company that has been providing high‑quality technical services and solutions for our customers' for over 50 years.

Our diverse portfolio includes providing;
Airborne Sensors and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR);
Electronic Warfare Systems;
Air and Missile Defense;
Space Systems, and Intelligence and Information Systems.

TSC offers a professional working environment, a competitive salary, and an excellent benefits package.

Come and join our team! Internships/CO‑Ops