Flight Software Research Intern- AI Powered Agentic Design

Role Description

The Flight Software & AI Research Intern will support advanced research and development efforts within the Guidance, Navigation, and Controls (GN&C) team, with a primary focus on AI-driven modeling and simulation. This role is designed as a hands-on learning opportunity for graduate students majoring in Computer Science who are interested in applying advanced software engineering and artificial intelligence techniques to aerospace systems, embedded platforms, and high-fidelity simulations.

• This position supports the development of AI-powered agentic design and execution workflows for 6-DOF modeling and simulation software.
• The role offers close mentorship from experienced engineers and exposure to real-world aerospace research challenges.
• This position is based out of Mclaurin Aerospace in Knoxville, TN, with remote work considered for qualified candidates.

This internship offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of AI, flight software, and aerospace research, contributing to real development efforts rather than purely academic exercises. Interns gain meaningful exposure to production-level code, research-grade simulations, and advanced aerospace systems.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the design, development, and testing of AI-enabled modeling and simulation software architectures.
• Support ongoing development of 6-DOF launch vehicle and spacecraft modeling and simulation software.
• Prototype system architectures for agentic decision-making assistants.
• Participate in software verification and validation activities, including unit testing and security demonstration.
• Create and maintain technical documentation for software architecture, algorithms, interfaces, and test procedures.
• Collaborate in code reviews, debugging efforts, and flight readiness or system validation activities.
• Work closely with GN&C engineers and researchers in a fast-paced R&D environment.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Master's degree (preferred) or PhD in Computer Science.
• This role is intended for true Computer Science majors; other engineering disciplines will be considered only if the candidate demonstrates strong CS depth.
• Strong programming experience in C/C++ and/or Python.
• Solid foundation in software engineering principles, algorithms, and data structures.
• Experience or coursework related to one or more of the following is highly desirable:
  • Artificial intelligence or machine learning.
  • Using LLMs for decision making applications.
  • Software containerization.
  • Familiarity with Linux-based development environments.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and debugging skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a technical team.

Requirements

• Student positions require a minimum commitment of 20 hours per pay period.
• Some project phases may require additional time commitments; however, schedules are intentionally designed to support and accommodate academic responsibilities.
• Each intern will work closely with a technical mentor, ensuring alignment between assigned tasks and the student's academic and professional goals.
• This position is open to US citizen students residing in HUBZone qualified areas only.

Company Description