Intern (m/f/d) GNC - Reusable Launch Vehicles

About Rocket Factory Augsburg

At Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA), we have one clear goal: to create low-cost, flexible, and reliable access to space. We specialize in building small launch vehicles designed to deploy satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and beyond. Together with you, we aim to revolutionize space services and help improve life on Earth. Sounds interesting? Then join our journey and become part of the team driving the New Space movement in Europe.

About the Team

Our international and agile team is searching for a motivated Intern in Flight Dynamics & GNC for Reusable Launch Vehicles (m/f/d). You enjoy working in a dedicated, dynamic and international environment that aims for high-performance engineering solutions in aerospace technology? Are you excited by the prospect of developing algorithms and testing flight software on real hardware to guide a first stage from re-entry to a precision landing? Join our team and help shape the future of spaceflight. 

Your Tasks

• Develop multi-body mathematical models for entry, descent and landing dynamics and design autonomous guidance algorithms for real-time trajectory optimization that ensures precision landing within operational limits

• Develop optimal control allocation strategies across TVC, RCS and aerodynamic control surfaces, managing highly non-linear aerodynamic regimes and cross-axis coupling during flight

• Design and build HIL test infrastructure to validate software on real flight avionics and conduct trade studies to select optimal landing sensor architectures and testing environments

• Perform FMEA, run extensive Monte Carlo simulations with failure injection and implement health-checks to trigger safe diversion trajectories away from the landing site if vehicle systems are compromised

• Architect ground systems and interfaces to support landing operations

Your Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in Bachelor or Master studies in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics or related discipline

• Demonstrated experience in numerical simulation, optimization or control algorithms (proven through academic projects, student competitions or prior industry experience)

• Background in mathematical modelling in Matlab and Simulink

• Experience working with Python, C/C++, Git

• Independent, hands-on mindset with a structured and methodical approach to problem-solving

• Fluent in oral and written English, as all engineering tasks, tools and documentation activities are conducted exclusively in English

We Offer

Atmosphere	Atmosphere: Experience life in an international & dynamic New Space start-up
Flexibility	Flexibility: Fit your working schedule to your needs with flexible working hours
Health	Health: Sweat, stretch or squat it out with EGYM Wellpass
Paid Time Off	Paid Time Off: 20 days annual leave and special leave days
Paid Time Off	Team Culture: Join regular company and team events
Parking	Parking: Free Parking for car and bike

Writing Tip: Explain why a benefit matters to employees. Instead of simply listing perks, highlight the value they provide in terms of flexibility, well-being, development, culture, or work-life balance.

Insights

Showcase your team, technology, mission, culture, or workplace through a short video. Authentic content helps candidates understand the environment and can significantly increase engagement.

Ready to take the next step?

Join RFA and help build one of Europe’s most efficient launch systems. Work alongside 300+ colleagues from over 40 countries and take ownership from day one.

If you’re looking to grow, take responsibility, and contribute to making space more accessible, we’d love to hear from you.

🚀 Apply now! We look forward to receiving your application in German or English.