Summer 2026 Chemist Intern

Company: Sierra Space
Location: Madison
Posted on: April 2, 2026

Job Description:

Sierra Space Careers: At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth. Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond. Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space. We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team. About the Role About You Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower – to join us in this critical mission. We’re looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals – while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement. Launch Your Future at Sierra Space Begin your career journey alongside the industry's most brilliant and innovative minds. At Sierra Space, interns engage with meaningful projects while developing the foundation for an exceptional career in aerospace and defense. Our early career professionals benefit from a distinctive experience—receiving dedicated mentorship while collaborating directly with recognized industry experts on real-world challenges aligned with their academic focus. Bring your knowledge and passion for learning, and we'll provide transformative experience. Summer Intern Academy The Sierra Space Summer Intern Academy runs for 12 weeks during the summer of 2026 for undergrad students graduating between December 2026 and June 2027. Participants work on meaningful projects, network with industry experts, and develop skills at one of our state-of-the-art facilities. Positions Available As a Chemist in Catalyst Synthesis and Laboratory Research, you will support hands-on laboratory activities focused on the development, characterization, and performance evaluation of catalytic materials. Working directly in our laboratory environment, you will apply your doctoral-level knowledge to catalyst synthesis, experimental testing, and data analysis while gaining valuable industry research experience. The position requires maintaining detailed experimental records, following strict laboratory safety procedures, and collaborating with team members to interpret results. You'll also assist with basic characterization techniques, sample preparation, post-test analysis, and help maintain laboratory organization and equipment readiness. Launch Your Future at Sierra Space Begin your career journey alongside the industry's most brilliant and innovative minds. At Sierra Space, interns engage with meaningful projects while developing the foundation for an exceptional career in aerospace and defense. Our early career professionals benefit from a distinctive experience—receiving dedicated mentorship while collaborating directly with recognized industry experts on real-world challenges aligned with their academic focus. Bring your knowledge and passion for learning, and we'll provide transformative experience. Summer Intern Academy The Sierra Space Summer Intern Academy runs for 12 weeks during the summer of 2026 for undergrad students graduating between December 2026 and June 2027. Participants work on meaningful projects, network with industry experts, and develop skills at one of our state-of-the-art facilities. Positions Available As a Chemist in Catalyst Synthesis and Laboratory Research, you will support hands-on laboratory activities focused on the development, characterization, and performance evaluation of catalytic materials. Working directly in our laboratory environment, you will apply your doctoral-level knowledge to catalyst synthesis, experimental testing, and data analysis while gaining valuable industry research experience. The position requires maintaining detailed experimental records, following strict laboratory safety procedures, and collaborating with team members to interpret results. You'll also assist with basic characterization techniques, sample preparation, post-test analysis, and help maintain laboratory organization and equipment readiness. Professional Development During your internship, you will: Master essential business processes and procedures Strengthen your technical expertise through hands-on application and expert guidance Participate in our comprehensive program developed by our University Talent Acquisition team Engage in cross-functional workshops and leadership sessions that provide valuable insights into our operations and Sierra Space's forward-thinking culture Join us in our mission to build the next generation of space innovation and become part of the team that's expanding humanity's reach beyond Earth. Minimum Qualifications Actively enrolled in an undergrad degree program. Expected graduation date between December 2026-June 2027. Strong laboratory experience in chemistry or chemical engineering research Hands-on experience with catalyst synthesis and preparation methods Demonstrated ability to work effectively in laboratory environments with attention to safety and detail Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including clear documentation of procedures and results Strong organizational skills, detail-oriented, and self-initiative The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance is required. To conform to U.S. Government international trade regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce. Preferred Qualifications Background in heterogeneous catalysis, reaction engineering, materials synthesis, or surface science Experience with catalyst characterization techniques Demonstrated ability to analyze experimental data and summarize technical findings Passion for solving problems by leveraging data and technology Ability to work independently on laboratory tasks while collaborating effectively in a team environment Preferred Majors Chemical Engineering Chemistry Materials Science Closely Related Field Office Environment Corporate, in-person internship Job Location We have opportunities available in the below locations for this role. Madison, WI Compensation The pay rate for this internship is $30.00/hour About Sierra Space Headquartered in Colorado, Sierra Space is an industry-leading defense-tech space company. We design, manufacture, and deliver satellites, spacecraft and space subsystems including reusable spaceplanes, hypersonic technologies, propulsion systems, and infrastructure for the nation’s most critical missions. With more than three decades of space flight heritage, expansive classified and unclassified infrastructure and disruptive cutting-edge technology, Sierra Space is trusted by National Security, civil and commercial customers. Our flight-proven technologies advance our customers’ missions, including safeguarding our nation, protecting space-based assets, and enabling the next generation of space exploration and economic development. Sierra Space is dedicated to defining the new era of space defense, strengthening deterrence today and preserving freedom of action for generations to come. Compensation : Pay : $30.00 Elevate Your Career At Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations. We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more. Sierra Space is an industry-leading space and defense technology company providing satellites, spacecraft, and enabling mission systems and components. We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration. Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified. Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees. Sierra Space Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment with Sierra Space or at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us .

Keywords: Sierra Space, Crystal Lake , Summer 2026 Chemist Intern, Engineering , Madison, Illinois