Job Description
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on uncrewed systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.
GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:
The Quality Engineering Intern supports the Quality Engineering team by assisting with product inspections, quality lab activities, documentation, and data organization related to product quality and engineering verification. This position is designed for a high school senior preparing to enter college in an engineering or technical field and provides hands-on exposure to engineering, manufacturing, and quality processes within an aerospace and propulsion systems environment.
Working under the mentorship of a Quality Engineer, the intern will assist with measuring parts, reviewing engineering drawings, organizing inspection data, and supporting quality documentation systems such as UniPoint and PDM. The intern will gain practical experience in how engineers verify product quality and ensure components meet design requirements.
This internship provides real-world exposure to engineering and manufacturing while helping the student build foundational technical, analytical, and professional skills.
Essential Job Functions
Quality Lab & Inspection Support
• Assist with quality lab activities including measurement and verification of parts and components
• Support dimensional inspection using tools such as:
• Calipers
• Micrometers
• Height gauges
• Basic measurement equipment
• Compare measured dimensions to engineering drawings and specifications
• Assist in preparing inspection reports and quality documentation
• Assist in calibration of measuring equipment
Engineering Data Entry & Documentation
• Enter inspection and measurement data into UniPoint quality system and PDM/engineering data systems
• Assist with maintaining traceability of inspection records and quality documentation
• Help organize engineering documentation associated with inspection activities
Production & Shop Floor Exposure
• Work alongside engineers and technicians to observe how products are manufactured and assembled
• Assist with documenting quality issues identified during production
• Help maintain organization and traceability of inspected components
Engineering Drawing & Documentation Exposure
• Learn how to read basic engineering drawings and product specifications
• Assist engineers in organizing and reviewing documentation related to product quality
• Support preparation of quality reports and summaries
Quality Data & Reporting
• Assist with organizing and entering quality-related data into spreadsheets and quality systems
• Help create charts or summaries showing trends in production quality
• Support preparation of reports used during engineering or production meetings
Continual Improvement & Learning
• Participate in discussions related to quality improvements and problem-solving
• Assist with documentation of lessons learned and improvement opportunities
• Observe how engineers investigate and solve technical problems
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
During this internship the student will gain exposure to:
• Basic engineering and manufacturing processes
• Quality inspection and measurement techniques
• Engineering drawings and technical documentation
• Quality systems and data traceability
• Problem solving and engineering investigation methods
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
• No supervisory responsibilities
• Works directly under the guidance and mentorship of a Quality Engineer
Experience And Skills
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Required
• Interest in engineering, manufacturing, or technical careers
• Strong attention to detail
• Willingness to learn and ask questions
• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Excel or similar tools)
• Ability to follow instructions and work in a team environment
• Strong communication and organizational skills
Preferred
• Interest in pursuing a college degree in:
• Mechanical Engineering
• Aerospace Engineering
• Manufacturing Engineering
• Industrial Engineering
• Quality Engineering
• or related technical field
EDUCATION
• High School Senior preparing to enter college
• Interest in STEM-related studies preferred
Work Environment / Physical Requirements
• Combination of office, quality lab, and manufacturing environments
• Opportunity to observe engineering, production, and inspection activities
• May require standing or walking in manufacturing areas
• May occasionally lift parts or materials up to 50 lbs
Travel Requirements
• Some to suppliers
THE ABOVE STATEMENTS ARE INTENDED TO DESCRIBE THE GENERAL NATURE AND LEVEL OF WORK BEING PERFORMED BY INDIVIDUALS ASSIGNED TO THIS CLASSIFICATION. THEY ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE CONSTRUED AS AN EXHAUSTIVE LIST OF ALL RESPONSIBILITIES, DUTIES AND SKILLS REQUIRED OF PERSONNEL SO CLASSIFIED.
A REVIEW OF THIS CLASSIFICATION HAS EXCLUDED THE MARGINAL FUNCTIONS OF THE CLASSIFICATION THAT ARE INCIDENTAL TO THE PERFORMANCE OF FUNDAMENTAL JOB JUTIES. ALL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ARE ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS AND ARE SUBJECT TO POSSIBLE MODIFICATION TO REASONABLY ACCOMMODATE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES TO PERFORM THIS JOB PROFICIENTLY. THE REQUIREMENTS LISTED IN THIS DOCUMENT ARE THE MINIMUM LEVELS OF KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS OR ABILITIES.
EEO/M/F/D/V
Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer. EOE, Minorities, Females, Vet, Disabled, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity or any other protected class. All qualified job seekers are encouraged to apply. Kratos Defense is committed to America's veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing after service to our nation. We also work to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.
EEO Is The Law
Disability Accessibility Accommodation
If you require an accommodation to navigate or apply to our careers site, please send your request to HRAccessibility@kratosdefense.com or call 858-964-2916. Any inquires not related to requesting an accommodation will be discarded.
Pay Transparency
The company will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant.
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