NASA Johnson Space Center Opens Digital Engineering Developer Internship for Summer 2026: Apply Now

NASA's Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston, Texas, is recruiting for a Digital Engineering Developer. This is a highly technical internship for Summer 2026 designed for students who want to modernize how space missions are designed and built.

This role sits at the cutting edge of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE). You won't just be writing code; you will be contributing to the normalization and formalization of "Digital Engineering" at NASA. This involves moving away from document-based engineering to data-centric models that create a "Digital Thread" throughout a mission's lifecycle.

Detailed Role & Key Responsibilities

As an intern, you will help implement pilot digital engineering systems and demonstrate their utility to NASA engineers. Your daily tasks will bridge the gap between software development and systems engineering.

1. Digital Threads & Systems

You will work on creating the connective tissue between different engineering models.

• Implementation: Implement pilot digital engineering systems and "digital threads" (the flow of data between systems).
• Utility: Demonstrate how these digital tools improve efficiency and accuracy in mission planning.

2. Coding & Automation

This is a hands-on coding role requiring strong scripting skills.

• API Integration: Develop scripts to interface with RestAPIs to connect disparate tools.
• Automation: Write code and report templates to enhance model-based simulation applications.
• Languages: You will likely use Python, Java, and/or Velocity.

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

NASA has specific citizenship and academic requirements for this role.

1. Academic Status

• Level: Open to Undergraduate (Sophomore, Junior, Senior) and Graduate (Master's) students.
• Preferred Majors: Computer Science, Software Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Data Processing, or Computer Engineering.

2. Citizenship (Strict)

• US Citizens Only: You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply. (Permanent Residents/Green Card holders are not eligible for this specific position).

3. Technical Skills

• Required: Understanding of software application architectures and RestAPI interface development. Skill in Python or Java.
• Desired (Plus): An understanding of SysML (Systems Modeling Language) and MBSE tools (like Cameo or MagicDraw) is a significant advantage.

Key Dates & Logistics

• Registration Opens: December 15, 2025
• Registration Closes: February 27, 2026
• Session: Summer 2026 (Full-time)
• Format: In-person at Johnson Space Center (Houston, TX).

How to Apply

To apply, you must use the NASA STEM Gateway. You will need to create a profile and search for the specific opportunity ID.

Step 1: Go to the NASA STEM Gateway.
Step 2: Search for Opportunity ID: 023506.
Step 3: Submit your application before Feb 27, 2026.

Apply Here (NASA Intern Portal)