Hey there, aspiring innovator! Dream of working on cutting-edge aerospace and defense technology? An internship at Lockheed Martin could be your launchpad! It's a highly sought-after experience, but with the right approach, you can significantly boost your chances. Let's walk through the process step-by-step.
Step 1: Discover Your Path and Prepare Your Foundation ️
Before you even think about hitting "apply," it's crucial to do your homework. Lockheed Martin offers a diverse range of internships, from engineering (aerospace, mechanical, electrical, software, cyber) to business, finance, data science, human resources, public relations, and even law. Understanding where your skills and interests align is the first and most important step.
Sub-heading: Research, Research, Research!
Take some time to explore the Lockheed Martin careers website (
Sub-heading: Understand the Eligibility Criteria
While specific requirements vary by internship, generally, Lockheed Martin seeks students currently enrolled in an accredited college or university, pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. They look for candidates with a strong academic background and demonstrate problem-solving skills, strong communication, and analytical abilities. Be aware that some roles may require U.S. citizenship.
Step 2: Craft a Standout Application
This is where you make your first impression. Your resume and cover letter need to be compelling and tailored to the specific internship you're applying for.
Sub-heading: Building a Powerful Resume
Your resume is your highlight reel. It should showcase your most relevant academic achievements, skills, and experiences.
Format: Use a clear, professional, and easy-to-read format. Reverse-chronological order is generally preferred.
Keywords: This is critical for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Read the job description carefully and incorporate keywords from it into your resume. If the description mentions "SolidWorks," make sure "SolidWorks" is on your resume if you have that skill.
Quantify Your Achievements: Don't just list responsibilities. Instead of "Assisted with project design," try "Assisted with project design, resulting in a 15% reduction in material waste." Numbers speak volumes!
Relevant Experience: Highlight any academic projects, personal projects, relevant coursework, part-time jobs, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate skills applicable to the internship.
Skills Section: Include a dedicated section for technical skills (e.g., programming languages, software, tools) and soft skills (e.g., teamwork, problem-solving, communication).
Sub-heading: Writing a Persuasive Cover Letter ✍️
Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and express your genuine interest.
Personalize It: Avoid generic templates. Address the hiring manager if you can (though "Hiring Manager" is acceptable if a specific name isn't provided).
Connect Your Skills to the Role: Explain why you are a good fit for this specific internship at Lockheed Martin. How do your skills and experiences align with their mission and the responsibilities of the role?
Show Enthusiasm: Convey your passion for the aerospace and defense industry and your excitement about the opportunity to contribute to Lockheed Martin.
Conciseness: Keep it to one page, concise and to the point.
Step 3: Navigate the Online Application Portal
Lockheed Martin uses an online career portal to manage applications.
Sub-heading: Finding and Applying for Internships
Visit the official Lockheed Martin Careers website.
Navigate to the "Students & Early Careers" section.
Use the search filters to find internships that match your field of study, desired location, and interests.
Read the job descriptions thoroughly. Double-check that you meet the basic qualifications before applying.
Create an account on their portal. This will allow you to submit your application and track its status.
Carefully fill out the online application form, providing all necessary information. Upload your tailored resume and cover letter.
Sub-heading: What to Expect After Applying ⏳
Once you submit your application, recruiters will review it to see if you meet the basic qualifications. If you do, they'll consider desired skills and qualifications. The process can be competitive and sometimes lengthy, so patience is key. You can check the status of your application by logging into your candidate portal. Keep an eye on your email (and spam folder!) for communications, as they may use virtual scheduling assistants like LEO (from @paradox.ai).
Step 4: Master the Interview Process ️
If your application stands out, you'll likely be invited for an interview. This is your chance to shine! Interviews can be virtual or in-person and may involve recruiters, hiring managers, and team members.
Sub-heading: Prepare Thoroughly 易
Research the Company and Role (Again!): Have a strong understanding of Lockheed Martin's mission, values, recent projects, and the specifics of the internship role you've applied for.
Practice Common Interview Questions: Be ready for behavioral questions (e.g., "Tell me about yourself," "Why Lockheed Martin?", "How do you handle pressure?", "Describe a time you faced a challenge and how you overcame it").
The STAR Method: Lockheed Martin commonly uses the STAR method for behavioral questions. This is a structured way to answer by describing the:
Situation: Set the scene.
Task: Explain your responsibility in that situation.
Action: Describe the steps you took to address the task.
Result: Explain the outcome of your actions.
Practice using this method for various scenarios from your academic or project experience.
Prepare Questions to Ask: Showing genuine interest by asking thoughtful questions at the end of the interview is crucial. Ask about the team, daily responsibilities, mentorship opportunities, or what a typical day looks like for an intern.
Sub-heading: During the Interview
Be Professional: Dress appropriately, arrive on time (or log in early for virtual interviews), and maintain good eye contact.
Showcase Your Skills and Enthusiasm: Provide specific examples that illustrate your abilities. Be confident but humble.
Be Authentic: Let your personality come through. They want to see how you'd fit into their team.
Listen Actively: Pay attention to the interviewer's questions and respond thoughtfully.
Step 5: Follow-Up and Patience
The application process can take time. After your interview, a professional follow-up is essential.
Sub-heading: Send a Thank-You Note
Within 24 hours of your interview, send a thank-you email to each person you interviewed with.
Reiterate your interest in the position and briefly mention something specific you discussed to remind them of your conversation.
This shows professionalism and enthusiasm.
Sub-heading: Exercise Patience and Persistence 律♀️
The hiring process for a company like Lockheed Martin can be lengthy due to background checks and security clearances (which are often role-specific). Continue to monitor your application status through the portal. If you don't hear back immediately, don't get discouraged. Sometimes, offers are extended after initial candidates decline. Stay positive and keep exploring other opportunities if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to Find Lockheed Martin Internship Openings?
You can find Lockheed Martin internship openings by visiting their official careers website at lockheedmartin.com/careers and navigating to the "Students & Early Careers" section. Use the search filters to narrow down opportunities by discipline, location, and keywords.
How to Make My Resume Stand Out for Lockheed Martin?
To make your resume stand out, tailor it specifically to each job description by incorporating keywords. Quantify your achievements with numbers and results, highlight relevant projects and coursework, and ensure a clean, professional format.
How to Write a Strong Cover Letter for Lockheed Martin?
Write a strong cover letter by personalizing it to the specific internship and Lockheed Martin's mission. Clearly articulate how your skills and experiences align with the role's requirements and express your genuine enthusiasm for the company and the opportunity.
How to Prepare for a Lockheed Martin Interview?
Prepare for a Lockheed Martin interview by researching the company and the specific role thoroughly, practicing answers to common behavioral questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), and preparing thoughtful questions to ask the interviewers.
How to Handle Behavioral Questions in a Lockheed Martin Interview?
Handle behavioral questions by using the STAR method: describe the Situation, your assigned Task, the Actions you took, and the positive Result of your actions. This provides a structured and comprehensive answer.
How to Dress for a Lockheed Martin Interview?
For a Lockheed Martin interview, it's best to dress in business professional attire. This typically means a suit or professional separates (blazer, slacks/skirt, dress shirt/blouse) to convey professionalism and seriousness.
How to Follow Up After a Lockheed Martin Interview?
Follow up after a Lockheed Martin interview by sending a polite and personalized thank-you email to each interviewer within 24 hours. Briefly reiterate your interest and mention a specific point from your discussion.
How to Check My Lockheed Martin Application Status?
You can check your Lockheed Martin application status by logging into your candidate account on their official careers portal. The portal provides updates on your application's progress.
How to Get Noticed by Lockheed Martin Recruiters?
To get noticed, actively network at career fairs, maintain a strong online professional presence (like LinkedIn), ensure your resume is ATS-friendly with relevant keywords, and tailor each application to the specific role's requirements.
How to Maximize My Chances of Getting a Lockheed Martin Internship?
Maximize your chances by maintaining a strong academic record, gaining relevant project or extracurricular experience, thoroughly preparing a tailored resume and cover letter, practicing interview skills (especially the STAR method), and demonstrating genuine passion for the industry.
