2027 Rendezvous and Proximity Operations Grad Intern

The Aerospace Corporation; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 44,000 - 66,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) Plan

Relocation assistance

Job summary

The Aerospace Corporation in El Segundo, CA seeks a student for a 10-week internship in the Enterprise Effects Division. You will work with our RPO Analysis and Integration Department on modeling, simulation, and analysis for orbital rendezvous and space-domain awareness.

Required: pursuing MS/PhD in STEM, ability to obtain Top Secret/SCI clearance, 3.0+ GPA, and proficiency in C/C++, Python, and MATLAB. This internship is full-time on-site and pays $32–$48 per hour.

Qualifications

• Pursuing MS or PhD in a STEM field or senior class standing by internship start date.
• Must be able to work full-time for 10 weeks outside of the university term and return to studies afterward.
• Top Secret/SCI eligibility and US citizenship required; transcripts may be required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and mature analysis software tools for modeling, simulation, and analysis of space missions and orbital mechanics.
• Conduct analyses of system performance and architecture alternatives.
• Collaborate with Aerospace personnel across locations to support RPO objectives.

Skills

C

C++

Python

Fortran

MATLAB

Education

MS or PhD in aerospace engineering/physics/mathematics

Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.Job SummaryThe Enterprise Effects Division (EED) drives integration of Aerospace’s strategic capabilities across the national space enterprise. The division leverages a broad array of engineering disciplines against a diverse and dynamic portfolio of programs, customers, and national challenges. EED spans the capability lifecycle from concept and architecture design to performance assessment to application of space and space-enabled capabilities.The RPO Analysis and Integration Department (RAID) is one of EED’s premier orbital engagement and rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO) modeling and analysis groups. We deliver impactful mission-level modeling, simulation and integration support to a variety of military and civil customers to enable the key missions that will service and protect critical space infrastructure.What You’ll Be DoingWork closely with Aerospace technical staff to develop and mature analysis software tools that are used to conduct a range of modeling, simulation, and analysis in areas such as space mission design, orbital maneuvers, orbit estimation, and space domain awareness for RPO objectives.Conduct analyses of system performance and architecture alternatives.Interact directly with local Aerospace personnel and collaborate with Aerospace personnel in other locations.What You Need to be SuccessfulPursuing a MS or PhD degree at an accredited college/university degree program in aerospace engineering, physics, applied mathematics, or other STEM-related discipline, or Senior class standing by internship start date and enrolled in a graduate STEM degree program beginning Fall 2027.Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term and ability to return to a degree program full-time after completion of the internship.Proficiency with one or more of the following programming languages/tools: C, C++, Python, Fortran, MATLABDemonstrated ability to work well independently and in teamsMinimum GPA of 3.0The ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the US Government. US citizenship is required to obtain a security clearanceTranscripts required for this positionHow You Can Stand OutResearch experience working as a member of a technical teamCoursework or relevant experience in technical writing and technical presentationCoursework, research, or professional experience in astrodynamics/orbital mechanics topicsCoursework, research, or professional experience in space-based modeling, simulation, and analysis, such as space mission analysis and design, algorithm design, and mathematical modelingCoursework, research, or professional experience in advanced mathematical topics, such as optimization theory, game theory, statistical estimation, and numerical analysisCoursework or relevant experience in modern software development, integration, and testing practicesPrior space-related work experience for a US government agency or contractorCurrent DoD or SCI security clearanceWe offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.(Min - Max)$32.00 - $48.00Pay Basis: HourlyLeadership CompetenciesOur leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:Operate StrategicallyLead ChangeEngage with ImpactFoster InnovationDeliver ResultsWays We Reward Our EmployeesDuring your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:Comprehensive health care and wellness plansPaid holidays, sick time, and vacationStandard and alternate work schedules, including telework options401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hireFlexible spending accountsVariable pay program for exceptional contributionsRelocation assistanceProfessional growth and development programs to help advance your careerEducation assistance programsAn inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respectWe are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.Equal Opportunity CommitmentThe Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you’re an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at [e-mail] . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal .