2027 Rendezvous and Proximity Operations Grad Intern

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

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare plans

Paid holidays and vacation

Telework options

401(k) Plan

Job summary

The Aerospace Corporation is seeking a highly motivated student for a 10-week internship in the Enterprise Effects Division. You will work with aerospace engineers to develop and mature analysis software for modeling and simulation of space mission design, orbital maneuvers, and space-domain awareness for RPO objectives.

Successful candidates are pursuing an MS or PhD in a STEM field, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, and can obtain a TS/SCI clearance (US citizenship required).

Qualifications

• Pursuing an MS or PhD in aerospace engineering, physics, applied mathematics, or related STEM field.
• Enrollment in graduate STEM program with Fall 2027 start date.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 and ability to obtain Top Secret/SCI clearance.
• U.S. citizenship is required for security clearance and transcripts are required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and mature analysis software tools for modeling, simulation, and analysis in space mission design and related areas.
• Analyze system performance and compare architecture alternatives.
• Interact with local Aerospace staff and collaborate with teams at other locations.

Skills

C

C++

Python

Fortran

MATLAB

Education

MS or PhD in aerospace engineering or related STEM

Senior class standing by internship start date

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 Summary

The 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.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Work 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 Successful

• Pursuing 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, MATLAB.
• Demonstrated ability to work well independently and in teams.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0.
• The 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 clearance.
• Transcripts required for this position.

How You Can Stand Out

• Research experience working as a member of a technical team.
• Coursework or relevant experience in technical writing and technical presentation.
• Coursework, research, or professional experience in astrodynamics/orbital mechanics topics.
• Coursework, research, or professional experience in space-based modeling, simulation, and analysis, such as space mission analysis and design, algorithm design, and mathematical modeling.
• Coursework, research, or professional experience in advanced mathematical topics, such as optimization theory, game theory, statistical estimation, and numerical analysis.
• Coursework or relevant experience in modern software development, integration, and testing practices.
• Prior space-related work experience for a US government agency or contractor.
• Current DoD or SCI security clearance.

We offer a competitive compensation package

We 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 - $48.00

Pay Basis: Hourly

Leadership Competencies

• Operate Strategically
• Lead Change
• Engage with Impact
• Foster Innovation
• Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During 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 plans
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
• 401(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 hire
• Flexible spe