2027 Space Object Risk Graduate Intern

The Aerospace Corporation; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 44,000 - 66,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health care

Paid holidays

Education assistance

Relocation assistance

Job summary

The Aerospace Corporation in Chantilly, VA is offering an internship within the Space Object Risk Department (SORD) to help integrate engineering disciplines across national space programs. You will work on real-time collision avoidance, debris events, and space traffic management while developing analysis tools under the guidance of senior staff.

Eligible candidates are enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program in aerospace, physics, or mathematics and must be able to obtain a U.S.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled full-time in a college/university program pursuing a Master’s or PhD in aerospace, physics, mathematics or related technical discipline.
• Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks and return to MS/PhD studies afterward.
• Aptitude in astrodynamics and related mathematics.
• Experience with Python, C++, Fortran and HPC environments is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to focus areas of support in the SORD and EED programs.
• Apply and develop analysis tools and techniques as needed.
• Collaborate with department staff as part of the project team(s).
• Training and mentorship will be provided.

Skills

Python

C++

Fortran

High Performance Computing

Team coordination

Tools

Security clearance TS/SCI

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 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 Space Object Risk Department (SORD) is the corporation focal point for assessing and mitigating risk associated with space object conjunctions during launch, on-orbit, and through disposal. SORD supports real-time operations for launch and on-orbit collision avoidance and debris generating events. In addition, SORD provides technical expertise in space traffic management, space object tracking and orbit determination, electrooptical interference, space environment projection, and discrete event modeling and simulation.Work ModelThis position will require onsite support for 100% on site in either Chantilly, VA, El Segundo, CA, or Colorado Springs, COWhat You’ll Be DoingContribute to one or more of the focus areas of support listed aboveApply and develop analysis tools and techniques as necessaryWork routinely with department staff as part of the project team(s)Tasking will vary during the internship and may include multiple, simultaneous projectsTraining and mentorship will be providedWhat You Need to be SuccessfulMinimum Requirements:Currently enrolled full-time in an accredited college/university program pursuing a (Master's or PhD) in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Mathematics or related technical disciplineAvailability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term and ability to return to a MS or PhD degree program full-time after completion of the internship.Aptitude in astrodynamics and related mathematicsSkills in the development and use of computer software toolsThis position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.Transcripts are required for this positionHow You Can Stand OutIt would be impressive if you have one or more of these:Experience with Python, C++, Fortran, and/or High Performance Computing environmentsDirect experience in primary department areas of supportExpertise in team coordination and/or mentorshipCurrent and active Top-Secret Clearance (TS) with SCI accessTemporary housing assistance is not available.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 - $48.00Pay 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 .