2026 Space Vehicle and Ground Systems Engineer - Graduate Intern

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.

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.

The Systems Engineering Division (SED) drives improved acquisition decisions, ensures systems are available when and where needed, and system capabilities integrate, and work as needed. The division leverages a broad array of engineering disciplines against a dynamic portfolio of programs, customers, and national challenges. SED spans the acquisition lifecycle from development to operations.

As part of the System Realization Subdivision (SRS), the Vehicle and Ground Implementation Department (VGID) provides development, assessment, and closure of vehicle and ground designs. As a member of this department, you will be supporting the acquisition of the next generation of innovative spacecraft and ground systems to solve the most challenging problems of our US Space Force, Intelligence Community, NASA, NOAA, and commercial / international customers.

The candidate selected will work full-time on-site in El Segundo, CA or Chantilly, VA

What You'll Be Doing

Leading and supporting space vehicle and ground design studies; types of studies can include both small, individual efforts as well as larger, multidisciplinary teams of subject matter experts.

Leading and assisting with development, maintenance, and improvement of design tools and models used during spacecraft design and analysis activities

Utilize and maintain prototyping tools, hardware, and equipment in the RAPID Center to support active programs, while actively participating in steering group meetings to support future center development

Collaborating with and learning from VGID staff, program office personnel, as well as other members of Aerospace's engineering group, including the large cohort of Aerospace interns

What You Need to be Successful

Currently enrolled full-time in an accredited graduate program pursuing a Master's Degree or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline

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

Knowledge of and / or relevant coursework in spacecraft subsystems, system engineering, aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science or other related topics

A desire to work on both individual efforts, as well as in large multi-disciplinary engineering teams

Strong interpersonal and communications skills and ability to excel in a collaborative environment; this also requires proficiency with office and collaboration tools, such as MS Office

Strong leadership skills

This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

Minimum GPA of 3.0 or better on 4.0 scale

Transcripts required

How You Can Stand Out

Active security clearance

Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, adapt quickly to changing priorities, and balance projects with conflicting time demands

Proficiency in modeling and simulation tools, and programming languages, including one or more of the following : MATLAB, Python, Simulink, STK, C++, VBA, SolidWorks, Cameo, or similar

Strong, demonstrated personal initiative

Temporary 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)

$35.00 - $38.00 Pay Basis : Hourly

Leadership Competencies

Our 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 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 spending accounts

Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

Relocation assistance

Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

Education assistance programs

An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We 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 Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an equalopportunity 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,geneticinformation, 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 emailat peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org .You can also review Know Your Rights : Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.