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

How You Can Stand Out

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 :

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 :

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 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 peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights : Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.