Sensing Architecture Performance Graduate Intern

The Aerospace Corporation

Graduate intern evaluating space-based remote sensing architectures for Aerospace Corporation’s national space programs. Applying modeling, simulation, and technical analysis to support defense and intelligence customers.

Posted 9/7/2026full-timeEl Segundo • California, Colorado, Virginia • 🇺🇸 United StatesEntry Level💰 $32 - $48 per hourWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in aerospace engineering, physics, or operations research with a focus on space-based sensing architectures and analysis. Proficient in software development using Python or C++ and capable of delivering technical evaluations and presentations.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Aerospace EngineeringPython Software DevelopmentC++ Software DevelopmentSpace OperationsOrbital Mechanics

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

AstrodynamicsModeling & SimulationSpace-Based Remote SensingAnalysis ToolsArchitecture EvaluationTechnical PresentationsResearch & DevelopmentAcquisition DecisionsPerformance ModelingHigh-Performance Computing

Soft Skills

Personal AccountabilityDesire to LearnTeam CollaborationTask Management

Tools & Technologies

MATLABLinux Environments

Certifications & Qualifications

U.S. Government-Issued Security ClearanceTS/SCI Access

Industry Keywords

National SecurityIntelligence Mission AreasGeo-Spatial IntelligenceSignals IntelligenceSpace SurveillanceNavigation SystemsSpace ProtectionCommunications Infrastructure

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

C++LinuxPythonRemote SensingTypeScript

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Gain knowledge and experience in national security space or intelligence mission areas, including geo-spatial intelligence, signals intelligence, space surveillance, navigation systems, space protection, and communications infrastructure
Provide analysis supporting research, development, and acquisition decisions for legacy and emerging customer space-based sensing architectures
Perform architecture evaluation modeling of overall performance using in-house or custom-developed analysis tools
Work with staff, management, and project teams to translate customer needs into project objectives and provide technical evaluations
Develop and present timely, technically accurate presentations and reports communicating analysis results and recommended solutions
Aid in sustaining, developing, and growing organizational analysis and simulation capabilities

Requirements

What you’ll need

Currently enrolled full-time in an accredited college/university program pursuing a Master's or Ph.D. degree in aerospace engineering, physics, operations research, mathematics, or a related field, OR BS completed 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 Master's or Ph.D. degree program after completion of the internship
Minimum GPA 3.0
Familiarity with astrodynamics or space operations
Ability to interact and work with a diverse team in different locations
Familiarity with one or more software languages, including Python, C++, or MATLAB
Personal accountability, desire to learn, and ability to manage several simultaneous tasks
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government-issued security clearance; U.S. citizenship required to obtain a security clearance
Transcripts required
Previous experience in listed functional/mission areas preferred
Academic background in systems engineering, modeling & simulation, or space-based remote sensing architectures preferred
Experience developing and presenting analysis results preferred
Proficiency in orbital mechanics or space operations preferred
Proficiency with Python or C++ software development preferred
Familiarity with High-Performance Computing/Linux environments preferred
Current TS/SCI access with a polygraph preferred

Benefits

Comp & perks

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
Inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect