Space Object Risk Graduate Intern

The Aerospace Corporation

Graduate intern supporting space-object risk analysis, conjunction assessment, and collision avoidance. Developing technical tools for The Aerospace Corporation’s national space programs.

Posted 9/7/2026full-timeChantilly • 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 Astrodynamics and related Mathematics, with strong skills in Python, C++, and Fortran for software development. Capable of team coordination and mentorship while managing multiple projects effectively.

Highest-signal resume keywords

AstrodynamicsPython ProgrammingC++ ProgrammingFortran ProgrammingTeam Coordination

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

AstrodynamicsMathematicsSoftware DevelopmentHigh Performance Computing

Soft Skills

MentorshipTeam Collaboration

Certifications & Qualifications

U.S. Government-Issued Security ClearanceTop-Secret Clearance (TS) with SCI Access

Industry Keywords

Aerospace EngineeringPhysicsMathematics

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

C++PythonTypeScript

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Contribute to one or more Space Object Risk Department focus areas
Apply and develop analysis tools and techniques as necessary
Work routinely with department staff as part of project teams
Manage varying internship tasking, potentially across multiple simultaneous projects
Participate in provided training and mentorship

Requirements

What you’ll need

Currently enrolled full-time in an accredited college/university program pursuing a Master's or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Mathematics or related technical discipline
Availability 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 mathematics
Skills in the development and use of computer software tools
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government-issued security clearance
U.S. citizenship required to obtain a security clearance
Transcripts are required
Experience with Python, C++, Fortran, and/or High Performance Computing environments (standout qualification)
Direct experience in primary department areas of support (standout qualification)
Expertise in team coordination and/or mentorship (standout qualification)
Current and active Top-Secret Clearance (TS) with SCI access (standout qualification)

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