Rendezvous and Proximity Operations Grad Intern

The Aerospace Corporation

Graduate intern developing rendezvous and proximity operations modeling tools at The Aerospace Corporation. Analyzing orbital missions, system performance, and architecture alternatives for government space 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 and advanced mathematical topics, with proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, Python, and MATLAB. Capable of conducting analyses related to space mission design and collaborating effectively within technical teams.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Aerospace EngineeringC ProgrammingPython ProgrammingAstrodynamicsTop Secret/SCI Security Clearance

ATS Keywords

Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

C++ ProgrammingFortran ProgrammingMATLAB ProficiencyNumerical AnalysisOptimization TheoryGame TheoryStatistical EstimationModeling and SimulationTechnical WritingTechnical Presentation

Soft Skills

Team CollaborationIndependent Work

Tools & Technologies

Modeling SoftwareSimulation Tools

Certifications & Qualifications

Top Secret/SCI Security Clearance

Industry Keywords

Space Mission DesignOrbital ManeuversOrbit EstimationSpace Domain AwarenessSpace-Based Modeling

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

C++Python

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop and mature analysis software tools for modeling, simulation, and analysis related to space mission design, orbital maneuvers, orbit estimation, and space domain awareness for RPO objectives
Conduct analyses of system performance and architecture alternatives
Interact directly with local Aerospace personnel
Collaborate with Aerospace personnel in other locations

Requirements

What you’ll need

Pursuing a MS or PhD degree at an accredited college/university degree program in aerospace engineering, physics, applied mathematics, or another STEM-related discipline, or Senior class standing by internship start date and enrollment 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 degree program full-time after completion of the internship
Proficiency with one or more of: C, C++, Python, Fortran, MATLAB
Demonstrated ability to work well independently and in teams
Minimum GPA of 3.0
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance
US citizenship required to obtain a security clearance
Transcripts required
Research experience working as a member of a technical team
Coursework or relevant experience in technical writing and technical presentation
Coursework, research, or professional experience in astrodynamics/orbital mechanics topics
Coursework, research, or professional experience in space-based modeling, simulation, and analysis
Coursework, research, or professional experience in advanced mathematical topics such as optimization theory, game theory, statistical estimation, and numerical analysis
Coursework or relevant experience in modern software development, integration, and testing practices
Prior space-related work experience for a US government agency or contractor
Current DoD or SCI security clearance

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