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.

Job Summary

The Enterprise Effects Division (EED) drives integration of Aerospace’s strategic capabilities across the national space enterprise. The division leverages a broad array of engineering disciplines against a dynamic portfolio of programs, customers, and national challenges. EED spans the capability lifecycle from concept and architecture design to performance assessment to application of space and space-enabled capabilities. 

The Space Object Risk Department (SORD) is the corporation focal point for assessing and mitigating risk associated with space object conjunctions during launch, on-orbit, and through disposal.  SORD supports real-time operations for launch and on-orbit collision avoidance and debris generating events.  In addition, SORD provides technical expertise in space traffic management, space object tracking and orbit determination, electrooptical interference, space environment projection, and discrete event modeling and simulation.

Work Model

This position will require onsite support for 100% on site in either Chantilly, VA, El Segundo, CA, or Colorado Springs, CO

What You’ll Be Doing

• Contribute to one or more of the focus areas of support listed above
• Apply and develop analysis tools and techniques as necessary
• Work routinely with department staff as part of the project team(s)
• Tasking will vary during the internship and may include multiple, simultaneous projects
• Training and mentorship will be provided

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:

• 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
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
• Transcripts are required for this position

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

• Experience with Python, C++, Fortran, and/or High Performance Computing environments
• Direct experience in primary department areas of support
• Expertise in team coordination and/or mentorship
• Current and active Top-Secret Clearance (TS) with SCI access
• 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)

$32.00 - $48.00

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 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.