2027 Enterprise Modeling and Simulation Graduate Intern

About the role

The Aerospace Corporation operates a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) broadly engaged across all aspects of space—delivering innovative solutions spanning satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil, and commercial customers. The Enterprise Effects Division (EED) drives integration of Aerospace’s strategic capabilities across the national space enterprise, leveraging a broad array of engineering disciplines against a diverse portfolio of programs and national challenges. The Cross-Mission Effectiveness Department (CMED) in the Integrated Performance Subdivision (IPS) leads integration and application of modeling and simulation capabilities and modern analysis workflows to support end-to-end effects chain analysis and space and space-enabled campaign modeling.

As an intern with CMED, you will directly contribute to technical capabilities that support customers in modeling, simulation, and analysis (MS&A) of space, air, and ground-based systems of systems to investigate architecture and concept of operations (CONOPS) performance in nominal and contested operating environments. MS&A focus areas include agent-based modeling, red vs blue simulations, military utility and capability drawdown, kill chain effectiveness, enterprise architecture resiliency, and command and control (C2) evaluation. Interns work as part of a team on multiple projects with project mentors, full-time staff, and other interns to apply existing skills and expand MS&A knowledge. Training and mentorship will be provided. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed.

Responsibilities

• Learn, use, and contribute to the development of engineering analysis software tools
• Assist with conducting technical deep dives, trade studies, and assessments on multi-disciplinary teams
• Develop and deliver technical presentations and reports

Requirements

• Currently enrolled or accepted to enroll in a full-time accredited college/university program pursuing a Master's or PhD degree in engineering (aerospace, astronautical, mechanical, or software), computer science, physics, operations research, or related discipline
• Bachelor's degree completed by internship start date
• Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term and ability to return to a Master's/PhD degree program full-time after completion of the internship
• History demonstrating personal accountability, a desire to learn, and ability to manage several simultaneous tasks
• Skill with a programming language including or similar to Python, C++, or MATLAB
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance (U.S. citizenship required)

Preferred qualifications

• Experience with a toolkit or framework including or similar to AFSIM, STK, or GMAT
• Direct experience with agent-based modeling, red vs blue simulations, military utility and capability drawdown, kill chain effectiveness, enterprise architecture resiliency, and command and control (C2)
• Knowledge of missile tracking/warning/defense architecture components and CONOPS
• Knowledge of tracking and estimation theory for space and ground applications
• Experience developing, implementing, and applying software scripts/models/algorithms
• Experience developing and presenting analysis results
• Current and active Top-Secret Clearance (TS) with SCI access

Skills

• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to work well in a team environment
• Organizational, time management, and project management skills
• Flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational needs
• Interpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizations

Pay

Grade-based hourly range: $32.00 – $38.00 per hour. Individual salaries determined by factors including education, experience, knowledge, and skills.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
• 401(k) Plan — company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; immediately eligible and vested upon hire
• Flexible spending accounts
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
• Relocation assistance
• Professional growth and development programs
• Education assistance programs
• Inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

Note: Temporary housing assistance is not available.

Schedule and location

Full-time, on-site at one of the following facilities: Colorado Springs, CO; El Segundo, CA; or Chantilly, VA. Minimum 10-week commitment during summer/university break.