2027 Modeling and Simulation Graduate Intern - Communication and Ground Architectures

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 engaged across all aspects of space—delivering innovative solutions for satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil, and commercial customers. The Enterprise Effects Division (EED) integrates strategic capabilities across the national space enterprise, and the Communication and Ground Architectures Performance Department (CGAPD) delivers modeling, simulation, and analysis (MS&A) solutions for critical space communication and ground systems.

About the role

This full‑time graduate internship requires 100% onsite work in El Segundo, CA or Chantilly, VA. The position is open to students currently enrolled full‑time in an MS or PhD program and who can work a minimum of 10 weeks full‑time outside of the university term, returning to their degree program afterward.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with Aerospace technical staff to provide analysis driving recommendations for research, development, and acquisition decisions for legacy and future customer communication and ground architectures.
• Collaborate and interact directly with Aerospace personnel both locally and across other corporate locations.
• Perform end‑to‑end (E2E) performance evaluations and analysis‑of‑alternatives (AoA) using in‑house or internally developed analysis tools.
• Support development and sustainment of the organization’s modeling and simulation tools and capabilities.
• Develop and present timely, technically accurate presentations and reports that clearly communicate analysis results to technical leads, management, and customers.

Minimum Requirements

• Graduate student (MS or PhD) in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, systems engineering, mathematics, or a related discipline from an accredited institution.
• Availability to work full‑time for at least 10 weeks outside of the academic term.
• Knowledge or coursework in modeling, simulation, or analysis in a relevant technical domain.
• Experience with one or more programming languages such as Python, C++, or MATLAB.
• U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain a government‑issued security clearance.
• Official transcripts required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Academic or internship experience as a member of a technical team.
• Experience in space‑related modeling, simulation, and analysis.
• Experience in communication, ground architecture, or data network modeling.
• Experience developing and presenting analysis results to government customers.
• Current TS or SCI security clearance.

Pay

Hourly rate: $32.00 – $48.00 (grade‑based pay range; individual salary determined by 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 with company contributions of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service; immediate eligibility and vesting.
• 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.

Leadership Competencies

• Operate Strategically
• Lead Change
• Engage with Impact
• Foster Innovation
• Deliver Results