2025 Sensor Modeling and Simulation Graduate Intern

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.

The Aerospace Corporation is hiring a Graduate Sensor Modeling and Simulation Intern for an in person opportunity in Chantilly, Virginia

The Electronics and Sensors Division (ESD) is a world-class engineering and scientific leader in electronics and remote sensing systems.  The Sensor Modeling and Simulation Department (SMSD) resides within ESD.  Our team includes scientists and engineers across a broad range of disciplines actively engaged in developing the next generation of remote sensing systems of national importance.  SMSD supports all aspects of advanced remote sensing system development: designing and assessing the performance of optics and electro-optical focal plane arrays, modeling the end-to-end sensing system, simulating target scenes and atmospheres, developing innovative data processing and computer vision algorithms, and producing simulated data products for new applications.  Our expertise, combined with sophisticated in-house laboratories and prototyping capabilities, enables SMSD to deliver innovative solutions to national space systems and civil customers.

Work Model

This position will be located 100% onsite in Chantilly, VA.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Applying SMSD and COTS analysis tools and techniques for applications including image chain modeling, scene simulation, spectroscopy, computer vision, change detection and tracking, space domain awareness, lidar and 3D remote sensing, radio frequency remote sensing, product quality metrics, optics, calibration, and/or data simulation.

• Applying best practices for modeling & simulation software development to augment existing software capabilities.

• Advising internal Aerospace customers on operational and R&D remote sensing system performance.

• Performing, documenting, and presenting results of studies to inform and influence decisions.

• Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed.

• Training and mentorship will be provided.

What Corporate Skills You’ll Bring 

• Strong written and oral communication skills.

• Must work well both independently and in a collaborative team environment.

• Possess organizational, time management and project management skills.

• Demonstrate flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational need.

• Interpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizations.

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements: 

• Currently enrolled full-time in an accredited college/university program pursuing a Master's or Ph.D. degree in Remote Sensing, Imaging Science, Astronomy, Physics, Mathematics, Atmospheric Science, Computer Science, Optical or Electrical Engineering, or another related discipline.

• 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.

• Undergraduate degree completed and enrolled into graduate degree program by internship start date.

• Minimum GPA of 3.0.

• Strong scientific programming skills in at least one of: Python, C++, Matlab, IDL, etc.

• Strong analytical and creative problem-solving skills.

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

• Transcripts required.

How You Can Stand Out

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

• Bachelor’s GPA of 3.5 or higher.

• Proven experience in leadership and ability to mentor, teach, or coach others.

• Experience with any or all of the following, through coursework and/or prior internship(s).

  • Electro-optical system modeling, simulation, design, data processing, calibration, characterization, phenomenology, or applications.