2026 Space Vehicle and Ground Systems Engineer - Undergraduate 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 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 Systems Engineering Division (SED) drives improved acquisition decisions, ensures systems are available when and where needed, and system capabilities integrate, and work as needed. The division leverages a broad array of engineering disciplines against a diverse and dynamic portfolio of programs, customers, and national challenges. SED spans the acquisition lifecycle from development to operations.

As part of the System Realization Subdivision (SRS), the Vehicle and Ground Implementation Department (VGID) provides development, assessment, and closure of vehicle and ground designs. As a member of this department, you will be supporting the acquisition of the next generation of innovative spacecraft and ground systems to solve the most challenging problems of our US Space Force, Intelligence Community, NASA, NOAA, and commercial/international customers.

The candidate selected will work full-time on-site in El Segundo, CA or Chantilly, VA.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Supporting space vehicle and ground design studies; types of studies can include both small, individual efforts as well as larger, multidisciplinary teams of subject matter experts

• Assisting with development, maintenance, and improvement of design tools and models used during spacecraft design and analysis activities

• Utilize and prototyping tools, hardware, and equipment in the RAPID Center for pathfinding and knowledge-building activities

• Collaborating with and learning from staff, program office personnel, as well as other members of Aerospace’s engineering group, including the large cohort of Aerospace interns

What You Need to be Successful

• Currently enrolled full-time in an accredited undergraduate program pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline

• Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term and ability to return to a Bachelor's degree program full-time after completion of the internship

• Junior class standing completed by internship start date

• Some knowledge of and/or relevant coursework in spacecraft subsystems, system engineering, aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science or other related topics

• A desire to work on both individual efforts, as well as in large multi-disciplinary engineering teams

• Strong interpersonal and communications skills and ability to excel in a collaborative environment; this also requires proficiency with office and collaboration tools, such as MS Office

• This position requires 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.

• Minimum GPA of 3.0 or better on 4.0 scale

• Transcripts required

How You Can Stand Out

• Active security clearance

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, adapt quickly to changing priorities, and balance projects with conflicting time demands

• Proficiency in modeling and simulation tools, and programming languages, including one or more of the following: MATLAB, Python, Simulink, STK, C++, VBA, SolidWorks, Cameo, or similar

• Strong, demonstrated personal initiative

Temporary housing assistance not available.

We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and reco