2026 Systems Cost and Schedule 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 Systems Engineering Division (SED) provides unmatched experience in systems engineering to the U.S. government and to numerous public and private agencies, universities, nonprofit organizations, consortia, and commercial companies involved in the advanced application of space technology. From systems architecture development to system analysis and optimization, astrodynamics, orbital debris, navigation, failure analysis, mission assurance, and cost and schedule assessments, SED exploits an incredibly broad array of engineering and business disciplines against a diverse and dynamic portfolio of programs and national challenges.

Aerospace’s Engineering Economic and Management Sciences (EEMS) Department is seeking a Systems Cost and Schedule Intern to join an innovative, and highly productive team of cost, schedule, and operations research professionals. This growing, geographically distributed department supports a wide range of customers across the National Security, Civil and Commercial, and International Space Communities. EEMS leverages expertise in cost, schedule, and economic engineering, along with operations research and management science techniques, to enhance cost- and schedule-related decision-making processes. The department also conducts integrated studies, technical deep dives, and comprehensive reviews that provide actionable insights and uncover risks and opportunities. These efforts enable decision-makers to balance trade-offs, optimize resource allocation, and develop robust solutions tailored to mission-critical challenges. By synthesizing lessons learned from a variety of programs, EEMS continually refines engineering management practices in cost, schedule, and risk analysis to deliver impactful and enduring results.

This position will be full-time and located onsite in El Segundo, CA.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Participate in trade and concurrent engineering studies (e.g., participation in an Aerospace Concept Design Center Study as part of a large cross-disciplinary team)

• Develop cost estimates for advanced space systems using in-house estimating methodologies and parametric models

• Utilize industry tools to develop and/or evaluate Integrated Master Schedules (IMS), conduct Schedule Risk Assessments (SRAs), structural integrity analyses, and identify/quantify program risks

• Analyze technical and programmatic data to assess credibility of government and industry cost and schedule estimates.

• Participate in research activities; update historical databases and assist senior staff in the derivation of cost and schedule metrics/heuristics

• Document analysis and present technical, cost, and programmatic data/findings to peers, management, and customers

What Corporate Skills You’ll Bring

• Strong written and oral communication skills

• Must work well in a team environment

• Possess organizational, time management and project management skills

• Demonstrate flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational need

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks and collaborate effectively with staff.

• Ability to collect and organize data from various sources (e.g. vendor quotes and market research)

• Clearly articulate findings in written reports and ability to communicate with mentors, staff, and management on cost and schedule analyses
   

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:

• Currently enrolled fulltime in an accredited college/university program pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Aerospace or Systems Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, Operations Research, or a related discipline of science and technology

• Junior class standing completed at internship start date

• Minimum GPA 3.0

• 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.

• Proficiency in using MS Excel (formulas, piv