Talent.com
2026 Spacecraft and Ground Concept Design Graduate Intern

2026 Spacecraft and Ground Concept Design Graduate Intern

The Aerospace CorporationChantilly, VA, United States
job_description.job_card.variable_days_ago
serp_jobs.job_preview.job_type
  • serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
job_description.job_card.job_description

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.

Enterprise Effects Division Description

The Enterprise Effects Division (EED) drives integration of Aerospace's strategic capabilities across the national space enterprise. The division leverages a broad array of engineering disciplines against a diverse and dynamic portfolio of programs, customers, and national challenges. EED spans the capability lifecycle from concept and architecture design to performance assessment to application of space-enabled mission effects.

Vehicle Ground Concepts Department Description

The Vehicle and Ground Concepts Department (VGCD) in EED provides space vehicle and ground system preliminary / conceptual design; trade and architecture analysis, modeling, process development and leadership expertise; and tool development in support of conceptual design activities across the space enterprise. As a member of VGCD, you will be designing innovative space vehicle and ground segment solutions to meet the most pressing mission needs of our US Space Force, Intelligence Community, NASA, NOAA, and commercial / international customers.

What You'll Be Doing

As a graduate intern in the Vehicle and Ground Concepts Department (VGCD), you'll be :

  • Leading and supporting early-stage design studies for spacecraft / ground concepts; types of studies can include both small, individual efforts as well as larger, multidisciplinary teams of subject matter experts.
  • Leading and assisting with development, maintenance, and improvement of the tools and models that are used during spacecraft design and analysis activities.
  • Collaborating with and learning from VGCD staff, program office personnel, as well as other members of Aerospace's engineering group, including the large cohort of Aerospace interns.

The selected candidate will be required to work full time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA or Chantilly, VA

What You Need to be Successful

  • Currently enrolled full-time in an accredited graduate program pursuing a Master's Degree or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
  • Advanced knowledge of and / or relevant coursework in spacecraft subsystems, ground systems design, system engineering, aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science or other related topics.
  • 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.
  • A desire to work on both individual efforts, as well as in large multi-disciplinary engineering teams.
  • Strong leadership, 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
  • Must be able 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
  • Transcripts required.
  • How You Can Stand Out

  • 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.
  • GPA of 3.5 or higher
  • Active security clearance
  • Temporary housing assistance is not available.

    The Aerospace Corporation is a proud member of Space Workforce for Tomorrow (SWFT), a growing coalition of leading space companies committed to collaboratively working toward a shared vision of expanding and providing opportunities for talent to join the exciting space industry. As part of this commitment, SWFT companies are focused on building a skilled, innovative, and sustainable space workforce required to maintain U.S. leadership in space for decades to come. Click here to learn more and register for the National Space Intern program.

    We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

    (Min - Max)

    $32.00 - $48.00 Pay Basis : Hourly

    Leadership Competencies

    Our leadership philosophy is simple : every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who :

  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results
  • Ways We Reward Our Employees

    During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

    Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include :

    Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

    Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

    Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

    401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

    Flexible spending accounts

    Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

    Relocation assistance

    Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

    Education assistance programs

    An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

    We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

    Equal Opportunity Commitment

    The Aerospace Corporation is an equalopportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color,religion,geneticinformation, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by emailat peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org .You can also review Know Your Rights : Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.

    serp_jobs.job_alerts.create_a_job

    Spacecraft • Chantilly, VA, United States

    Job_description.internal_linking.related_jobs
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    Product Architect

    Product Architect

    Xenith SolutionsLeesburg, VA, US
    serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
    We are focused on serving Federal / Civilian, Defense and Intelligence organizations with superior service.If you want to be a part of a rapidly growing business with an exceptional culture, then y...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    2026 Internship - Missile Guidance, Navigation, & Control (GNC)

    2026 Internship - Missile Guidance, Navigation, & Control (GNC)

    The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics LaboratoryLaurel, MD, United States
    serp_jobs.job_card.temporary +1
    Are you interested in learning more about guidance, navigation, and controls (GNC)?.Are you interested in applying your engineering, physics, or math background to strategic deterrence and defense?...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_variable_days
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    Travel Interventional Radiology (IR) - $2,867 to $3,295 per week in Leesburg, VA

    Travel Interventional Radiology (IR) - $2,867 to $3,295 per week in Leesburg, VA

    AlliedTravelCareersLeesburg, VA, US
    serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
    AlliedTravelCareers is working with Fusion Medical Staffing to find a qualified Interventional Radiology in Leesburg, Virginia, 20176!. Facility in Leesburg, Virginia.Fusion Medical Staffing is seek...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_variable_days
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    Intern - Structural Engineering

    Intern - Structural Engineering

    IMEG CorporationWashington, DC, United States
    serp_jobs.job_card.permanent
    This posting is for Summer 2026 New Grad opportunities.Research and source project-related resources.Coordinate design and schedules with other disciplines and suppliers. Document design decisions, ...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_variable_days
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    Intern - Survey

    Intern - Survey

    IMEG CorporationManassas, VA, United States
    serp_jobs.job_card.permanent
    This posting is for Summer 2026 New Grad opportunities.Over 10-12 weeks, you'll work alongside experienced surveyors and engineers to perform boundary, topographic, and construction staking surveys...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_variable_days
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    Mid & Experienced Mechanical Design Engineer - Multiple Sectors

    Mid & Experienced Mechanical Design Engineer - Multiple Sectors

    Henderson EngineersNorthern Virginia, VA, United States
    serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
    At Henderson, we're about more than just buildings.We're about the people, experiences, and potential found inside.We're a company of problem-solvers and innovators known for our technical excellen...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_variable_days
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    2026 Spacecraft and Ground Concept Design Graduate Intern

    2026 Spacecraft and Ground Concept Design Graduate Intern

    The Aerospace CorporationChantilly, VA, United States
    serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
    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 resea...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_variable_days
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    2026 Modeling and Simulation Graduate Intern - Communications and Ground Architectures

    2026 Modeling and Simulation Graduate Intern - Communications and Ground Architectures

    The Aerospace CorporationChantilly, VA, United States
    serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
    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 resea...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_variable_days
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    2026 Space Systems Architect Graduate Intern

    2026 Space Systems Architect Graduate Intern

    The Aerospace CorporationChantilly, VA, United States
    serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
    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 resea...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_variable_days
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    2026 Emerging Missions Flight Dynamics Graduate Intern

    2026 Emerging Missions Flight Dynamics Graduate Intern

    The Aerospace CorporationChantilly, VA, United States
    serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
    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 resea...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_variable_days
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    Mechanical Engineering Intern | Fairfax, VA

    Mechanical Engineering Intern | Fairfax, VA

    IMEG CorporationWashington, DC, United States
    serp_jobs.job_card.permanent
    This posting is for Summer 2026 Internship opportunities.Research commercially available equipment.Coordinate design and schedules with other disciplines and suppliers. Document design decisions, me...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    Construction Intern

    Construction Intern

    TMG ConstructionFalls Church, VA, United States
    serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
    This position is for current students pursuing a B.Engineering, Construction Management, or a related degree; prior internship experience is helpful but not required. .Construction Interns at TMG wo...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_variable_days
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    Intern - Civil Engineering

    Intern - Civil Engineering

    IMEG CorporationManassas, VA, United States
    serp_jobs.job_card.permanent
    This posting is for Summer 2026 New Grad opportunities.Research commercially available equipment.Coordinate design and schedules with other disciplines and suppliers. Document design decisions, meet...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    Travel Interventional Radiology (IR) - $3,361 per week in Leesburg, VA

    Travel Interventional Radiology (IR) - $3,361 per week in Leesburg, VA

    AlliedTravelCareersLeesburg, VA, US
    serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
    AlliedTravelCareers is working with Medical Solutions to find a qualified Interventional Radiology in Leesburg, Virginia, 20176!. A facility in Leesburg, VA is seeking its next amazing IR Technologi...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_variable_days
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    Travel Interventional Radiology (IR) - $3,205 to $3,405 per week in Leesburg, VA

    Travel Interventional Radiology (IR) - $3,205 to $3,405 per week in Leesburg, VA

    AlliedTravelCareersLeesburg, VA, US
    serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
    AlliedTravelCareers is working with Ventura MedStaff to find a qualified Interventional Radiology in Leesburg, Virginia, 20176!. Are you ready to take your Travel career to the next level? See plac...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_variable_days
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    Construction Materials Internship (Level 1)

    Construction Materials Internship (Level 1)

    ECS Mid-Atlantic, LLCFrederick, MD, United States
    serp_jobs.job_card.internship
    As an intern working with our construction materials group, you will reinforce your education through a practical, hands-on, paid work experience. Your work will be realistic, rewarding, and allow y...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    Geotechnical Internship (Level 1)

    Geotechnical Internship (Level 1)

    ECS Mid-Atlantic, LLCFrederick, MD, United States
    serp_jobs.job_card.internship
    As an Intern working with our geotechnical group, you will reinforce your education through a practical, hands-on, paid work experience. Your work will be realistic and rewarding, and allow you to b...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    Child and Adolescent Therapist - Aldie

    Child and Adolescent Therapist - Aldie

    Columbia Mental Health, Columbia Mental HealthJefferson, MD, United States
    serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
    Transformations Care Network (TCN), as we embark on an exciting journey to empower.We are committed to improving access to mental health care in our communities which means we are committed to bein...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    Geotechnical Internship (Level 2)

    Geotechnical Internship (Level 2)

    ECS Mid-Atlantic, LLCFrederick, MD, United States
    serp_jobs.job_card.internship
    As an Intern working with our geotechnical group, you will reinforce your education through a practical, hands-on, paid work experience. Your work will be realistic and rewarding, and allow you to b...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_variable_days
    • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
    Lead & Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Multiple Sectors

    Lead & Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Multiple Sectors

    Henderson EngineersNorthern Virginia, VA, United States
    serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
    At Henderson, we're about more than just buildings.We're about the people, experiences, and potential found inside.We're a company of problem-solvers and innovators known for our technical excellen...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_variable_days