Space GNC Graduate Intern - Summer 2026

Overview :

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com .

Job Description Summary :

Draper Laboratory is seeking a highly-motivated Graduate-level summer student interested in the design of Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GN&C) algorithms and software for complex civilian or commercial space applications. The candidate will work in a team responsible for the development of simulation models and analysis tools to evaluate GN&C functionality and performance.

Specific activities will include simulation development, stability analysis, guidance and control law development, navigation accuracy assessments, robustness analysis, and support of GN&C software development and testing.

This task will also require the development and maintenance of high-fidelity, 6-Degree-of-Freedom (6-DOF) dynamic simulation models of the vehicle. The Graduate Intern will implement non-real-time simulations and perform simulation-based analysis to define GN&C system requirements and capabilities.

Job Description :

Duties / Responsibilities

• Job responsibilities will vary depending on the project assignment, which is tailored to the Student's skills and the Draper project lead.

Education

Additional Job Description :

Required Qualifications :

Preferred Qualifications :

Applicants selected for this position may be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.

Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.

Job Location - City :

Houston

Job Location - State :

Texas

Job Location - Postal Code :

77058-2900

The US base salary range for this full-time position is

$15.00 - $225.00

Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.

Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com / careers .

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact hr@draper.com .