2026 Aerospace Software Engineer Undergraduate Intern

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

8d•$30 - $30•Onsite

About The Position

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 Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) sits at the center of the ideas and data behind current and future systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, and test; and operational support. Comprised primarily of highly-trained mechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD provides national expertise in the areas of vehicle engineering; guidance, navigation, and controls; robotics; electro-mechanical devices; embedded systems; fluid mechanics; propulsion; thermal control; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments. We are hiring an Undergraduate Intern for an opportunity in the Vehicle Systems Software Department (VSSD) with a passion for space and software development to be part of our team. VSSD performs independent verification and validation of flight software embedded within avionics systems aboard launch vehicles, spacecraft, and other vehicle systems. Our multidisciplinary staff provides technical oversight throughout the flight software development process, from requirements definition to day-of-launch and on-orbit operations. We develop high-fidelity closed-loop hardware and software testbeds to test the software to assess its readiness for flight. In addition, we develop and test real-time embedded software for CubeSats, drones and other emerging technologies. The selected candidate will be required to work full-time on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA. What You’ll Be Doing Conduct tests and perform analyses of software systems embedded within launch vehicles, spacecraft, CubeSats, and other mission-critical components of space systems. Develop models of space system components for use in software-in-the-loop, hardware-in-the-loop, and emulator-based simulators. Participate in the development and maintenance of these simulations to support software validation, on-orbit anomaly resolution, and day-of-launch mission assurance activities. Develop tools and techniques for enhancing analysis and simulation capabilities. Apply creativity and critical thinking to solve problems, contribute innovative ideas to technical projects, and work independently to troubleshoot challenges and propose solutions. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed Training and mentorship will be provided.

Requirements

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
Interpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizations
Currently enrolled full-time at an accredited college/university degree program pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Computer Engineering/Science, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, or related discipline
Junior class standing completed by internship start date
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
Minimum GPA 3.0
Experience with Microsoft Office applications (Word, PowerPoint and Excel)
Some background and/or experience programming in one or more of the following languages: Java, C, C++, and Python
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.

Nice To Haves

GPA 3.5 or higher
Relevant course work or project experience in dynamics, control systems, control algorithm design, or modeling & simulation
Coursework or experience relevant to launch vehicles and/or spacecraft (spacecraft design, rocket design, rocket club, etc.)
Experience with software development processes and tools including compilers, IDEs, software engineering and coding standards.
Experience with machine learning and AI development
Familiarity with containerization platforms such as Docker
Experience with embedded microcontrollers or microprocessors
Basic understanding in developing and/or testing real-time embedded software.
Experience with the Atlassian tool suite, including JIRA, Bitbucket, and Confluence

Responsibilities

Conduct tests and perform analyses of software systems embedded within launch vehicles, spacecraft, CubeSats, and other mission-critical components of space systems.
Develop models of space system components for use in software-in-the-loop, hardware-in-the-loop, and emulator-based simulators.
Participate in the development and maintenance of these simulations to support software validation, on-orbit anomaly resolution, and day-of-launch mission assurance activities.
Develop tools and techniques for enhancing analysis and simulation capabilities.
Apply creativity and critical thinking to solve problems, contribute innovative ideas to technical projects, and work independently to troubleshoot challenges and propose solutions.

Benefits

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