2026 Communication Architectures Modeling and Analysis Engineering Grad Intern

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

17h•$32 - $35•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 Aerospace Corporation is hiring a Communication Architectures Modeling and Analysis Engineering Graduate Intern for the Communication Architectures Department (CAD) within the Mission Payloads Division (MPD). Position will be full-time and 100% onsite at our office in El Segundo, CA. Job Summary At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country’s space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration. With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions. Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD! The Communication Architectures Department (CAD) has three main lines of work: the department performs trade studies, analyses, and simulations to optimize the overall communications performance of terrestrial, satellite, launch vehicle, and ground-based systems. CAD also guides the development of spectrum regulations and policies to assure critical wireless systems have access to necessary spectrum resources. Finally, we are actively engaged in the development of RF communications prototypes, especially those involving commercial LEO satellite systems.

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 in an accredited college/university program pursuing a Master's or PhD degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or another STEM-related discipline
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.
Experience programming in Python, C/C++, or Matlab.
Exposure to modern development practices, including the use of Git for version control.
Familiarity and/or coursework/project experience in communications theory, digital signal processing, electromagnetics, or satellite communications
Strong written and oral communication skills
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.
Transcripts required.

Nice To Haves

GPA 3.5 or higher.
Hands-on experience with RF measurement equipment (e.g., oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, signal generators) and proficiency in programmatically interfacing with these instruments is highly desirable.
Experience implementing AI/ML techniques—particularly as applied to diverse data types in communications or signal processing.
Project experience involving analysis of wireless communication systems.
Demonstrated use of Git for version control along with experience in writing tests, and managing code through CI/CD pipelines.
Demonstrated interest in space and communication systems.
Active security clearance.
Temporary housing assistance is not available.

Responsibilities

Perform analysis of communication systems to ensure architectures support mission objectives
Develop tools to provide analysis and evaluations of communication architectures
Assess the performance of satellite and ground systems, communication links, and wireless network protocols
Gain hands-on expertise by designing, constructing, and evaluating prototype RF systems that interface with and assess satellite communications performance.
Enjoy opportunities to showcase your work by briefing senior leadership and key customers on your project insights and achievements.
Document work products in briefings and/or technical reports to customers and colleagues
Tasking will vary during the internship and may include simultaneous projects
Training and mentorship will be provided in this position

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