2026 System Cost & Schedule Graduate Intern

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

3d•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. Job Summary 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 dynamic portfolio of programs and national challenges. Aerospace's Engineering Economic and Management Sciences (EEMS) Department is seeking a Systems Cost and Schedule graduate-level 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.

Requirements

Enrolled fulltime in an accredited Masters or PhD degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, Operations Research, or a related discipline of science and technology.
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.
Foundational knowledge of space and ground systems, systems engineering, cost estimation, or government acquisition process.
Proficiency in MS Excel (formulas, pivot tables, data analysis functions).
Proficiency in analyzing complex data, understanding variability, identifying trends, and conducting sensitivity analyses for cost and schedule projects.
Ability to present and communicate complex information clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.
Strong written and oral communication skills
Ability to work and communicate effectively in a fast-paced, rapidly changing, multidisciplinary environment.
Critical thinking skills to synthesize data from multiple sources and support sound decision-making.
Ability to collect and organize data from diverse sources (e.g., market research and vendor quotes).
Willingness to learn and apply cost and schedule estimation tools.

Nice To Haves

GPA of 3.5 or higher
Active security clearance
Familiarity with programming languages (Python or VB) for tool development
Knowledge of project management principles and their relationship to cost and schedule

Responsibilities

Analyze cost, schedule, and technical data to inform acquisition decisions and evaluate program credibility.
Support acquisition engineering through life cycle cost (LCC) analysis, trade studies, and contractor assessments.
Apply operations research and management science (ORMS) methods to optimize program planning and resource allocation.
Develop and assess Integrated Master Schedules (IMS), conducting Schedule Risk Assessments (SRAs), and identify key program risks and cost drivers.
Support applied research in cost modeling, schedule forecasting, and enterprise decision tools.
Collaborate with technical teams and mentors to refine methods and develop tools and data products that support government decision-makers.
Communicate analytical findings through clear, data-driven reports and presentations.

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
A work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect