2026 Vehicle Systems Undergraduate Intern

The Aerospace Corporation•Huntsville, AL

2d•$25 - $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 Aerospace Corporation is hiring an Undergraduate Vehicle Systems Intern for a full-time onsite opportunity in Huntsville, AL. The Southeast Regional Vehicle Systems Office (SERVO) is in Huntsville, AL and represents the Engineering and Technology Group (ETG) in support of programs in the Southeastern United States. SERVO provides a small but broad range of technical experts to government programs including the Missile Defense Agency, Space Force, NASA Marshall Space Flight, Space Based Interceptor, and Space Development Agency, as well as government representatives at United Launch Alliance and Blue Origin production and launch facilities. Missile defense is layered missile system that safeguards the United States, its deployed forces, and allies from missile threats throughout all phases of flight. During this Undergraduate Summer Intern opportunity, you will work on multi-objective “traveling salesman” trajectory sequence generation, facility location optimization, and trans-atmospheric modeling for missiles, hyperglide vehicles, and reentry vehicles. This hands-on role will directly impact the development and deployment of layered missile defense systems protecting the US and its allies. What You'll Be Doing: Evaluate and assist in the development of new propulsion systems and component technologies Apply evolutionary computing and multi-criterion decision making techniques to trade space analysis Develop new and existing tools and analyses to assess the performance of propulsion systems. Collaborate with Subject Matter Experts and work with cross disciplinary teams to analyze complex systems and develop real-world solutions Training and mentorship will be provided

Requirements

Currently enrolled fulltime in an accredited college/university program pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline
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.
Freshman year completed by start of internship
Minimum GPA of 3.0
Familiar with one or more of the following programming languages: Python, C/C++, or MATLAB
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government.
U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

Nice To Haves

GPA of 3.5 or higher
Background in one or more of the following categories: orbital mechanics, hypersonic flight simulation, optimal control, flight mechanics, trajectory modeling and simulation
Active security clearance
Interest in pursuing graduate studies following the completion of bachelor’s degree

Responsibilities

Evaluate and assist in the development of new propulsion systems and component technologies
Apply evolutionary computing and multi-criterion decision making techniques to trade space analysis
Develop new and existing tools and analyses to assess the performance of propulsion systems.
Collaborate with Subject Matter Experts and work with cross disciplinary teams to analyze complex systems and develop real-world 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