2027 Digital Communication Grad Intern

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Aerospace Corporation is hiring a Digital Communication Grad Intern for the Digital Communications Implementation Department (DCID) within the Mission Payloads Division (MPD). The position is full-time and 100% onsite at the company’s El Segundo, California office. DCID uses software-defined radios and FPGA technology to develop advanced communication and navigation system prototypes. The work addresses challenges in digital communication systems, including satellite communications, wideband links, command and telemetry, and terrestrial networks. The intern will develop and implement signal-processing algorithms for applications such as GPS/GNSS receivers, communication transceivers, and FPGA-based digital signal processing. The role also involves analyzing performance with simulation tools, prototyping real-time systems, and conducting research in signal processing, GPS technology, and reconfigurable communications. Projects may run concurrently and vary during the internship. Training and mentorship will be provided. The internship requires at least 10 weeks of full-time availability outside the university term, followed by a return to full-time study in a degree program. Security clearance eligibility is required; U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a clearance.

Requirements

Currently enrolled full-time in an advanced degree program at an accredited college or university in engineering, mathematics, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or a related discipline.
Available to work full-time for at least 10 weeks outside the university term and able to return to a degree program full-time after the internship.
Project-related experience with signal-processing concepts related to communication transceivers and/or hardware or software.
Experience using C/C++, Python, or MATLAB.
Proficiency working in Windows and/or Linux operating-system environments.
Ability to obtain a U.S. government security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a clearance.
Transcripts are required.

Nice To Haves

Direct experience with hardware description languages such as VHDL, Verilog, or System Verilog.
Experience in a laboratory environment with test equipment.
Coursework in Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and/or Communication Theory.
Ability to take direction, work independently, and seek help when appropriate.
Ability to document, present, and communicate technical work.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement advanced signal-processing algorithms for GPS/GNSS receivers, communication transceivers, and/or digital signal processing primarily on FPGA hardware.
Analyze signal-processing performance using MATLAB, Python, or similar simulation environments.
Prototype real-time systems for emulation and proof of concepts.
Conduct research related to advanced signal processing, GPS technology, and/or reconfigurable communication systems.
Work on projects that may vary during the internship and may occur simultaneously.

Benefits

Comprehensive health care and wellness plans.
Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation.
Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options.
401(k) plan with company-paid contributions based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested upon hire.
Flexible spending accounts.
Variable pay program for exceptional contributions.
Relocation assistance.
Professional growth and development programs.
Education assistance programs.
Inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.