2026 Systems, Performance, Estimation and Algorithms Graduate Intern

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

5d•$32 - $48•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 Systems Performance, Estimation, and Algorithms Engineer The Tracking Architecture Performance Department (TAPD) performs concept development, systems engineering, architecture analysis, algorithm development and evaluation support for national security space customers emphasizing Radar, Electro-Optical (EO) and Infrared (IR) sensors, missile warning/missile tracking (MW/MT) missions, Electronic Warfare (EW), space domain awareness (SDA), and space protection and security. The selected candidate will provide analytical support, algorithm development, systems engineering and architecting, and modeling and simulation analysis for space surveillance systems, space protection and space threat susceptibility, vulnerability analysis and resiliency assessment. What You Will Be Doing Algorithm assessment and development Modeling, simulation, and analysis and/or algorithm development for target tracking for space domain awareness (SDA) and missile warning/tracking (MW/MT) missions Apply standard techniques and procedures to carry out a series of prescribed scientific and/or engineering tasks. Training and mentorship will be provided. The selected candidate will work full time, on-site in El Segundo, CA or Colorado Springs, CO What Corporate Skills You’ll Bring 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

Requirements

Accepted or currently enrolled at an accredited college/university degree program pursuing a Master's or PhD degree in Physics, Applied Mathematics, or Engineering or related program
Completion of Bachelor's degree prior to internship
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 C, C++, Java, or Python
Experience with Microsoft Office applications (Word, PowerPoint and Excel)
Minimum GPA 3.0
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
Transcripts are required for this position

Nice To Haves

Experience in researching, developing and applying advanced and innovative techniques for algorithm development
Understanding of concepts pertaining to filters, sensors (such as radar, IR sensors), AI/ML algorithms
GPA 3.5 or higher
Active security clearance
Experience in developing and delivering presentations, leading small groups, etc.
Experience in working in an autonomous work environment on complex projects
Software design, development, unit testing and integration experience
Practice robust statistics and decision logics

Responsibilities

Algorithm assessment and development
Modeling, simulation, and analysis and/or algorithm development for target tracking for space domain awareness (SDA) and missile warning/tracking (MW/MT) missions
Apply standard techniques and procedures to carry out a series of prescribed scientific and/or engineering tasks.

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