2027 Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) Graduate Intern

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 Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) sits at the center of the ideas and data behind current and future systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, and test; and operational support. Comprised primarily of highly-trained mechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD provides national expertise in the areas of vehicle engineering; guidance, navigation, and controls; robotics; electro-mechanical devices; embedded systems; fluid mechanics; propulsion; thermal control; orbital mechanics; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments. The Guidance Analysis Department is seeking a Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) Intern to provide GNC support for launch vehicle, missile systems, and missile defense systems for a wide range of customers including the Space Force’s Space Systems Command (SSC), the Missile Defense Agency, and other civil customers (e.g. NASA). The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA. What You’ll Be Doing Develop mathematical models and high-fidelity computational simulations of launch vehicles from fundamental principles of dynamics and physics Develop computational tools to analyze the performance of launch vehicle flight control systems, guidance, and/or navigation (state estimation) algorithms Develop and support software tools to perform time and frequency domain controls analysis Perform analyses of launch and upper-stage vehicle guidance and navigation systems, including the performance of guidance algorithms and use of inertial systems, GPS, and other sensors Perform trajectory studies and conduct error and orbital perturbation analyses Perform statistical analyses of launch vehicle trajectories, maneuvers, and targeting accuracy Support multiple programs and work both independently and with interdisciplinary teams Verify contractor designs, approaches, and overall launch vehicle GN&C performance Study and evaluate current and future launch vehicle GNC system designs and algorithms Prepare technical reports and briefings to be presented to other analysts and management Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed  Training and mentorship will be provided  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  What You Need to be Successful Minimum Requirements: Currently enrolled fulltime in an accredited college/university program pursuing a Master's/PhD 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 Master's/Phd degree program full-time after completion of the internship. Bachelor's degree completed by internship start date  Minimum GPA of 3.0 Some knowledge of one or more of the following: control systems, kinematics/dynamics, flight dynamics, orbital mechanics, or guidance and navigation of aerospace vehicles Some experience with modeling and simulations for (linear or nonlinear) dynamic systems Some knowledge of statistical methods and analysis Proficiency with one or more of the following tools: Python, MATLAB, C++, Fortran 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 How You Can Stand Out It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: GPA of 3.5 or higher Intermediate to advanced skills in some of the following: Unix/Linux, C++, Python, Matlab/Simulink, Fortran Experience in Guidance, Navigation, Control Systems, Computer Engineering, or a related field Some experience with electronics, mechanical design, control systems, sensors, and actuators Experience in modeling and simulation of complex (dynamical) systems Demonstrated ability to provide innovative solutions to challenging technical problems Temporary housing assistance is not available.  We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business.  The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below.  Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills. (Min - Max) $32.00 - $38.00 Pay Basis: Hourly Leadership Competencies Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who: Operate Strategically Lead Change    Engage with Impact    Foster Innovation    Deliver Results   Ways We Reward Our Employees During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits. Benefits var