2027 Digital Signals & RF Engineering Grad Intern

Location: El Segundo, CA

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 Digital Signals & RF Engineering Grad Intern for the DCID in the Mission Payloads Division (MPD). This position will be full-time, 100% onsite at our office in El Segundo, CA.

At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country’s space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration.   With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions.  Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD!

Job Summary

DCID uses software-defined radios and FPGA technology to develop advanced communication and navigation system prototypes (GNSS, PNT, GPS, etc.) that solve the toughest problems related to digital communication systems. DCID’s support includes guiding the acquisition of next generation communication and navigation systems needed by our customers, helping industry implement cutting edge technology and creating innovative solutions to our customers’ most challenging problems.  Our group supports exciting programs such as the Aerospace CubeSat SlingShot Platform, development of the Payload Characterization and Environments (PACE) Lab, and compete in challenges such as the Blind Signal Classification Challenge. Please join us on the leading edge of digital communications.

What You’ll Be Doing

Learn how to develop and implement signal processing algorithms with applications to GPS / GNSS/Software Defined Radio receivers and/or communication transceivers and/or digital signal processing on FPGA hardware or in software.

Support teams in the analysis of signal processing performance using Python, or similar simulation environments.

Participate in efforts for prototyping cutting-edge real-time systems for emulation and proof of concept.

Assist in research pertaining to signal processing, GNSS technology/future development and Alternative PNT concepts.

Document work products in briefings and/or technical reports to customers and colleagues.

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 full-time in an accredited college/university program pursuing a master's or PhD degree in Electrical, Computer or related engineering discipline from an accredited college or university

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 with coding or programming using MATLAB, C/C++, Python, VHDL

Academic / project related experience with digital signal processing and Digital Communications concepts

Understanding of digital circuit design principles.

Familiarity working in DevOps environment.

This position requires the 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

Active security clearance

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 - $35.00

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 vary and are applicable based on Job Type.  A few highlights include:

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