2027 Radio Frequency (RF) Spectrum Engineering Undergrad 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 an Radio Frequency (RF) Spectrum Engineering Intern for the Communication Architectures Department (CAD) within 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

Every satellite communication, every military data link, every command and telemetry signal depends on something invisible but fiercely contested: Radio Frequency (RF) spectrum. Within our MPD the Communication Architectures Department (CAD) sits at the intersection of cutting-edge RF engineering and high-stakes national policy. We don't just analyze spectrum — we shape the regulations and strategies that ensure our nation's most critical wireless systems have the spectrum access they need to operate, today and decades from now.

From satellites to launch vehicles, ground systems to cyber, CAD and its spectrum engineers are broadly engaged across every domain where space matters most to our nation's defense, civil, and commercial future.

What You’ll Be Doing

Perform radio frequency interference analysis of communication systems to promote spectrum sharing and resolve spectrum contention issues

Develop tools to provide analysis and evaluations of spectrum activities

Assess the performance of satellite and ground systems, communication links, and wireless network protocols

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

Tasking will vary during the internship and may include simultaneous projects

Training and mentorship will be provided in this position

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 Bachelors, degree in a STEM-related discipline

Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 12 weeks outside of university term. Ability to return to a degree program after completion of the internship.

Experience programming in Python, C/C++, or Matlab

Relevant coursework and/or project experience with communication theories and/or satellite communications

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 3.5 or higher

Interest in spectrum management, spectrum policy, and spectrum regulations

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)

$25.00 - $30.00

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

Education assistance programs

An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all wal