2026 Thermal Design and Analysis Graduate Intern at The Aerospace Corporation

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; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments.The Thermal Control Department mission is to develop, apply, and communicate thermal engineering expertise for spacecraft, payloads, and related systems to inform and enable key customer decisions.The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.What You'll Be DoingApplying engineering principles and practice in the areas of thermal control systems for spacecraft/satellites and payloads:Assisting with analysis, modeling, simulation, and assessments relating to spacecraft thermal control systemsAssisting with experimental investigations including thermal design, thermal control systems integration, thermal environmental testing, thermal model correlation, data reduction and visualization, and engineering application of results.Interacting with experienced department staff to identify and resolve design, acceptance and performance issues relating to space vehicle thermal control subsystems.Acquire knowledge through supporting projects related to one or more of the following:Spacecraft thermal analysis using Ansys Thermal Desktop to predict on-orbit spacecraft temperaturesSpacecraft thermal control hardware (heat pipes, radiators, pumped fluid loops, phase change materials, heaters, temperature sensors, thermostats, thermal blankets, phase change materials)Integration of visible or infrared sensors with cryogenic cooling systemsAnalysis of heat transfer, thermodynamics, single- and multiphase flow, and energy systems.Interdisciplinary engineering analysis such as Structural-Thermal-Optical-Performance (STOP) analysis, thermo-structural / thermal distortion analysis, thermal analysis of RF microwave systems, power-thermal energy system optimization, and contamination analysis.Environmental testing practice and theoryDuties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as neededTraining and mentorship will be providedWhatCorporateSkillsYou'll BringStrong written and oral communication skillsMust work well in a team environmentPossess organizational, time management and project management skillsDemonstrate flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational needInterpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizationsWhat You Need to be SuccessfulMinimum Requirements:Currently enrolled in an accredited college/university program pursuing a Master's or Ph.D. in mechanical or aerospace engineering or closely related field with emphasis in heat transfer or thermal sciences.Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term and ability to return to a Master's or Ph.D. degree program full-time after completion of the internship.Undergraduate degree completed by internship start dateMinimum GPA 3.2Familiarity with one or more programming languages (examples: C, C++, JAVA, Fortran, python, MATLAB)Basic understanding of and interest in all modes of heat transfer, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanicsThis 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.TranscriptsHow You Can Stand OutIt would be impressive if you have one or more of these:GPA 3.7 or higherActive security clearanceResearch, laboratory, industry work, or internship experience in cryogenics, sensors, heat pipe technology, and spacecraft thermal modelingFamiliarity with Thermal Desktop and/or SINDA softwarePreference will be given to candidates who demonstrate long-term career objectives consistent with the Thermal Control Department mission.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 - $48.00Pay Basis: HourlyLeadership CompetenciesOur 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 StrategicallyLead ChangeEngage with ImpactFoster InnovationDeliver 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 plansPaid holidays, sick time, and vacationStandard and alternate work schedules, including telework options401(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 hireFlexible spending accountsVariable pay program for exceptional contributionsRelocation assistanceProfessional growth and development programs to help advance your careerEducation assistance programsAn inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respectWe are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.Equal Opportunity CommitmentThe Aerospace Corporation is an equalopportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color,religion,geneticinformation, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by emailat [email protected] .You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.