2027 Digital Communication Grad 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 Aerospace Corporation is hiring a Digital Communication Grad Intern for the Digital Communications Implementation Department (DCID) 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

DCID uses software-defined radios and FPGA technology to develop advanced communication and navigation system prototypes that solve our customer’s most challenging problems related to digital communication systems.

Main-mission communication satellites, wideband links, command and telemetry, and terrestrial networks, along with their enabling technologies, are the domain of the Communication Technologies and Engineering Division. The division comprises all aspects, from architectures to implementation; our engineers work directly with corporate customers to ensure robust and resilient communication systems.

What You’ll Be Doing

- Develop and implement advanced signal processing algorithms with applications to GPS/GNSS receivers, communication transceivers and/or digital signal processing primarily on FPGA hardware.
- Analysis of signal processing performance using MATLAB, Python, or similar simulation environments.
- Prototype cutting-edge real-time systems for emulation and proof of concepts.
- Research pertaining to advanced signal processing, GPS technology and/or re-configurable communication systems.
- Tasking will vary during the internship and may include simultaneous projects.
- Training and mentorship will be provided in this position.

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:

- Currently enrolled as a full-time student in an advanced degree in an accredited college/university program in Engineering, Mathematics, Computer engineering, electrical engineering or other related discipline.
- 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.
- Project related experience with signal processing concepts related to communication transceivers and/or hardware or software
- Experience using C/C++, Python or Matlab
- Proficiency working in Windows and/or Linux OS environments

- This position requires the ability to obtain a security clearance which is issued by the U.S. 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:

- Direct experience with hardware description languages such as VHDL, Verilog, System Verilog
- Experience in a lab environment with test equipment.
- Course work in Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and/or Communication Theory
- Ability to take direction, work independently, and seek help when appropriate.
- Ability to document, present, and communicate technical work.

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:

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Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

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Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

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Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

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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

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Flexible spending accounts

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Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

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Relocation assistance

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Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

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Education assistance programs

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

We 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.