2026 Sensor Performance and Data Processing Grad Intern - Chantilly, VA

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 s ...

Job description

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 Sensor Performance and Data Processing Engineering Grad Intern for the Radar Processing and Analysis Department (RPAD) in the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), a world-class engineering and scientific leader in electronics and remote sensing systems.  Position will be full-time and 100% on-site at our office in Chantilly, VA.

Job Summary

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 

The RPAD team is based in Chantilly and collaborates on multiple projects with the Radar and Signal Systems Department (RSSD), their ESD counterpart in El Segundo, CA..  They specialize in solving technical challenges covering Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) image formation processing, Space and Ground Radar system modeling (antenna modeling, transmit and receive chain modeling, etc.), Moving Target Indication (MTI), maritime surveillance, electronic warfare, signal processing, and algorithm development for advanced SAR image products. 

Intern will join this growing team of highly skilled technical specialists and become part of a culture of innovation, growth, technical excellence, and significant contributions to our nation's capabilities

What You'll Be Doing

• Applying simulation and analysis tools and techniques for SAR sensor performance, image chain modeling, and/or product quality metrics.

• Applying best practices for modeling & simulation software development to augment existing software capabilities.

• Creating and evolving image formation processors to improve product quality and investigate innovative applications of advanced remote sensing products. 

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum requirements include:

• Currently enrolled full-time at an accredited college/university degree program pursuing a MS or PhD degree in Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Geophysics, or another 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.

• Strong scientific programming skills in at least one of: Python, C++, Matlab, IDL, etc.

• Knowledge, coursework and/or prior internship working with RF or radar systems

• Strong analytical and creative problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

• 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:

• Experience with signal and/or image processing of remote sensing data.

• RF or radar system modeling, simulation, data processing, calibration, characterization, or applications.

• Computation of sensor performance figures of merit (e.g., SNR, IPR).

• Evaluation of sensor hardware performance.

• Experience with space-based systems.

Temporary housing assistance is not available.   

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
• A 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.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity 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, genetic information, 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 or by email at  . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.