Space Systems Architect – Graduate Intern

The Aerospace Corporation

. Perform architecture-level assessment, modeling, analysis, and conceptual design activities .

Posted 10/9/2026full-timeUnited StatesEntry Level💰 $32 - $48 per hourWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in architecture-level assessment, modeling, and analysis within aerospace systems engineering, utilizing model-based systems engineering and digital engineering methodologies. Proficient in collaborating across technical disciplines to address complex aerospace challenges and effectively communicate findings.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Architecture-Level AssessmentModel-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)Space Systems EngineeringMATLAB, Python, Java, or VBU.S. Government Top Secret Security Clearance

ATS Keywords

Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

Architecture ModelingSystems ArchitectingConceptual DesignAnalytical MethodsSpace Architecture DesignSysMLDoDAFUPDMMagicDrawCameo Systems Modeler

Soft Skills

CollaborationCommunicationProblem-SolvingTeam BuildingPlanning

Tools & Technologies

Cameo Enterprise ArchitectureSparx Systems Enterprise ArchitectIBM Rational RhapsodyVitech GENESYSOpenMBEE

Certifications & Qualifications

U.S. CitizenshipTop Secret Security Clearance

Industry Keywords

Space SystemsConcurrent EngineeringMission EngineeringEnterprise ArchitectingSystem of Systems Engineering

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

JavaPython

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Perform architecture-level assessment, modeling, analysis, and conceptual design activities
Participate in and lead architecture trade studies, architecture conceptualization studies, architecture modeling tasks, and program assessment analyses
Apply disciplined system architecting methods, processes, and tools for architecture-level trades
Participate in space system architecting, conceptual design, and analysis activities as part of a cross-disciplinary team
Develop and execute methods advancing model-based systems engineering and digital engineering across the architecture lifecycle
Use, develop, and integrate analytical methods and tools to evaluate architectural concepts and system conceptual designs for cost, schedule, performance, risk, resilience, and other characteristics
Collaborate with Aerospace personnel across technical disciplines and domains to address complex problems
Work with program office, customer, and contractor personnel to elicit needs, requirements, and constraints
Build cross-disciplinary teams; scope, plan, and execute studies
Communicate task status, methods, results, and recommendations through briefings and formal technical reports

Requirements

What you’ll need

Currently enrolled full-time in an accredited college/university program pursuing a master’s or PhD degree in Aerospace or systems engineering, physics, or related field
Bachelor’s degree in physics or engineering by the start of internship period
Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term and ability to return to a MS or PhD degree program full-time after completion of the internship
Minimum GPA 3.0
Relevant coursework and/or research projects in space systems engineering or systems architecting
Familiarity with MATLAB, Python, Java, or VB
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Top Secret security clearance
U.S. citizenship required to obtain a security clearance
Transcripts required
Coursework and/or research projects in enterprise systems engineering, enterprise architecting, system of systems engineering, or mission engineering
Familiarity with MBSE or DE methods, processes, and ecosystems
Coursework and/or research experience in architecture or system modeling, including SysML, DoDAF, UPDM, UAF Profile, or BPMN
Working knowledge of MagicDraw, Cameo Systems Modeler, Cameo Enterprise Architecture, Sparx Systems Enterprise Architect, IBM Rational Rhapsody, Vitech GENESYS, or OpenMBEE
Familiarity with spacecraft, payloads, ground systems, launch systems, missile systems, or airborne systems
Knowledge of space architecture conceptual design, analysis, and concurrent engineering techniques
Experience with spacecraft systems engineering or spacecraft operations
A current Secret, Top Secret, and/or SCI clearance

Benefits

Comp & perks

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