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The Aerospace Corporation · 1 month ago

2026 Thermal Design and Analysis Graduate Intern

El Segundo, CA

Internship

Onsite

Intern

$32/hr - $48/hr

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. The role involves applying engineering principles to thermal control systems for spacecraft and payloads, assisting with analyses and experiments, and acquiring knowledge through various projects related to spacecraft thermal analysis.

AerospaceGovernmentInnovation ManagementMilitary

Work & Life Balance

No H1B

Security Clearance Required

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Applying 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 systems

Assisting 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 temperatures

Spacecraft 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 systems

Analysis 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 theory

Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed

Training and mentorship will be provided

Qualification

Thermal analysisHeat transferThermal control systemsProgramming languagesThermal modelingCommunication skillsTeamworkProject managementOrganizational skills

Required

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 date

Minimum GPA 3.2

Familiarity 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 mechanics

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

Preferred

GPA 3.7 or higher

Active security clearance

Research, laboratory, industry work, or internship experience in cryogenics, sensors, heat pipe technology, and spacecraft thermal modeling

Familiarity with Thermal Desktop® and/or SINDA software

Preference will be given to candidates who demonstrate long-term career objectives consistent with the Thermal Control Department mission

Benefits

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