Aerospace/Orbital Dynamics Intern

About NRL

The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) Naval Center for Space Technology (NCST) has been a leader in spacecraft technology launching over 100 satellites from America’s 2nd satellite, Vanguard 1 in 1958, through other notable achievements such as the first Global Positioning (GPS) Technology Satellites. NCST is currently a leader in spacecraft servicing and robotics. TSC supports the NCST through multiple prime contracts, and has over 35 years’ experience working with the NCST on innovative research and development space programs.

NCST’s Mathematics & Orbit Dynamics Section is actively looking for aerospace engineering, mathematics, and/or physics majors with experience with analysis and design of elements of spacecraft conceptual missions, orbit determination, and orbital flight operations through the development and use of astrodynamics and a desire to learn more about orbital mechanics and advanced computational methods. NRL offers a “hands-on” intensive work environment, where student engineers work side by side with experienced aerospace engineers working on real-world problems.

What You Will Do

Modeling and simulation of astrodynamics in support of NRL customers, ranging from basic research to supporting satellites on-orbit. Interns will work alongside aerospace engineers and physicists to tackle unique and challenging questions in the space domain. Applicants should expect to combine knowledge of engineering, mathematics, and software development to produce presentations to share findings with both technical and potentially non-technical teams. The work ranges from orbital mechanics and astrodynamics to spacecraft guidance, navigation, and control.

Position Requirements

• Working towards a BS, MS, or PhD in aerospace engineering, mathematics, physics, statistics, computer science, or related field.
• All candidates must be US Citizens, (dual citizenship is not allowed) and be capable of obtaining a security clearance (no significant legal infractions). 
• A minimum GPA of 3.0 in STEM courses and/or in-major is required. 

Preferred Qualifications and Interests

• Ability to write code in MATLAB, Python, Java, or your preferred language for modeling and simulation work, as well as with lower level languages such as C, Java, and C++.
• Strong grasp of mathematics, physics, and astrodynamics.
• Experience with astrodynamics tools such as Satellite Tool Kit (STK) or General Mission Analysis Tool (GMAT), or related astrodynamics software libraries
• Ability to work well both independently and with a team
• Strong oral and written communication skills

TSC Benefits:

TSC offers a stable work environment, a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefit package; including ESOP participation, 401k Plan, Flexible Work Schedules, Tuition Reimbursement, Co-Sponsored Health Plan, Paid Leave and much more. 

Applying to TSC:

Only those candidates invited for an interview will be contacted. Employment at TSC is contingent upon the successful completion of a comprehensive background check, security investigation, and a drug screening.

This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60–1.4(a), 60–300.5(a) and 60–741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or for inquiring about, discussing, or disclosing information about compensation. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.