2026 Optical Metamaterials Simulation and Nanofabrication Graduate Intern
About The Position
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. Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) supports the effective and timely development and operation of national security systems through scientific research and the application of advanced technologies. PSL has more than 150 specialized laboratories used to test, analyze, and troubleshoot virtually every aspect of rocket and satellite system design, development, construction, deployment, and operation. The expertise of the laboratories’ technical staff allows PSL to stay abreast of new technological developments and program support issues associated with rapidly evolving space systems. The Microelectronics Technology Department (MTD) at The Aerospace Corporation conducts basic and applied research in aerospace parts for space applications, and provides technical support to national security space programs. The MTD is seeking a Graduate Intern to support the design, fabrication, and testing of optical metamaterials for targeted aerospace applications. These may include thermal emitters, optical filters, and beam steering devices. S/he must also exhibit strong written and verbal communication skills and desire to work in an environment requiring independence as well as project leadership and teamwork. Highlights of our lab's capabilities can be seen here: Virtual Tour The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.
Requirements
- Strong written and oral communication skills
- Must work well in a team environment
- Possess organizational, time management and project management skills
- Demonstrate flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational need
- Interpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizations
- Currently enrolled full-time in an accredited college/university program pursuing a Master's or Ph.D. degree in electrical engineering, physics, material science or related discipline
- Undergraduate degree completed by internship start date
- 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
- Experience with various thin film deposition techniques
- Understanding of how metamaterials work
- Understanding of computational simulation techniques for metamaterials
- Proficient in Python, MATLAB, and/or C/C++
- 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
Nice To Haves
- Experience with simulation tools such as: finite-difference time-domain (e.g. Lumerical), COMSOL Multiphysics
- Experience with cleanroom nanofabrication, layout design, wet chemistry, thin film sputtering tools, and ebeam evaporation
- Experience with metrology tools such as: scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, ellipsometry, and building free space optical bench setups
- Strong interpersonal skills, ability to effectively convey technical information to non-technical personnel via oral and written forms
Responsibilities
- Use simulation tools to design an optical device with metamaterials to emit, filter, or steer light with a specific wavelength.
- Conduct photolithography with a maskless lithography aligner or electron beam lithography in a class 100 cleanroom.
- Deposit thin films with a plasma beam sputterer or an electron beam evaporate
- Optical and surface characterization with optical spectroscopy, electron microscopy, and surface profilometry
- Present results internally and at scientific meetings
- Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed
- Training and mentorship will be provided
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
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
