2026 Photonics Technologies 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 Photonics Technology Department is hiring a graduate Intern to work in radio frequency (RF) photonics, quantum photonics, and/or signal processing. PTD focuses on areas of photonics directed towards research and development of new capabilities for space systems, as well as ensuring that new and existing systems reliably deliver mission success in the rigors of the space environment. 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 Physics, Applied Mathematics, Quantum Science, Optics, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline
- 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 of 3.0
- Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Proficiency in scientific programming (e.g. Python, MATLAB, Mathematica, or similar analytical language)
- Prior experience working in a research or prototyping lab or performing numerical simulations
- Completed coursework covering basic physics and mathematical methods
- 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.
Nice To Haves
- GPA of 3.5 or higher
- Active security clearance
- Completed coursework in advanced physics (including nonlinear optics and/or quantum-related subjects), mathematical methods, and/or data analytics
- Experience with specialty photonics simulation packages such as Lumerical, HFSS, Comsol
- Experience performing independent research and/or development projects
Responsibilities
- Participating with an interdisciplinary team in ongoing laboratory and theoretical research focused on advanced photonic technologies such as quantum and microwave photonics
- Applying standard and novel techniques and procedures to carry out scientific, engineering, and/or computational tasks related to quantum technologies, RF photonics, and signal processing, including laboratory characterization of devices and system simulations
- Developing novel techniques for analyzing advanced photonic systems
- Presenting results to management and colleagues
- Interacting with and learning from senior staff
- Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed
- Training and mentorship will be provided
Benefits
- We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business.
- The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below.
- Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.
- 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
