2027 Photonics Technologies Undergraduate Intern
About The Position
The Photonics Technology Department is hiring an undergraduate intern to support research and development in radio frequency (RF) photonics, photonic integrated circuits, quantum photonics, and/or fabrication techniques. The department develops photonics capabilities for space systems and helps ensure that systems reliably deliver mission success in the space environment. The intern will work with an interdisciplinary team on laboratory and theoretical research involving advanced photonic technologies, including quantum and microwave photonics. The position is full-time and on-site at the company’s facility in El Segundo, California. Training and mentorship will be provided. Duties and responsibilities may change, or additional duties may be assigned as needed.
Requirements
- Currently enrolled full-time in an accredited college or university program pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, Quantum Science, Optics, or a related discipline.
- Available to work full-time for at least 10 weeks outside the university term and able to return to a bachelor’s degree program full-time after completing the internship.
- Sophomore class standing completed by the internship start date.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Some knowledge of scientific programming, such as Python, MATLAB, Mathematica, or a similar analytical language.
- Some related coursework covering basic electrical engineering and physics principles.
- Strong written and oral communication skills.
- Ability to work well in a team environment.
- Organizational, time management, and project management skills.
- Flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational needs.
- Interpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with internal and external organizations.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government-issued security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a clearance.
Nice To Haves
- GPA of 3.5 or higher.
- Active security clearance.
- Coursework in advanced electrical engineering principles and/or physics, such as RF communications, nanophotonics, photonic integrated circuits, nonlinear optics, or quantum-related subjects.
- Experience with specialty photonics simulation packages such as Lumerical, HFSS, or Comsol.
- Experience performing independent research and/or development projects.
- Ability to incorporate Claude Code into daily workflow.
Responsibilities
- Participate with an interdisciplinary team in laboratory and theoretical research focused on advanced photonic technologies, such as quantum and microwave photonics.
- Apply standard and novel techniques and procedures to scientific, engineering, and computational tasks related to quantum technologies and RF photonics, including laboratory characterization of devices and system simulations.
- Develop novel techniques for analyzing advanced photonic systems.
- Present results to management and colleagues.
- Interact with and learn from senior staff.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health care and wellness plans.
- Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation.
- Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options.
- 401(k) plan with company-paid contributions of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service, plus matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested upon hire.
- Flexible spending accounts.
- Variable pay program for exceptional contributions.
- Relocation assistance.
- Professional growth and development programs.
- Education assistance programs.
- Inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
