2026 Optical Engineering Undergrad 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. The Aerospace Corporation is hiring an Optical Engineering Undergrad Intern for RF Optical Communications within the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), a world-class engineering and scientific leader in electronics and remote sensing systems. This position is 100% onsite at our office in El Segundo, CA. Job Summary At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country’s space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration. With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions. Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD! Work Model This position will be located 100% onsite 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 Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optical Sciences or related discipline
- Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term and ability to return to a degree program full-time after completion of the internship.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- 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 required
Nice To Haves
- GPA of 3.5 or higher
- Active security clearance
Responsibilities
- Conducting specialized satellite lasercom studies and reporting findings
- Development of analytical techniques, concepts, and/or design criteria for subsystems
- Participating in lasercom system validation and verification activities which may include modeling & simulation and testing
- Supporting laboratory measurements including testing of key laser communication assemblies and components such as track sensors, transmitters, receivers and associated equipment
- Automation of laboratory instrumentation using Labview, Matlab, or Python
- 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
