2026 Optical Metamaterials Simulation and Nanofabrication Graduate Intern job opportunity at The Aerospace Corporation.



DateMore Than 30 Days Ago bot
The Aerospace Corporation 2026 Optical Metamaterials Simulation and Nanofabrication Graduate Intern
Experience: General
Pattern: full-time
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degreeAssociate
loacation El Segundo, CA, United States Of America
loacation El Segundo, CA....United States Of America

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. What You’ll Be Doing 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  What Corporate Skills You’ll Bring   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  What You Need to be Successful Minimum Requirements:   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 How You Can Stand Out It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:   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  Temporary housing assistance is not available. 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. (Min - Max) $32.00 - $38.00 Pay Basis: Hourly Leadership Competencies Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who: Operate Strategically Lead Change    Engage with Impact    Foster Innovation    Deliver Results   Ways We Reward Our Employees During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits. Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type.  A few highlights include: 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 We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation. Equal Opportunity Commitment The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you’re an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at  peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review  Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal .

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