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 (PTD) is hiring an Atmospheric Lidar Undergraduate-level intern to perform research and development, and support program needs with a focus on emerging photonic technologies and platforms such as lidar sensors, fiber laser systems, integrated photonics, and linear/Geiger mode photodiodes. Developing relevant enabling technologies, several efforts are being pursued in imaging sensor design, testing and image processing.
The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.
What You’ll Be Doing
Design and execution of optical experiments including operation of optical sources, detectors, and data acquisition and control electronics
Characterization of sensor performance under various nominal and anomalous conditions
Development and verification of image processing algorithms to maximize the information content of corresponding data products
Technology fields include: atmospheric lidar, 3D remote sensing lidar and imaging for space-based systems, and atmospheric aerosol characterization.
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 Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Sciences, Optical Science, Physics or related discipline
Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term and ability to return to a Bachelor's degree program full-time after completion of the internship.
Junior class standing completed by internship start date
Minimum GPA of 3.0
Experience in a programming language (such as Python, C++, MATLAB) for system control, system testing, and data analysis
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:
Active security clearance
Experience with Atmospheric optics/physics, laser or lidar sensors.
Knowledge in one of these domains: atmospheric lidar, atmospheric characterization, remote sensing, laser, or closely related fields
Programming experience, particularly command and control of laboratory equipment and sensors
Experience with data visualization and analysis…