Electro-Optical/Calibration Engineer Intern | Space Dynamics Laboratory

US citizens only

POC and to request an interview: Kory Jenkins - kory.jenkins@sdl.usu.edu

Job ID: 5133
Date Posted: September 30, 2025

The Space Dynamics Laboratory’s (SDL’s) internship program provides an exciting opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students to get involved with state-of-the art technologies in space-, airborne-, and ground-based systems. With the support of Engineers and mentors, Interns are able to work on professional-level assignments that complement their academic studies. The program also includes training workshops, networking opportunities, and a variety of summer events and activities. Interns will be paid a competitive monthly stipend and will be tasked with varying duties based on current projects, needed support, and development phase.

The Strategic and Military Space Division is looking for an exceptional student Calibration Engineer for a summer internship. This position will largely support optical system characterization efforts with an emphasis on instrument design, test, and operation for next generation payloads for satellite systems. Other potential duties may include: optical alignment, vacuum system maintenance and operation, space hardware thermal vacuum test support, data analysis, and report generation.

The Strategic & Military Space Division delivers advanced satellite and sensor systems that support the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community. Our division is a key component of national security, providing technological solutions and expert mission support. Become part of a team dedicated to making a tangible contribution to our nation’s defense capabilities.

This position has the potential of continued employment or transition to student/full-time employment requiring security clearance eligibility.

Requirements:

• Experience in radiometric analysis
• Experience with data processing with common software tools (Excel, Python, Matlab, etc.)
• Experience with optical design
• Experience with optical alignment, testing, or other related hands-on optical laboratory work
• Experience with photodetectors and/or microbolometers
• Ability to work independently with minimum supervision
• Ability to work closely in a team with students and professionals
• Ability to take initiative and ask questions
• Good communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential
• Must be a US citizen, lawful permanent resident of the US, or other US person

Let us know in your application materials if you possess the following qualifications:

• Experience collecting and processing optical laboratory data
• Experience with optical calibration sources (integrating spheres, blackbodies, etc.)
• Experience with high vacuum equipment and best practices

Education:

• Must be pursuing a degree in optical science, engineering, physics, or related laboratory field
• Junior, senior, or graduate student (preferred)
• 3.0 GPA minimum is required

If you’re unsure if you are qualified, we still want to hear from you! If you have a passion for problem-solving and learning, you could be a great fit for this internship
SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.

At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.

The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 7 days. However, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly.

For questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.