The Aerospace Corporation · 8 hours ago
2026 Optical Metamaterials Simulation and Nanofabrication Graduate Intern
El Segundo, CA
Internship
Onsite
Intern
$32/hr - $38/hrThe Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. They are seeking a Graduate Intern to support the design, fabrication, and testing of optical metamaterials for aerospace applications, requiring strong communication skills and teamwork. The role involves using simulation tools and conducting photolithography in a cleanroom environment.
AerospaceGovernmentInnovation ManagementMilitary
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
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
Qualification
Required
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
Preferred
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
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
Company
The Aerospace Corporation
As the government’s preeminent space innovation partner, Aerospace brings technical expertise to advance the nation's missions in space.
Founded in 1960
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Tanya Pemberton
President & CEO
Ashley Kowalski
Project Leader - International Partnerships
Recent News
Washington Technology
2026-01-12
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