2027 Radiation Effects Graduate Intern

Location: El Segundo, CA

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.

You will work in the Microelectronics Technology Department (MTD) which supports investigations of radiation effects, reliability- and radiation-hardness-by-design, and physics of failure of advanced CMOS, SiGe, SOI, III-V, II-VI, GaN and other advanced technology for space applications. MTD conducts basic and applied research in microelectronic and optoelectronic devices for space applications, providing technical support to national security space programs. As a graduate intern, you will assist with experiments and simulations of radiation effects on microelectronics technology for use in space systems.

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

Assists with radiation testing and characterization of microelectronic devices and simulations of related circuitry operations.

Assembles experimental electrical test setups.

Participates with an interdisciplinary team in ongoing research or technical programs.

Applies/update standard techniques and procedures to carry out a series of prescribed scientific and/or engineering tasks.

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 Masters or Ph.D. degree in Physics, Material Science, Electrical Engineering or related discipline

Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term and ability to return to a Master's or PhD degree program full-time after completion of the internship.

Undergraduate degree completed by internship start date

Coursework related to semiconductor physics

Experience with C++, JavaScript, MATLAB, Xilinx ISE, Assembly language, AutoCAD, Python or related experience with programming/simulation.

Familiarity or coursework related to semiconductor or microelectronics characterization: experience with oscilloscopes, function generators, and multimeters, IC chips, microcontrollers, and circuits.

Minimum GPA 3.0

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

Transcripts required

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these

Experience in developing and delivering presentations

Experience with radiation testing

Experience with modeling of radiation effects on semiconductors using tools such as MCNP, CREME96, or GEANT4

Experience with semiconductor TCAD modeling

Electrical testing knowledge and experience.

Experience working as part of a team on complex projects under tight schedules.

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 h