2026 Lidar Undergraduate Intern

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 tools

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 r