About the role#
As an Optical Payload Engineer intern, you will support the integration of electro-optical (EO) payloads onto spacecraft platforms. You will work through the full project lifecycle, from initial concept development to on-orbit execution. This role involves collaborating with mechanical, thermal, electrical, and software teams to manage technical risks and ensure payload maturity.
What you'll do#
- Perform concept designs for active and passive EO payloads and derive system-level requirements.
- Analyze performance using your understanding of payload technology and physics.
- Create and execute test plans to measure key performance parameters in a laboratory setting.
- Conduct hands-on characterization and calibration of flight hardware using equipment like collimators, integrating spheres, theodolites, laser trackers, and interferometers.
- Author Interface Control Documents (ICD) covering electrical, data, algorithmic, mechanical, thermal, and optical interfaces.
- Develop payload data calibration algorithms and work with software teams to integrate them into processing pipelines.
- Define on-orbit calibration sequences and provide real-time engineering support during operations.
- Assist with assembly and integration campaigns for space flight hardware.
- Communicate technical progress and risks to customers during design reviews.
What you'll need#
- Current pursuit of a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Systems Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- Must be returning to school for at least one quarter or semester following the internship.
- Ability to complete a 12-week, on-site internship in summer 2027.
- Must be a U.S. Person due to export-controlled information; U.S. clearance eligibility may be required.
- Experience with assembly, integration, and testing of space flight hardware.
- Proficiency in optical test equipment and methodologies.
- Familiarity with laboratory measurements such as radiometry, distortion mapping, boresight alignments, and modulation transfer function.
- Experience with Python, MATLAB, or ImageJ.
- Exposure to optical modeling tools like Zemax or Code V.
- Experience with RF payload design and testing is a plus.
Location & details#
- Location: Costa Mesa, California.
- Term: Summer 2027 (12 weeks).
- Modality: On-site.
- Compensation: $40, $55 per hour.
About Anduril Industries
Anduril Industries operates in the defense and space manufacturing sector. The company develops technology for national security, defense, and artificial intelligence applications. It maintains a presence in multiple locations including Orange County, Washington DC, Seattle, Boston, Atlanta, London, and Sydney. The organization employs over 8,000 people.
How to get in at Anduril Industries
Applying early to Anduril Industries provides a distinct advantage because recruiters review applications before the volume becomes unmanageable. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, helping you apply among the first. This timing often ensures your profile is seen before the pile grows. You can also improve your response rates by reaching out to the recruiters behind these roles directly. Intern Insider surfaces the specific people managing the company's hiring, which allows you to ask targeted questions about the position or a referral. This direct approach is more effective than relying on a standard portal submission.
