Space Systems Engineer Internship

SAIC - Intelligence Space Department

SAIC is looking for highly motivated and innovative student interns to join our Intelligence Space Department and contribute to cutting-edge research and development in space systems engineering. Interns will work within multidisciplinary teams to address complex technical challenges across various domains, including optical engineering, radio frequency (RF) engineering, and space modeling and simulation. Responsibilities will be tailored to align with each candidate's background, academic focus, and professional interests.

Key Responsibilities

As a Space Systems Engineering Intern, you may:

• Collaborate on advanced space systems projects focused on optical systems, RF communications, and modeling and simulation.
• Analyze and research state-of-the-art system designs such as telescope image processing, laser communication links, radar systems, and antenna designs.
• Develop and refine modeling and simulation tools to study issues such as orbital mechanics, RF behavior in space environments, space object tracking, and mission scenarios.
• Research and evaluate new technology concepts, including advanced sensors, optical payloads, radar algorithms, and spacecraft subsystems.
• Perform trade studies, algorithm development, quantitative analyses, and system performance evaluations.
• Test and validate complex system models within various simulation and operational scenarios for enhanced accuracy and performance predictions.
• Clearly communicate technical findings and solutions in the form of written reports, visualizations, briefings, and presentations.

Qualifications

• U.S. citizen with an interest in pursuing roles requiring eligibility for a security clearance.
• Actively pursuing a B.S. or M.S. degree in one of the following disciplines (depending on area of focus):
  • Optical Systems Focus: Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Astronomy, or a related field.
  • RF Systems Focus: Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
  • Modeling & Simulation Focus: Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related field.

Desired Skills and Experience

• Relevant experience (coursework, research, or projects) in one or more of the following areas, depending on focus:
  • Optical Engineering: Telescope imaging, laser communication, focal plane electronics, and optical sensor technologies.
  • RF Engineering: RF communication systems, radar engineering, synthetic aperture radar (SAR) processing, and antenna design.
  • Modeling & Simulation: Orbital mechanics, orbital propagation, sensor scheduling, access calculations, or space systems dynamics.
• Proficiency in programming tools such as Python, MATLAB, C/C++, Java, R, or SQL.
• Experience with technical software tools such as:
  • Optical Tools: MODTRAN, ENVI, ArcGIS, Zemax, or QTModeler.
  • RF/Modeling & Simulation Tools: STK, FreeFlyer, Orekit, or similar applications.
• Strong problem-solving abilities, quantitative analysis skills, and an ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong communication skills to effectively convey complex findings to technical and non-technical audiences.

What We Offer

• Real-world, hands-on experience working on advanced space systems projects that have high mission impact.
• Engaging and collaborative work environment at the forefront of space innovation.
• Opportunities to learn from industry experts and gain valuable technical, analytical, and professional experience.

This role offers a unique opportunity to gain firsthand experience across a range of cutting-edge technologies in the field of space systems engineering. If you have a passion for solving technical challenges and driving technological advancements, we encourage you to apply and be a part of SAIC’s mission to shape the future of space exploration and defense.

2026.10.1