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The Aerospace Corporation · 1 day ago

2026 Space Photovoltaics Graduate Intern

El Segundo, CA

Internship

Onsite

Intern

$30/hr - $30/hr

Start in 2026

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As a Space Photovoltaics Graduate Intern, you will work with world-class scientists and engineers to study and characterize photovoltaic devices for space applications, supporting R&D projects and integrating computer programming solutions.

AerospaceGovernmentInnovation ManagementMilitary

Work & Life Balance

No H1B

Security Clearance Required

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Support R&D projects aimed at reducing risks and accelerating technology transitions for next-generation space solar cell and array technologies

Assist in developing and executing experiments focused on photovoltaic device characterization and degradation analysis using cutting-edge tools and techniques

Integrate computer programming and database architecture solutions to solve experimental challenges

Effectively document research findings and present technical results to departmental colleagues, senior researchers, and other stakeholders

Collaborate with and receive training and mentorship from a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers to support your professional and technical development

Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed

Receive training and mentorship to support your professional and technical development

Qualification

Photovoltaic technologiesProgramming languagesData analysis toolsDevice physicsOpto-electronicsWritten communicationTeam collaborationProject managementInterpersonal skills

Required

Currently enrolled full-time in an accredited college/university program pursuing a Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or a related discipline

Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term and ability to return to a Ph.D. degree program full-time after completion of the internship

First year of graduate school completed by internship start date

A solid academic foundation in photovoltaic technologies, device physics, or opto-electronics, with relevant coursework or research experience

Proficiency in one or more programming languages (e.g., MATLAB, Python, C/C++) and familiarity with common data analysis tools

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

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

Preferred

Active security clearance

Hands-on experience with photovoltaic device and materials characterization techniques (e.g., quantum efficiency, IV measurements, luminescence spectroscopy, etc.)

Hands-on experience with semiconductor or photovoltaic device fabrication

Experience with modeling and simulation of photovoltaic devices (PC1D, SCAPS-1D, PECSIM, FDTD, Lumerical, Silvaco, etc.)

Demonstrated ability to develop and utilize data analysis tools in Python (e.g., Pandas, NumPy, Plotly)

Prior research experience or publications in space photovoltaics, renewable energy, or related fields

Proven track record of working as part of a complex, time-sensitive project team

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