Space Systems Engineer Internship

Description

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

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

Target salary range: Up to $40,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

REQNUMBER: 2618939

SAIC is a premier technology integrator, solving our nation's most complex modernization and systems engineering challenges across the defense, space, federal civilian, and intelligence markets. Our robust portfolio of offerings includes high-end solutions in systems engineering and integration; enterprise IT, including cloud services; cyber; software; advanced analytics and simulation; and training. We are a team of 23,000 strong driven by mission, united purpose, and inspired by opportunity. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $6.5 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For information on the benefits SAIC offers, see Working at SAIC. EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability