Applied OpticsPhysics Intern

Applied Optimization (AO) Job Description

Job Title:

Applied Optics/Physics Intern

Reports to:

Principal Scientist

FLSA Status:
Part-Time (Non-Exempt) Department:
Space Science

Applied Optimization is an engineering R&D firm working on day and night observations of the sky in the visible and infrared, along with archiving, reporting, and analyzing the collected data.

Provide direct hands‑on responsibility for theoretical prediction, numerical modeling, high quality data acquisition, reporting, analysis, and interpretation. Support

Meticulous, detail‑oriented individual who brings consistent quality and reliability to the collection and analysis of atmospheric and astronomy data.

Support theoretical development and mathematical modeling and simulation

Perform Fourier transform calculations for linear system

Support the analytical derivation of circular and vortex beams for optical propagation in atmospheric turbulence

Support optical engineering modifications of new generation telescope equipment.

Perform optical bench experiments to support customer requirements

Support the collection, reduction, and analysis of astronomy and atmospheric data using ground‑based telescope equipment

Ensure accuracy and follow documentation procedures for all work; maintain notebook of daily activities and provide weekly report of work

Other duties as assigned

Undergraduate or graduate student enrolled in a program related to the field of physics, astronomy, optics, or engineering physics with a superior academic record

Knowledge in beam propagation in atmospheric turbulent media

Knowledge of signal and image processing

Attention to detail and effective time and schedule management skills

Ability to execute instructions and communication in written, oral, and diagram form

Effective organizing, planning, debugging, and problem‑solving skills

Attention to detail and effective time and schedule management skills

Ability to adapt within a small team to support evolving customer requirements

Ability to travel to customer sites for technical support

Basic computer and software skills including but not necessarily limited to Microsoft Office products (e.g., Outlook, Word, Excel, and Power Point)

College sophomore or junior with cumulative GPA (Grade Point Average) of 3.5 or higher

Aptitude for software development using MATLAB, C++, or Python is highly desirable

Knowledge or experience in navigating astronomical coordinate systems of the night sky

Knowledge of Atmospheric physics

Knowledge of optics software such as ZEMAX.

U.S. Citizen or Green Card Holder

May be required to obtain and maintain U.S. Government Security Clearance

In‑office attendance is required; remote work is not available at this time

Hours:

The internship is a part‑time, year‑round position that requires a minimum of sixteen hours per week of work. The hours are flexible and they can change from one semester to another based on the student’s class schedule. The weekly hours can be adjusted to balance for the examinations, tests and project submissions.

Applied Optimization is a growing organization located in Fairborn, OH. We are an equal opportunity employer offering a competitive salary that is commensurate with qualifications and a comprehensive benefits package. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Find out more about us at

This job description is subject to change.