Engineering Intern

At Microwave Power Products (MPP), we design and manufacture advanced RF and microwave technologies that power critical applications in defense, aerospace, medical, and industrial markets. Headquartered in Palo Alto, California, we're proud of our 70+ year history of innovation and precision engineering. In 2024, MPP joined the Trans Digm Group (NYSE: TDG), gaining access to world-class resources while maintaining our high-impact, close-knit culture.

INTERNSHIP SUMMARY

Over the course of 8-12 weeks, you'll support MPP's Klystron Engineering team by developing a reliable method to seal water-to-air leaks in klystrons. These water jacket systems are critical for cooling and safe operation; however, aging hardware and changing configurations can introduce leak paths that impact production throughput.

Your projects will focus on researching sealing methods, evaluating options, designing a prototype solution, and validating performance through controlled testing. You may also modify an existing design to incorporate a vacuum port or valve closure that maintains system integrity when the RF output line is disconnected.

Your work will directly improve manufacturability, reliability, and test readiness across the Klystron Business Unit.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES

* Project Execution

Projects A and B will be executed in parallel, with scope and depth adjusted based on progress, testing results, and production priorities.

Project A - Water-to-Air Leak Sealing Solution (Capstone Project)

* Investigate root causes and common locations of water-to-air leaks on production klystrons.

* Research sealing approaches, materials, adhesives, fittings, and mechanical design options used in high-vacuum and fluid-cooling applications.

* Develop concepts for improved sealing or retrofit solutions compatible with existing designs.

* Build prototypes or sample components based on selected concepts.

* Conduct testing to evaluate leak tightness, durability, manufacturability, and ease of use in a production environment.

* Deliver a final design recommendation with supporting data and an implementation proposal for Production Engineering.

Project B - Vacuum Port / Valve Closure Design for RF Output Disconnect

* Evaluate current RF output line disconnect scenarios and identify risks to system vacuum integrity.

* Define functional requirements for a vacuum port or valve closure mechanism that maintains vacuum when the RF output line is disconnected.

* Research applicable vacuum-rated valves, ports, seals, and actuation concepts used in similar high-vacuum systems.

* Develop conceptual designs or modifications to existing hardware that enable safe isolation of the vacuum system.

* Support prototype evaluation and basic validation testing to assess sealing performance, reliability, and integration with current test or manufacturing processes.

* Document design concepts, assumptions, and recommendations for potential future implementation.

* Engineering Collaboration & Technical Development

* Work with Klystron Design, Manufacturing, and Test Engineers to understand system constraints and key requirements.

* Support inspection of sample units, leak testing procedures, and data collection.

* Participate in engineering reviews and incorporate feedback into iterative improvements.

* Documentation & Integration Support

* Create engineering documentation including CAD models, drawings, test procedures, and test results.

* Maintain clear revision control for prototypes and configurations tested.

* Recommend materials, sealing processes, or assembly methods suitable for production adoption.

YOUR TAKEAWAYS

* Practical experience solving a real engineering problem affecting production quality and yield.

* Hands-on exposure to klystron systems, vacuum hardware, sealing techniques, and thermal/fluid interfaces.

* End-to-end experience in research, concept development, prototyping, and test validation.

* A tangible engineering deliverable that directly impacts product reliability and manufacturing efficiency.

* Direct mentorship and collaboration with a cross-functional team of engineers and technicians.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

* Current student or recent graduate in…