Opto-Mechanical Engineering Intern

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Electro-Optics & Electronics (EOE) Division of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University, located in Freeport, PA, is seeking an advanced undergraduate or graduate-level Optical Engineering Intern to support High Energy Laser (HEL), Opto-Mechanical and Electro-Optical (EO) system development programs supporting military and intelligence community customers.

• Support research and laboratory experiments involving optical components, data collection, analysis, and modeling.
• Design, assemble, align, and exercise opto-mechanical components and systems.
• Provide Computer Aided Design (CAD) support for optical experimental test fixture design.
• Communicate and document results in reports and presentations.

Upper class (junior or senior) undergraduate and graduate-level students studying Electrical Engineering, Engineering Science, Optics, Physics, Materials Science or similar programs are encouraged to apply.

• Strong science and mathematics foundation.
• Hands‑on laboratory experience with optical components including lasers, lenses, mirrors, coatings, optical detectors, CCD cameras, as well as opto‑mechanical accessories including lens and mirror mounts.
• Background coursework and understanding of optics, including fundamentals of Fourier optics, optical materials, coatings and diffraction gratings.
• Familiarity with data acquisition hardware and software including LabVIEW and MATLAB.
• Ability to analyze alternatives and apply sound engineering techniques and procedures to assignments.
• Ability to clearly communicate, document, and present results.

The successful candidate will work up to 40 hours per week during the internship/co‑op.

This is a paid internship. The working location will be fully on-site at the EOE Division in Freeport, PA; relocation and housing are not provided.

Candidate selected will be subject to a government security investigation. Applicants must be U.S. citizens. Employment with the Applied Research Laboratory will require successful completion of a pre‑employment drug screen.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact .