Applied OpticsPhysics Intern

Applied Optimization; Fairborn (OH); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits package

Flexible hours based on class schedule

Job summary

A growing engineering R&D firm in Fairborn, OH, is seeking a part-time Applied Optics/Physics Intern to support theoretical development and data analysis in astronomical observations. The ideal candidate is an undergraduate or graduate student with strong knowledge in optics, engineering, or physics, who is meticulous, detail-oriented, and possesses effective problem-solving skills. The role offers flexible hours and is strictly in-office with no remote options available. A GPA of 3.5 or higher and skills in MATLAB, C++, or Python are preferred.

Qualifications

• Knowledge in beam propagation in atmospheric turbulent media.
• Knowledge of signal and image processing.
• Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office.
• Strong attention to detail and time management.
• Ability to communicate in writing, orally, and via diagrams.
• Strong organizational, planning, debugging, and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to adapt in a small team and support evolving customer requirements.
• Willingness to travel to customer sites for technical support.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Responsibilities

• Support theoretical development and mathematical modeling.
• Perform Fourier transform calculations.
• Support optical engineering modifications of telescope equipment.
• Collect and analyze astronomy data using ground-based equipment.
• Conduct optical bench experiments to support customer requirements.
• Analyze astronomy and atmospheric data from ground-based telescope equipment.
• Maintain daily notebook and provide weekly progress reports.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Attention to detail

Effective time and schedule management

Communication skills

Organizing and planning skills

Problem-solving skills

Adaptability in small team

Travel to customer sites

MS Office

MATLAB

Python

C++

ZEMAX

Education

Undergraduate or graduate student in physics, astronomy, optics, or engineering physics

Cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Office Products

MATLAB

C++

Python

ZEMAX

Job description

Applied Optimization (AO) Job Description

Job Title: Applied Optics/Physics Intern Reports to: Principal Scientist

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

Position Objective

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.

Essential Functions

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

Required Qualifications

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)

Preferred Qualifications

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.

Citizenship/Security Clearance Requirements

U.S. Citizen or Green Card Holder

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

Employment Structure

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

About Our Internships

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.

About Us

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 www.appliedo.com.

This job description is subject to change.