Optical Engineering Internship

Safran DSI; Bedford (NH); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

Safran DSI is seeking an Optical Engineering Intern in Bedford, NH. You will assist in designing, analyzing, and testing optical systems such as cameras, laser systems, and imaging modules.

You will work with experienced engineers, gain hands-on lab experience, and contribute to optical modeling and subsystem integration. The role targets students pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in optical engineering, physics, or related fields, with interest in photonics.

Qualifications

• Actively pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's in optical engineering or physics.
• Experience with optical labs, modeling, or imaging is preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with good communication.
• US Citizenship or Permanent Resident status required.

Responsibilities

• Assist with optical system modeling and simulation using engineering tools.
• Support range analysis and optical performance modeling for targets.
• Participate in optical architectural trade studies and analyses.
• Conduct hands-on testing of camera modules, laser range finders, and sensors.
• Help with laboratory measurements of camera performance and laser properties.
• Learn laboratory instrumentation and optical design tools like Zemax/FRED.
• Prepare test reports, analyses, and technical presentations.
• Assist in field testing activities and prototype assembly.

Skills

Optical system design

Imaging & photonics

Analytical problem-solving

Written & verbal communication

Team collaboration

Education

Pursuing B.S. in optical engineering or physics

Pursuing M.S. in optical engineering or related field

Tools

Zemax

FRED

MATLAB

Python

Job description

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Safran DSI Business Unit: Optronics ABOUT OUR MISSION:

Join the forefront of innovation and make an impact at Safran Defense & Space, Inc.!

Safran Defense & Space Inc. (Safran DSI), headquartered in Arlington, Va., is a leading U.S. aerospace company dedicated to supporting national defense and space missions. As a trusted partner to the U.S. armed forces, government agencies, and commercial sectors, Safran DSI delivers advanced technology solutions through its specialized business units: Assured PNT, Geospatial AI, Optronics, Space Solutions, and Testing & Telemetry.

Headquartered in Bedford, NH, Safran DSI Optronics (formerly Optics 1) is a global leader in full-service design and production of electro-optic and navigation systems. Leveraging core competencies in defense technologies, Optronics provides unmatched, first-class mission solutions for military and law enforcement personnel.

We have a high‑paced, high‑energy environment focused on acknowledging individual and team successes, as well as overall growth. Optronics is a community that cares about the mission of our customers. Our team believes in supporting and enriching our community through engagement; whether that means giving back to our troops, veterans and their families, investing in next generation innovators through STEM education, or higher education initiatives, giving back is an important part of who we are as a team.

POSITION PROFILE:

The Optical Engineering Intern will support the design, analysis, and testing of optical systems including cameras, laser systems, imaging modules, and sub‑components. Working directly with experienced optical engineers, interns gain practical experience in optical modeling, lab testing, and optical subsystem integration. This role is ideal for students interested in optical system design, photonics, laser technologies, and applied physics.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist with optical system modeling and simulation using engineering tools and custom math models.
• Support range analysis activities related to detection, recognition, and identification of targets using optical performance models.
• Participate in optical architectural trade studies and contribute to engineering presentations or analyses.
• Conduct hands‑on testing of optical components and prototype systems (camera modules, laser range finders, optical sensors).
• Assist in laboratory measurements of camera performance, laser properties, and sub‑component optical characteristics.
• Learn and operate optical instrumentation in a well‑equipped engineering lab.
• Support lens design tasks including requirement validation, optical element selection, and tolerance analysis.
• Gain exposure to industry‑standard optical design tools such as Zemax and FRED.
• Prepare engineering documentation such as test reports, analysis summaries, and technical presentations.
• Assist engineers during field testing activities when required.
• Demonstrate hands‑on experience including prototype assembly, lab setups, and engineering evaluations in collaboration with other disciplines.
• Other duties as assigned

WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO BE SUCCESSFUL:

• Actively working toward a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in optical engineering, physics, or related engineering field.
• Strong interest in optical system design, imaging, photonics, or related technologies.
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher recommended.
• Experience or coursework related to optical laboratory methods, photonics, lasers, or imaging preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced engineering environment.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• US Citizenship or Permanent Resident

IDEALLY, YOU’LL ALSO HAVE:

• Experience with optical modeling or simulation tools such as Zemax, FRED, MATLAB, or Python.
• Familiarity with optical modeling tools and basic programming skills is helpful.
• Familiarity with engineering lab equipment and optical test methodologies.
• Experience working in an ITAR environment

EEO STATEMENT & ACCESSIBILITY:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.

EOE/AA/M/F/Vets – US Protected Individual status required (US citizen, lawful permanent resident, asylee, refugee or temporary resident (as defined at 8 USC 1160(a).

Nearest Major Market: Manchester
Nearest Secondary Market: Nashua