Optical Scientist Intern - Summer 2027 (Tucson, On-site)

Ultipro; Oro Valley (AZ); On-site; USD 34,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

NRCA is seeking a highly motivated Optical Scientist intern to work on optical design and metrology challenges in a fast-paced environment in Tucson, AZ. The internship runs for 10 weeks, with flexible scheduling and on-site work.

You will collaborate with senior scientists, contribute to prototype development, and present findings. Strong optics background and familiarity with design software are required, plus ITAR/export compliance awareness.

Qualifications

• Pursuing MS or PhD in Optics.
• Experience using optical design software (FRED, ASAP, LightTools, CODEV, Zemax, RSoft).
• Strong communication skills and ability to present results.

Responsibilities

• Work on projects addressing optical design challenges across areas such as optical design, metrology, and digital manufacturing.
• Complete individual tasks or assignments within projects.
• Design, fabricate or test mechanical parts or equipment.
• Prepare and deliver presentations on completed projects.
• Possibly develop new software for analysis as part of software engineering tasks.
• Perform other duties as required.

Skills

Geometrical optics

Physical optics

Communication skills

Education

Masters in Optical Sciences

PhD in Optical Sciences

Tools

FRED

ASAP

LightTools

CODEV

Zemax

RSoft

Job description

NRCA is seeking a highly motivated Optical Scientist intern to work on optical design and metrology challenges in a fast-paced environment in Tucson, AZ. The internship runs for 10 weeks, with flexible scheduling and on-site work.

You will collaborate with senior scientists, contribute to prototype development, and present findings. Strong optics background and familiarity with design software are required, plus ITAR/export compliance awareness.