RF Hardware Intern (Winter 2027)

Centro Escolar University; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 41,000; Part time

Job summary

Centro Escolar University is seeking a student intern to design, simulate, implement, and measure RF sub-systems for spacecraft applications. The role involves hands-on hardware development, RF measurements, and collaboration with the engineering team to integrate systems at microwave frequencies.

The internship emphasizes practical experience with RF design, simulation tools (ADS, HFSS), and equipment like spectrum analyzers, signal generators, and network analyzers, with a 12-week duration and

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's Degree program in electrical engineering, physics, applied physics, or a related technical field.

Responsibilities

• Design, simulate, implement, and measure passive and active RF sub-systems at microwave frequencies.
• Integrate RF systems into the spacecraft by collaborating with the team.

Skills

Hardware development

RF concepts

RF design & testing

ADS/HFSS experience

RF measurements

Python (basic)

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering / physics

Tools

ADS

HFSS

Job description

Your Role

Here’s what you will be doing:

• Design, simulate, implement, and measure passive and active RF sub-systems at microwave frequencies, including LNAs, power amplifiers, up/down converters, filters, and oscillators.
• Integrate these RF systems into the spacecraft by collaborating closely with the rest of the team.

About You

The company is looking for candidates who meet the following requirements:

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's Degree program in electrical engineering, physics, applied physics, or a related technical field.
• Passion for hardware development, with the ability to work in a fast-paced environment and engage in hands-on design and development.
• Deep knowledge of basic RF concepts such as transmission lines, impedance matching, filter design, and active RF circuits.
• Hands-on experience designing, building, and testing RF hardware for microwave frequencies.
• Experience with RF simulation tools like ADS or HFSS.
• Experience taking RF measurements using spectrum analyzers, signal generators, network analyzers, and similar equipment.
• Applicants are encouraged to apply even if they do not meet all criteria.

Bonus qualifications include:

• Knowledge of antennas and electromagnetic propagation.
• Experience with Software Defined Radios (SDR).
• Experience with PCB design using Altium or similar schematic and layout tools.
• Experience with Python or other object-oriented programming languages.
• Experience automating RF measurements.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base pay of $29.00 per hour.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or have refugee/asylee status to comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations.

Internships typically last twelve weeks and are hourly roles designed for students currently enrolled at a four-year university. Graduates should apply for the Associate Engineer position instead.