Optical Systems Engineering Intern

Job Description

About the Job: Optical Systems Engineering Intern (Summer 2026)

Company: Millennium Space Systems, a part of Boeing Defense, Space and Security (BDS)

Millennium Space Systems is a fast, agile small satellite company dedicated to national security space. We develop missions with a direct impact on global security, including missile warning and Earth observation. Our team thrives on curiosity, boldness, and innovation, taking risks to explore new techniques and technologies. We challenge the status quo, influencing change, and collectively contribute to the successful launch of our satellites.

Role Summary

As an Optical Systems Engineering Intern, you will play a crucial role in supporting various optical systems projects for our space mission programs and internal research and development (IRAD) efforts. The Optics team consists of systems engineers who manage the complex interfaces between space vehicles and Electro-Optical (EO)/Infrared (IR) payloads, as well as active sensing payloads. You will collaborate closely with mission and systems engineering teams, manufacturing, and testing teams to lead payload systems efforts from conception to completion.

Internship Experience & Key Responsibilities

Over the course of our 10-12 week internship experience (Summer 2026), you will have the opportunity to:

• Design, execute, and report results on Optical Lab Tests, including EO/IR sensor tests and active sensor tests.
• Support EO/IR Radiometric Modeling efforts.
• Aid in the selection of Optical sensors to meet stringent space mission requirements.
• Assist with Optical Systems Requirements development and verification efforts.

Work Environment & Compliance

• This position is expected to be 100% onsite. The selected candidate will be required to work onsite at one of the listed location options.
• U.S. Export Control Compliance: This position requires meeting U.S. export control compliance requirements. To do so, a “U.S. Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. §120.62 is required. A “U.S. Person” includes a U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.
• Security Clearance: Applicants MUST be U.S. citizens and eligible for a security clearance. Additionally, applicants must be willing to apply for and maintain a security clearance.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skill/Experience)

• Ability to work full-time for 10-12 weeks during Summer 2026.
• Enrollment in a Bachelor’s or higher degree program in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related engineering/science field.
• Expected graduation date on or after August 2026.

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience)

• Strong academic performance (preferred GPA of 3.0 or above).
• Exceptional organizational and collaboration skills, as demonstrated through leadership positions on teams and/or in student or civic organizations.
• Strong technical experiences, as demonstrated through technical projects, research, or engineering internships.
• Exceptional communication skills and a genuine interest and enthusiasm related to engineering, aerospace, and a career with Boeing.
• Junior or Senior class standing.

Important Notes & Logistics

• Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company’s Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process.
• Drug-Free Workplace: Millennium Space Systems is a Drug-Free Workplace (DFW) where post-offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.
• Shift: This position is for 1st shift.
• Safety Sensitive Statement: Some positions may be safety-sensitive and subject to random drug and alcohol testing. This specific position is not Safety Sensitive.
• Relocation: Relocation assistance is not a negotiable benefit for this position.
• Visa Sponsorship: Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.
• This position is not contingent upon program award.

Compensation & Benefits

Millennium Space Systems, a Boeing Company, strives to deliver a Total Rewards package designed to attract, engage, and retain top talent. Elements of this package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.

• Summary Pay Range: $21.15 /hr – $35.58 /hr (Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations).

Eligible employees may also enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. Specific programs and options may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Equal Opportunity & Legal Disclaimers

Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

• EEO is the law
• Boeing EEO Policy
• Request an Accommodation
• Applicant Privacy
• Boeing Participates in E – Verify: E-Verify (English), E-Verify (Spanish)
• Right to Work Statement: Right to Work (English), Right to Work (Spanish)

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