Summer Intern – System-Level Software Development

Job Description

About the Company:

Riverside Research is an independent National Security Nonprofit organization. Its core mission is dedicated to research and development in the national interest. The company specializes in providing high-end technical services, advanced research and development (R&D), and prototype solutions to address some of the most challenging technical problems facing the country.

As a not-for-profit, technology-oriented defense company, Riverside Research prioritizes service to its customers and support of its staff. It operates as an affirmative action-equal opportunity employer, adhering to all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding recruitment and hiring. The company offers comprehensive compensation and benefit packages to its employees. Employment decisions are based solely on technical experience, qualifications, and other job-related criteria relevant to its not-for-profit purpose, without discrimination based on protected statuses.

A crucial requirement for all opportunities at Riverside Research is U.S. Citizenship.

Job Description:

This opportunity is for a full-time summer intern position within Riverside Research’s Secure and Resilient Systems group, located in Boston, MA.

Position Overview:
The intern will support the development of system-level software, working alongside experienced computer scientists and cybersecurity professionals. The role focuses on cutting-edge technology initiatives. Interns will contribute to both independent research and development (IRAD) projects and customer-funded contracts, with a strong emphasis on cyber and systems security. The internship provides hands-on experience, fostering a deep understanding of software-hardware interactions and building valuable skills in secure systems development.

Responsibilities:

• Engage in real-world R&D and contract-driven projects.
• Develop strong technical fluency in cyber and systems security.
• Document and communicate design decisions, technical challenges, and progress effectively to technical program management.
• Build tools and/or capabilities using programming languages such as C/C++, Python, and others.
• Actively collaborate with team members on tasks including debugging programs, designing systems, and reviewing technical papers.

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate program in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related major.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively on speculative research projects.
• Possession of strong written and verbal communication skills.

Desired Qualifications:

• Practical experience with programming languages such as C/C++, Python, Rust, and/or Assembly.
• Exposure to scripting in Linux or Unix-like systems.
• Experience with operating systems (OS) or real-time operating systems (RTOS).
• A foundational understanding of cybersecurity principles, including confidentiality, integrity, availability, and authentication.
• The ability to apply mathematical reasoning for analyzing complex problems, developing models, or evaluating quantitative data.
• A strong desire to be exposed to domains like security software engineering and/or general low-level system engineering.
• The capability to establish solid working relationships with technical staff and peers both within the group and across Riverside Research.

Compensation:
The typical compensation range for this position is $30.00 – $35.00 per hour, based on experience, location, and other factors.