About the role#
The Hardware Security Engineering Undergrad Intern will join the Cyber and Mission Technology Department. You will support National Security Space Systems by contributing to hardware security research, development, and applications. This is a full-time, on-site internship for Summer 2027.
What you'll do#
- Define threat paths and develop guidance on vulnerability mitigations for FPGA, ASIC, and embedded systems.
- Diagnose, troubleshoot, and debug hardware and firmware issues.
- Assist in improving microelectronics assurance policies, requirements, and documentation.
- Collaborate with internal departments and external organizations to create new technical demonstrations and capabilities.
- Participate in training and mentorship opportunities to grow your technical skills.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in an accredited bachelor’s degree program for computer engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, or a related field.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 (3.5 or higher preferred).
- Availability to work full-time for at least 10 weeks outside of your university term.
- Experience with FPGA design, including HDLs like VHDL, Verilog, or SystemVerilog, and vendor tools from AMD Xilinx, Microchip, or Intel Altera.
- Familiarity with embedded system design such as ARM, Xilinx Zynq, or Altera NIOS.
- Proficiency in coding or scripting with Python, C, C++, Perl, or Shell.
- Hands-on experience with Linux environments and Microsoft Office.
- Strong communication, time management, and organizational skills.
- Ability to adapt to changing needs and work effectively in a team.
- U.S. citizenship is required to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
- Submission of academic transcripts is required.
- Preferred qualifications include experience with hardware security, machine learning, or ASIC/FPGA verification tools, and an active security clearance.
Location & details#
- This position is based on-site in El Segundo, California, or Chantilly, Virginia.
- This is a paid internship.
About The Aerospace Corporation
The Aerospace Corporation operates as a nonprofit organization focused on space research and technology. Founded in 1960, the company provides technical expertise for national space programs and national security systems. It maintains a workforce of over 5,000 employees across offices in Virginia and California. The firm specializes in areas including launch vehicles, artificial intelligence, and space policy.
How to get in at The Aerospace Corporation
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