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Job ID: 8371
Date Posted: June 12, 2026
Quantum-Optical Technician Intern
Position Location: Albuquerque, NM
Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking a Quantum-Optical Technician to join our Strategic & Military Space (SMS) division as a part-time Student Intern.As a member of SDL's embedded science team, the selected candidate will work alongside leading SDL and AFRL scientists and engineers to advance cutting-edge quantum sensing and timing technologies with direct impact on national security in the space domain.
This is an embedded intern position supporting the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) in Albuquerque, NM where the selected candidate will contribute pioneering work in quantum sensors, integrated photonics, and laser telecommunications.
This position has the potential of continued employment or transition to student/full-time employment requiring security clearance eligibility.
This internship is for summer 2026.
The Strategic & Military Space Division delivers advanced satellite and sensor systems that support the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community. Our division is a key component of national security, providing technological solutions and expert mission support. Become part of a team dedicated to making a tangible contribution to our nation's defense capabilities.
Key Responsibilities:
- Supports quantum and optical experiments alongside SDL scientists and engineers
- Builds, fabricates, or assembles mechanical and electrical components for experiments
- Aligns free-space optics, splice optical fiber components
- Records and compiles detailed measurements from experimental apparatus
Required Qualifications:
- Hands-on laboratory experience in quantum, optical, electrical science/engineering, or a related field
- Certification from theCNM (Central New Mexico Community College) Quantum Technician Bootcamp Program.
- Must be able to work 25 hours per week
- Excellent communication skills
- Demonstrated ability to work in diverse, interdisciplinary teams
- Strong problem-solving skills with a creative, curious, and detail-oriented approach
- Ability to adapt to new projects and depending on customer needs
- U.S. citizenshipand the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in the following skills areas:
- Free-space optical alignment
- Fiber-optic splicing
- Fiber-optic and electrical cable building
- Soldering/PCB Soldering
Why Join SDL?
SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.
At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.
The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 7 days; however, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly. For questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.
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Utah State University Space Dynamics Laboratory
Jun 12, 2026