Laboratory Technician Intern

Job ID: 9656
Date Posted: September 28, 2026

Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking a temporary laboratory technician with experience in, soldering, wire harnessing, laboratory test equipment, and Linux/Unix operating systems to become part of our Strategic & Military Space Division team. We are investigating the Earth’s ionosphere and its impact on defense-related systems through applied science and basic research. Our group is developing sensors to monitor the ionosphere with real-time signal and data analysis. The selected candidate should possess familiarity in one or more of the following areas: Bash scripting, high-level programming, signal processing, electrical/mechanical assembly, integration and test activities, board rework, hand soldering, and inspection of assemblies.

SDL’s internship program provides an exciting opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students to get involved with state-of-the art technologies in space-, airborne-, and ground-based systems. With the support of engineers and mentors, interns can work on professional-level assignments that complement their academic studies. The program also includes training workshops, networking opportunities, and a variety of events and activities. Interns will be paid a competitive monthly stipend.

This position is located on Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, NM and may require occasional travel to help with equipment installation and maintenance.

This position has the potential of continued employment or transition to student/full-time employment requiring security clearance eligibility.

Required Qualifications:

• Must be pursuing a degree in electrical engineering, physics, technician support, or a related field or certification
• Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance
• Experience working in a lab environment
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as a team member and the ability to be productive in a dynamic and collaborative environment
• Good communication skills, both written and verbal
• Basic mechanical aptitude to include drilling, hammering, cutting, etc.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with Linux/Unix based operating systems and networking
• Experience with laboratory test equipment – Digital Multi-Meters, Oscilloscopes, Spectrum Analyzers, etc.
• Experience soldering and assembling computers
• Hardware and computer diagnostic skills
• Experience soldering in a lab environment
• Ability to apply basic principles of electronics and signal processing in real situations

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift objects more than 50 pounds
• Ability to work outdoors assembling and testing equipment regardless of weather
• Ability to spend substantial time walking, standing, pulling, reaching, stooping, squatting, climbing, bending, kneeling, and pushing/pulling objects

Position Timeline:

• Start date: mid-October to mid-November dependent on candidate availability
• Tentative end date: mid-May to mid-June dependent on candidate availability
• Position would allow for 30 or more hours of work per week

In your application’s cover letter, let us know if you possess experience in any of the following categories:

• Providing technical support
• Maintaining and calibrating laboratory equipment
• Maintaining logs and equipment records
• Designing and executing testing procedures 
• Data collection and analysis
• Computer building
• Soldering
• Basic programming

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. USU students are not eligible for SDL internship positions and are encouraged to explore SDL’s Student Employment opportunities. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly.