Are you an engineering graduate eager to apply your technical skills to meaningful scientific research? Join the National Solar Observatory (NSO) and gain hands-on experience contributing to the next generation of solar observing technology.
Headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, NSO is a National Science Foundation (NSF) national research and development center dedicated to advancing our understanding of the Sun and its influence on Earth and the solar system. Managed by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), NSO operates and supports world-class solar telescopes and scientific facilities that enable cutting-edge research in solar physics and heliophysics.
We are seeking a motivated Mechanical Engineering Post-Bachelor's Intern to support the Next-Generation Ground-Based Solar Observing Network (ngGONG), an international initiative currently in the design phase. This project will modernize NSO's global network of solar observing stations, enabling continuous, high-quality solar observations that advance solar physics research and our understanding of space weather.
During this eight-month internship, you'll work closely with ngGONG scientists, engineers, and administrators to support the design, prototyping, development, and documentation of systems that will be essential to the new solar observing network. This hands-on learning opportunity is designed to help engineering graduates develop practical experience while preparing for future educational or professional opportunities in a related field.
As part of the ngGONG project team, you will:
Support the design, prototyping, evaluation, and development of data acquisition, optical, computer, and/or mechanical systems for a future network of solar observations.
Document technical evaluations: Record evaluation processes, methods, results, and outcomes to support engineering activities and project documentation.
Communicate project progress: Prepare and deliver presentations at internal meetings to share progress, technical findings, and conclusions related to assigned tasks.
Collaborate with project teams: Participate in project meetings to learn about the broader scope of ngGONG and its scientific and engineering focus areas.
Participate in professional development: Engage in classes, mentoring sessions, and other professional development opportunities, either virtually or in person.
Maintain organizational accountability: Support the proper management and control of AURA property within your work area, including reporting missing, stolen, or non-working property to the appropriate personnel.
Ensure compliance: Follow applicable government award terms and conditions assigned to the position.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
Must have an engineering B.S. degree from an accredited college or university.
Experience with requirements in an engineering setting.
Familiarity with reading and summarizing professional publications.
Ability to work effectively in a team and communicate complex technical concepts clearly.
Availability to work on-site at NSO Headquarters in Boulder, Colorado, if needed during the internship.
Preferred Qualifications
Background in Mechanical or General Engineering.
Experience with 3D CAD modeling.
Experience with creating block diagrams.
Compensation: $25.00–$28.00 per hour, depending on skills, qualifications, and experience.
As an AURA employee, you'll have access to a benefits package that includes:
Paid time off.
Retirement plan contributions.
A collaborative work environment supporting scientific research and innovation.
Opportunities to participate in professional development, including classes and mentoring.
About AURA
The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) is a consortium of 49 U.S. institutions and three international affiliates committed to advancing astronomical discovery. AURA manages world-class observatories for the National Science Foundation, providing scientific leadership, operational excellence, and collaborative research environments that support groundbreaking discoveries.
This position will remain open until filled. Anyone who needs a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process may request support here.
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