Applied Optimization (AO) Job Description

Job Title: Applied Astronomy/Physics Intern Reports to: Principal Scientist

FLSA Status: Part-Time (Non-Exempt) Department: Space Science

Position Objective:

Applied Optimization is an engineering R&D firm working on day and night observations of the sky in the visible and infrared, along with archiving, reporting, and analyzing the collected data

This is a challenging position with direct hands-on responsibility for high quality data acquisition, reporting, analysis, and interpretation

Meticulous, detail-oriented individual who brings consistent quality and reliability to the collection and analysis of astronomy data

Essential Functions:

Support the collection, reduction, and analysis of astronomy data using ground-based telescope equipment

Support optical engineering modifications of new generation telescope equipment

Perform astronomy experiments to support customer requirements

Implement procedures for automation of astronomy data collection

Ensure accuracy and follow documentation procedures for all work; maintain notebook of daily activities and provide weekly report of work

Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

Undergraduate or graduate student enrolled in a program related to the field of astronomy, physics, or engineering physics with a superior academic record

Ability to travel to customer sites for technical support

Attention to detail and effective time and schedule management skills

Effective organizing, planning, debugging, and problem-solving skills

Ability to adapt within a small team to support evolving customer requirements

Ability to execute instructions and communication in written, oral, and diagram form

Demonstrated strong writing, fact-gathering, and analytical skills

Basic computer and software skills including but not necessarily limited to Microsoft Office products (e.g., Outlook, Word, and Power Point)

Ability to occasionally work 2nd shift preferred

Preferred Qualifications:

College sophomore or junior with a cumulative GPA (Grade Point Average) of 3.5 or higher

Minor in computer science or equivalent, with superior academic record

Aptitude for software development using C++, Python, or macros for off-the-shelf astronomy software is highly desirable

Knowledge or experience in navigating astronomical coordinate systems and the night sky

Knowledge or experience in astronomical data collection, reduction, and analysis

Knowledge of optics software such as ZEMAX

Citizenship/Security Clearance Requirements:

U.S. Citizen or Green Card Holder

May be required to obtain and maintain U.S. Government Security Clearance

About Our Internships:

Hours: The internship is a part-time, year-round position that requires a minimum of sixteen hours per week of work. The hours are flexible and they can change from one semester to another based on the student’s class schedule. The weekly hours can be adjusted to balance for the examinations, tests and project submissions.

About Us: Applied Optimization is a growing organization located in Fairborn, OH. We are an equal opportunity employer offering a competitive salary that is commensurate with qualifications and a comprehensive benefits package. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Find out more about us at www.appliedo.com.

This job description is subject to change.