Optical Engineer Intern Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, the National Solar Observatory (NSO) is an NSF national research and development center dedicated to advancing our understanding of the Sun and its influence on Earth and the solar system. NSO operates and supports world-class solar telescopes that enable cutting-edge research in solar physics and heliophysics. The observatory and its facilities are managed by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), a consortium of 49 U.S. institutions and three international affiliates that operates premier astronomical observatories worldwide.

This position supports the National Solar Observatory’s Next-Generation Ground-Based Solar Observing Network (ngGONG), a major international initiative currently in the design phase. ngGONG will modernize NSO’s global network of solar observatory stations, enabling continuous, high-quality observations that advance solar physics research and improve our understanding of space weather.

NSO is hiring for a full-time post-bachelor’s intern to work closely with the Next Generation GONG (ngGONG) scientists, engineers and administrators to support the design, prototyping, development, and documentation of systems that will be crucial components of the design of the new solar observation network. This is intended to be a hands-on learning experience for college degree holders in a unique setting, contributing directly to solar research and technology development and preparing them for future educational or professional development steps in a related career.  This is an eight-month assignment.

• Support the design, prototyping, evaluation, and development, of data acquisition, optical, computer, and/or mechanical systems for a future network of solar observations.
• Documenting evaluation process and outcomes.
• Make presentations at internal meetings about progress and conclusions on assigned tasks.
• Participate in project meetings to learn broader scope of project and focus areas.
• Participate, virtually and/or in person, in professional development offerings, including classes or mentoring sessions.
• Eight Month Internship: 40 hours/week
• All AURA employees are responsible for the proper management and control of all AURA property within their work area, whether assigned to them or someone else. This responsibility includes reporting any known missing, stolen, or non-working property in their work area to their supervisor or the AURA Property
• Responsible for ensuring compliance with government award terms and conditions assigned to this position.

• Other duties as assigned

• Must have a B.A. or B.S. degree from an accredited college or university.
• Basic knowledge of physical sciences, optics, engineering, and computer systems.
• Basic computer skills.
• Knowledge of Python or IDL programming languages.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and communicate complex technical concepts clearly.
• Availability to work on-site (NSO Headquarters, Boulder, Colorado) if needed during the internship.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position at least 50% of the time.
• Occasional need to move about inside the office environment to access files, office tools, attendance in a meeting room, etc.
• Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity tools that require fine motor skills, such as a calculator, copy machine, computer printer, etc.
• May occasionally need to position self to maintain computer and related tools.
• Seldomly needed to move objects up to 10 pounds.
• Constant communication with other individuals. Must be able to discern and exchange information as appropriate to the situation.
• Constant need to distinguish, discern, and identify a variety of objects and fine details with accuracy.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills required by personnel so classified. This Institute promotes Equal Employment Opportunity workplace that includes reasonable accommodations to otherwise qualified, disabled applicants and employees.

Hourly pay rate: $25.00-$28.00 The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications, and experience. 

AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at Benefits by Location - Aura Human Resources   

The National Solar Observatory is operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), a consortium of leading universities and research institutions committed to advancing astronomical discovery. AURA manages world-class observatories for the National Science Foundation, providing scientific leadership, operational excellence, and a collaborative environment that supports groundbreaking research. As part of AURA, NSO benefits from shared resources and a community dedicated to innovation, transparency, and public service, ensuring its work has broad and lasting impact.

If you’re interested in providing high-level engineering support for a mission-driven scientific program at one of the world’s premier observatories, we encourage you to apply. Applications received by June 9, 2026, will receive priority consideration. This position will remain open until filled.

Submit your CV and cover letter (PDF format preferred) via our application system. Please name your files in the format: Lastname_Docname.pdf.

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here