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Physics Simulation Intern Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Physics Simulation Intern information

What does a physics simulation intern do?

A Physics Simulation Intern assists with developing and testing computer simulations that model physical systems, such as fluid dynamics, mechanics, or electromagnetism. They often work under the guidance of experienced engineers or scientists, using programming languages and specialized software to create realistic simulations for research or product development. Their responsibilities may also include analyzing simulation results, debugging code, and helping to improve simulation accuracy. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in computational physics and software development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a physics simulation intern?

To thrive as a Physics Simulation Intern, you need a solid foundation in physics, mathematics, and programming, usually supported by coursework or a degree in physics, engineering, or computer science. Familiarity with simulation software such as MATLAB, Python libraries (NumPy, SciPy), and tools like COMSOL or ANSYS is often required. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively and convey complex results. These skills are crucial for accurately modeling physical systems and delivering valuable insights to research or development teams.

What types of projects or tasks can a physics simulation intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Physics Simulation Intern, you will typically assist in developing, testing, and refining simulation models for physical phenomena, which may include fluid dynamics, particle systems, mechanical interactions, or thermal processes. You'll often work closely with experienced engineers or researchers, contributing to codebases, running simulations, and analyzing results. Collaboration is key, as you'll frequently interact with software developers, physicists, and data analysts to ensure your simulations align with project goals. Expect a mix of independent technical work and team meetings, with opportunities to present your findings and receive feedback.

What is the difference between Physics Simulation Intern vs Physics Engineer?

AspectPhysics Simulation InternPhysics Engineer
Required CredentialsEnrolled in or recent graduate in physics, engineering, or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in physics, engineering, or related discipline
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in research labs or tech companiesFull-time engineering teams, R&D departments
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, gaming, simulation firms, research institutionsEngineering firms, aerospace, automotive, gaming industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Physics Simulation Intern and a Physics Engineer lies in experience level, responsibilities, and employment status. Interns typically focus on learning and supporting projects, while engineers take on more complex tasks and design responsibilities within their teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Physics Simulation jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Physics Simulation jobs in Virginia are:

What job categories do people searching Physics Simulation Intern jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Physics Simulation Intern jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Physics Simulation Intern jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Physics Simulation Intern job openings:

2027 Guidance Navigation and Control Intern Dulles VA

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Dulles, VA

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 367 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: NoCLEARANCE TYPE: NoneTRAVEL: NoDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

An internship at Northrop Grumman is unique. Sure, you'll learn new skills, explore our enterprise, network with experts, connect with thought leaders, and finish with a resume that opens doors. But you'll gain something even more valuable: pride in what you've done.

Northrop Grumman is seeking Guidance Navigation and Control to join the Space Systems Intern Program. This position will be located in Dulles, VA.

GNC is designing, building, testing spacecraft components for a mix of DoD, NASA, and commercial customers. We are leaders in innovative solutions to the rapidly growing/evolving fields of space based autonomous rendezvous and docking and rapid design/production of small satellites. We are seeking a highly-talented and ambitious Engineer to take responsibility for the attitude control solutions that meet our spacecraftrequirements. The spacecraft GNC analysis engineer will work within the GNC subsystem team and under the supervision of the GNC subsystem lead.
Depending on the engineer's strengths and areas of interest, an engineer may choose to focus on one of two areas GNC analysis or GNC components (or some combination).
A spacecraft GNC analysis engineer is expected to:
Design, analyze, and tune spacecraft attitude and position control loops using time and frequency domain techniques
Design, analyze, and tune sequential filters (e.g. Kalman filters) for attitude determination and relative navigation
Analyze and test the spacecraft GNC subsystem performance using simulations and other analytic tools
Implement GNC algorithms in flight software and support flight software qualification testing
Perform analysis to support early design phase concept development including actuator sizing and placement, sensor selection and placement, and predicted performance assessments
Develop simulation models for sensors (e.g. star tracker, rate gyro, accelerometer, GPS, magnetometer, sun sensors), actuators (e.g. reaction wheel, torque bar, thruster, CMG), system dynamics (e.g. rigid body, multi-body, orbit mechanics, flexible models), and the space environment (e.g. atmospheric, solar radiation pressure, third-body gravity, geopotential)
A spacecraft GNC component engineer is expected to:
Perform GNC component trade studies (including make/buy trades and supplier identification/research). These components may include but are not limited to star cameras, lidars, GPS receivers, sun sensors, reaction wheels, IR cameras, and space based visible cameras.
Work with the subcontracts/supply chain team as the technical lead to manage procurements including documentation and design reviews
Work with the team to integrate and test all spacecraft GNC components
Work closely with multiple suppliers, across multiple subsystems, presenting to managers and customers. Communication is a key element of your role
All GNC engineers are expected to:
Apply engineering principles, industry standards, company process, and knowledge of vehicle dynamics, aerodynamics, propulsion, classical/modern control, and estimation theory to perform tasks to advanced program/project goals
Document designs, analysis, and test results and create presentation materials
Present designs, analysis, and test results to internal and external customers
Work well within small- to medium-sized groups

Basic Qualifications:

A candidate, regardless of age and hiring source, must meet ALL of the below criteria. The candidate must:

  • Be enrolled full-time and pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree from an accredited college/university AND graduating after Fall 2027

  • Be majoring in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering

  • Be available to work full-time (40 hours per week) for at least 10 weeks during summer 2027

  • Be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance (U.S. citizenship is a pre-requisite)

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Ability to obtain a Top Secret clearance

  • MS or PhD degree in engineering, physics, or math

  • Minimum overall GPA of 3.7

  • Proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink and C/C++

  • Experience in spacecraft GNC subsystem design, analysis, and testing

  • Experience implementing GNC algorithms on embedded systems

  • Prior work experience in related field

  • Proficiency in Microsoft office suite, version control tools such as SVN or Git

  • Experience with Model Based Systems engineering, digital transformation tools such as the Atlassian suite.

  • Previous/current membership or leadership roles in professional groups, clubs, or extracurricular activities is desired

  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities

#SpaceEngJobs
#SpaceSoftwareJobs

#SpaceGNCJobs

#NoVASpace

The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939