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Physics Simulation Intern Jobs in Albuquerque, NM

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 Albuquerque, NM?

The most popular types of Physics Simulation jobs in Albuquerque, NM are:

What job categories do people searching Physics Simulation Intern jobs in Albuquerque, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Physics Simulation Intern jobs in Albuquerque, NM are:

Infographic showing various Physics Simulation Intern job openings in Albuquerque, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution.

Intern, R&D Graduate Summer - Research and Applications of Mechanics of Structures (RAMS), Onsite

Sandia

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

What Your Job Will Be Like
We are seeking highly qualified graduate engineering students interested in structural mechanics research and applications, including environments definitions, computational solid mechanics and structural dynamics, material mechanics, and shock physics. Successful candidates will be assigned a staff mentor and work as part of a team of interns from across the United States. Students will be challenged to conduct independent and group work and to actively engage in research and applied activities of national importance while leveraging world-class computational resources.
While participating in the program, RAMS interns undertake a diverse range of tasks including:
  • Collaborate daily with subject matter experts in computational solid mechanics, structural dynamics, shock physics, and environments engineering
  • Develop and implement computational capabilities for use in a production finite element analysis codes
  • Apply production finite element analysis codes in the simulation of complex structures in extreme mechanical environments
  • Apply advanced signal processing and data analysis techniques to investigate mechanical loads and environments
  • Partner with experimentalists to design and conduct experiments to calibrate and validate computational simulations

Due to the nature of the work, the selected applicant must be able to work onsite.
Salary Range
At Sandia, we value the important work done by our interns and its contribution to National Security. Because of this, our interns earn competitive pay rates. Our pay structure is based on earned credit hours, classification, and degree level. Your pay rate will be determined during the hire process and included in your offer package. You can view the Intern Pay Rate chart here .
Qualifications We Require
You bring the confidence and skills to be eligible for the job by meeting these minimum requirements:
  • Earned bachelor's degree
  • Currently attending and enrolled full time in the spring term immediately preceding the internship (or scheduled to graduate in the spring) in an accredited science, engineering, or math graduate program
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0/4.0
  • Ability to work up to 40 hours per week during the summer
  • Ability to secure and maintatin a U.S. security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship

Note: If you have not yet started your graduate program, please apply to an undergraduate intern position.
Qualifications We Desire
  • Pursuing a M.S. or Ph.D. degree in mechanical, civil, or aerospace engineering or similar discipline
  • Research interests in Solid Mechanics, Shock Physics, Material Mechanics, Structural Dynamics or similar disciplines
  • Experience with finite element analysis tools
  • Experience in computer programming and code development with languages, such as C/C++, Fortran, Python, etc.
  • Experience with data processing and statistical methods
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Students having completed at least one year of studies toward an MS or PhD degree are preferred.

Posting Duration
This posting will be open for application submissions for a minimum of three (3) calendar days, including the 'posting date'. Sandia reserves the right to extend the posting date at any time.
About Our Team
The Research and Applications of Mechanics of Structures (RAMS) Institute is hosted by Sandia's Structural Mechanics Research and Applications (SMR&A) group, which is responsible for the research, development, and application of computational capabilities in the definition of extreme mechanical environments and the simulation of complex structural systems critical to National Security. The SMR&A group is comprised of 5 connected departments representing diverse expertise in computational solid mechanics, structural dynamics, shock physics, and environments engineering.
About Sandia
Sandia National Laboratories is the nation's premier science and engineering lab for national security and technology innovation, with teams of specialists focused on cutting-edge work in a broad array of areas. Some of the main reasons we love our jobs:
  • Challenging work with amazing impact that contributes to security, peace, and freedom worldwide
  • Extraordinary co-workers
  • Some of the best tools, equipment, and research facilities in the world
  • Career advancement and enrichment opportunities
  • Flexible work arrangements for many positions include 9/80 (work 80 hours every two weeks, with every other Friday off) and 4/10 (work 4 ten-hour days each week) compressed workweeks, part-time work, and telecommuting (a mix of onsite work and working from home)
  • Generous vacation, strong medical and other benefits, competitive 401k, learning opportunities, relocation assistance and amenities aimed at creating a solid work/life balance*

World-changing technologies. Life-changing careers. Learn more about Sandia at: http://www.sandia.gov
*These benefits vary by job classification.
Security Clearance
Sandia is required by DOE to conduct a pre-employment drug test and background review that includes checks of personal references, credit, law enforcement records, and employment/education verifications. Applicants for employment need to be able to obtain and maintain a DOE L-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship. If you hold more than one citizenship (i.e., of the U.S. and another country), your ability to obtain a security clearance may be impacted.
Applicants offered employment with Sandia are subject to a federal background investigation to meet the requirements for access to classified information or matter if the duties of the position require a DOE security clearance. Substance abuse or illegal drug use, falsification of information, criminal activity, serious misconduct or other indicators of untrustworthiness can cause a clearance to be denied or terminated by the DOE, resulting in the inability to perform the duties assigned and subsequent termination of employment.
EEO
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status and any other protected class under state or federal law.
NNSA Requirements for MedPEDs
If you have a Medical Portable Electronic Device (MedPED), such as a pacemaker, defibrillator, drug-releasing pump, hearing aids, or diagnostic equipment and other equipment for measuring, monitoring, and recording body functions such as heartbeat and brain waves, if employed by Sandia National Laboratories you may be required to comply with NNSA security requirements for MedPEDs.
If you have a MedPED and you are selected for an on-site interview at Sandia National Laboratories, there may be additional steps necessary to ensure compliance with NNSA security requirements prior to the interview date.