Optical Scientist Graduate-Level Intern (Summer 2027)

Nikon Research Corporation of America (NRCA) with locations in Belmont, California and Tucson, Arizona, is Nikon's advanced research and development subsidiary focused on inventing technologies that will drive Nikon's future products and businesses. We combine the creativity and agility of a startup with the resources and stability of a global technology leader. Our mission is to explore new concepts, develop innovative technologies, and create the intellectual property and technical foundations that enable Nikon's long-term growth and leadership.

The Center for Precision Optical Systems develops advanced optical, photonic, and metrology technologies that support Nikon's future opportunities. Our team designs, builds, and validates prototype optical systems for applications including precision measurement, industrial metrology, machine vision, semiconductor lithography,, and next-generation optical instrumentation. Interns work alongside experienced scientists and engineers on challenging real-world projects that can contribute directly to Nikon's future products and technologies.

Position Title: Optical Scientist Graduate-Level Intern

Location: Tucson, AZ

Position Type: Intern, temporary contract (~10 weeks)

Salary Range: $25-30 per hour, depending on experience

Schedule: Flexible

Environment: Lab environment

Travel: None

Position Overview:

NRCA is seeking a highly motivated and creative optical scientist Graduate-level intern to work on the development of solutions to various optical design challenges in a wide variety of areas such as optical design, optical metrology, and digital manufacturing.

Description of responsibilities:

• Under guidance from senior scientists or engineers, this representative will work on projects that develop and deliver innovative solutions to a variety of challenging problems or assignments.
• Responsible for completing individual tasks or assignments that are task or project focused. 
• Designing, fabricating or testing mechanical parts or equipment. 
• Prepare and deliver presentations on completed projects
• May be responsible for developing new software for analysis (Software Engineering specialty)
• Other duties as required.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Good understanding of geometrical and physical optics
• Pursuing MS or PhD in Optics
• Experience using optical design and modeling software such as FRED, ASAP, LightTools, CODEV, Zemax, RSoft, etc.
• Good communication skills, particularly in the area of preparing and delivering presentations on a weekly to daily basis

If you have most or all of the following, please apply:

• Strong analytical background, highly creative, and able to propose innovative solutions to difficult problems, as well as excellent oral and written communication skills, and the ability to work effectively with a small team.
• Background in geometrical optical design and at least a basic knowledge of linear systems theory as it applies to optical systems (Fourier optics).
• Some experience in modeling optical systems using commercial and custom software.
• Background that includes designing and building experimental optical systems.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work safely in a lab or cleanroom environment

Other Job Requirements:

• Export Control/ ITAR: Due to export control and International Traffic In Arms Regulations (ITAR) requirements, in order to be eligible for NPI employment, you must be a S. citizen, have a permanent resident status in the U.S. (a “green card”), or a foreign national with eligibility as defined by ITAR (22 CFR 120.15).

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Nikon Research Corporation of America is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

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