Hardware Security Engineering Intern

The Aerospace Corporation

. Directly contribute to hardware security research, development, and applications while helping secure National Security Space Systems .

Posted 10/21/2026full-timeUnited StatesEntry Level💰 $25 - $30 per hourWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in FPGA design and embedded systems, with proficiency in hardware security research and development. Strong collaboration and communication skills are essential for working effectively within teams and across departments.

Highest-signal resume keywords

FPGA DesignEmbedded System DesignHDL Familiarity (VHDL, Verilog, SystemVerilog)Coding and Scripting (C, C++, Python, Perl, Shell)Linux Environment Experience

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

FPGA DesignEmbedded System DesignHDL (VHDL, Verilog, SystemVerilog)Coding (C, C++, Python, Perl, Shell)Linux EnvironmentMicroelectronics Assurance PolicyTroubleshooting Hardware IssuesDebugging Firmware IssuesTechnical DocumentationProject Management

Soft Skills

Strong Written CommunicationStrong Oral CommunicationTeam CollaborationOrganizational SkillsTime Management

Tools & Technologies

AMD XilinxMicrochipIntel AlteraXilinx ZynqMicroblazeARMAltera NIOSMicrosoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)

Certifications & Qualifications

Security Clearance Eligibility

Industry Keywords

Hardware SecurityNational Security Space SystemsVulnerability MitigationTechnical DemonstrationsMentorship Opportunities

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

LinuxPerlPythonC++

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Directly contribute to hardware security research, development, and applications while helping secure National Security Space Systems
Define threat paths and develop guidance on FPGA/ASIC/embedded systems vulnerability mitigations
Diagnose, troubleshoot, and debug hardware and firmware issues
Assist in developing and improving microelectronics assurance policy, requirements, and documentation
Collaborate with other Aerospace departments and external organizations to develop technical demonstrations and capabilities
Participate in trainings and mentorship opportunities

Requirements

What you’ll need

Currently enrolled at an accredited college/university degree program pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, or related program
Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term and ability to return to a degree program full-time after completion of the internship
Minimum GPA 3.0
Experience with FPGA design, including familiarity with HDLs (VHDL, Verilog, and SystemVerilog) and major vendor tools (AMD Xilinx, Microchip, and Intel Altera)
Experience with embedded system design (e.g., Xilinx Zynq/Microblaze, ARM, Altera NIOS)
Experience in coding and scripting with languages such as C, C++, Python, Perl, or Shell
Hands-on experience with Linux environments
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
Strong written and oral communication skills
Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment
Organizational, time management, and project management skills
Flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational needs
Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance
U.S. citizenship required to obtain a security clearance
Transcripts required

Benefits

Comp & perks

Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
Flexible spending accounts
Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
Relocation assistance
Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
Education assistance programs
An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect
Learn and grow through new work opportunities, trainings, and mentorship from experienced staff