Optical Engineering Intern - Summer 2026

Job Title: Optical Engineering Intern - Summer 2026

Job Category: Intern/Co-op

Time Type: Part time

Minimum Clearance Required to Start: None

Employee Type: Part-Time On-Call

Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10%

Type of Travel: Local

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The Opportunity:
CACI is currently looking for an Engineering or Physics Intern to join our team supporting the Electro-Optical Components (EOC) Division for the Department of Army C5ISR Center for summer 2026. Join our passionate team of industry-leading next generation imaging sensors for advanced EO/IR Systems to deliver state of the art capability in support of our nation’s warfighters.   As a member of the CACI Team, you will support the men and women charged with safeguarding the American people and enhancing the Nation’s safety, security, and prosperity. Our warfighters are on the front lines,  every day, protecting our national security from the increasingly sophisticated and complex threats of our adversaries. CACI programs thrive in a culture of innovation and are constantly seeking individuals who can bring creative ideas to solve complex problems, both technical and procedural at the team and portfolio levels. The ability to be adaptable and to work constructively with a technically diverse and geographically separated team is crucial. 

This position will be based in Fort Belvoir, VA and will require working onsite with some opportunities for travel.


Responsibilities:

• Work in the Night Vision and Thermal Sensors Branch’s various test and evaluation laboratories, performing measurements on current EO/IR sensor systems and developing new measurement capabilities for novel sensing systems.
• Configure camera and test equipment for capture, using a variety of software packages including NVlabCap. 
• Compare measured results with sensor model predictions.
• Support team members in spatial and temporal measurements of systems in the lab and in the field.
• Support data collection and other test events for various projects.
• Technical writing / technical reports.
• Recommending process improvements.
• Troubleshooting and problem solving. 

Qualifications:

Required: 

• Ability to undergo a full background check is required.  
• Currently enrolled in and in the pursuit of a bachelor’s or graduate degree in engineering or physics from an accredited university.  Maintain at least a 3.0 GPA in major coursework. Exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis depending on skills and passion.
• Ability to support multiple projects simultaneously.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship, now or at any time in the future.

Desired:

• Eligibility to obtain a DoD Secret clearance.
• Demonstrated experience with documentation, planning, and organization skills.
• Experience with EO/IR sensor measurement and modeling including use of NVLabCap and NV-IPM tools.
• Previous internship / co-op work experience.

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What You Can Expect:

 A culture of integrity.

At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you’ll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer’s missions and driven by a higher purpose – to ensure the safety of our nation.

An environment of trust.

CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You’ll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.

A focus on continuous growth.

Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground — in your career and in our legacy.

Pay Range:

There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.

The proposed salary range for this position is:

$45,900 - $91,900