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The Test and Assessment Department of the Research and Development Directorate for the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is offering a master's level internship opportunity in test support, assessment and diagnostics in electrical and radio frequency.

What will I be doing and why should I apply?

DTRA-West offers a distinctly unique experience for research-based experiences, professional development, and future career opportunities for selected fellows and interns, not to mention the beauty of Albuquerque and the surrounding area. As a selected candidate, you will engage with researchers and engineers within the DTRA complex and be a part of, and witness to, objective evaluations and assessments of new capabilities aimed at countering WMD and emerging threats. Albuquerque is New Mexico’s largest city, where the modern city skyline is set against a backdrop of the stunning Sandia Mountains and an endless, timeless blue sky. Albuquerque boasts a unique multicultural history and heritage. Native American, Hispanic & Latino cultural influences are a part of everyday life.

As an ORISE participant, you will join a community of scientists and researchers, engaging in planning and accomplishing research projects in the Test and Assessment Department of the Research and Development Directorate - Test Support, Sensitive Assessment Division, Diagnostics Branch at DTRA. As an intern, you'll be exposed to cutting edge technologies and have a role in equipment fielding decisions across the DoD. Under the guidance of a mentor, you will engage in activities and research in several areas, including:

• Observing and participating in operational assessment activities to support client requirements for new and emerging technology
• Characterizing, engaging, and developing operationally relevant and realistic assessment environments
• Utilizing advanced instrumentation to assess radio frequency (RF) low probability of detect/intercept (LPD/LPI), physical characterization (vibration, heat, power), and operational suitability in realistic employment environments
• Conducting results analysis to support Vulnerability Assessments and Susceptibility Assessments
• Supporting operational test assessment design to ensure analytically valid results, including reviewing key performance parameters and key system attributes
• Interacting with project managers, clients, stakeholders, and experts for several unique projects across a wide range of technical fields

Where will I be located?

Albuquerque, New Mexico

What is the anticipated start date?

The Test and Assessment Department of the Research and Development Directorate for DTRA is ready to make appointments immediately. Exact start dates will be determined at the time of selection and in coordination with the selected candidate. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis and internships or fellowships will be filled as qualified candidates are identified.

What is the appointment length?

This appointment is a full-time, twelve-month research appointment, with the possibility to be renewed for additional research periods. Appointments may be extended depending on funding availability, project assignment, program rules, and availability of the participant. 

What are the benefits?

You will receive a stipend to be determined by DTRA. Stipends are typically based on a participant’s academic standing, discipline, experience, and research facility location. The anticipated stipend range for this opportunity is $5400-$5800 per month based on full time participation.

Other benefits may include the following:

• Health Insurance Supplement (Participants are eligible to purchase health insurance through ORISE)
• Relocation/Dislocation Allowance
• Training and Travel Allowance

About DTRA

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency provides cross-cutting solutions to enable the DoD, the United States Government, and international partners to DETER strategic attack against the United States and its allies; PREVENT, reduce, and counter Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) and emerging threats; and PREVAIL against WMD-armed adversaries in crisis and conflict.  This opportunity is within the Research and Development Directorate of DTRA, Test and Assessment Department. For more information about the DTRA, please visit https://www.dtra.mil/  

About ORISE

This program, administered by Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and DoD. Participants do not enter into an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, DoD or any other office or agency. Instead, you will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment.  Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.  For more information, visit the ORISE Research Participation Program at the U.S. Department of Defense.

The qualified candidate will have an earned master's degree in Electric or Electronic Engineering, Computer Science, Networks and Communications, Radio-Frequency Engineering or related discipline within the past 60 months or are expected to earn a master's degree in one of these disciplines by June 30, 2025

• Minimum GPA of 3.0 is required.
• Candidate must be at least 21 years of age at the time of application. 
• Must be able to obtain and hold a security clearance and pass random drug screening.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen

Highly qualified candidates will demonstrate:

• Experience in or knowledge of RF theory and application and network theory
• Knowledge of Test and Evaluation support and programing knowledge (MATLAB, Python, excel, etc.)
• Ability and desire to learn new equipment and employ to support assessments
• Strong communications skills to explain complex issues to a non-technical persons

The selected candidate must be able to pass interim security clearance requirement, hold a security clearance, and pass random drug screening.  Appointment offers will be rescinded should the candidate fail to meet the drug screening and interim security clearance requirement.

Application Requirements

A complete application consists of:

• Zintellect Profile
• Educational and Employment History
• Essay Questions (goals, experiences, and skills relevant to the opportunity)
• Resume (PDF)
• Transcripts/Academic Records - For this opportunity, an unofficial transcript or copy of the student academic records printed by the applicant or by academic advisors from internal institution systems may be submitted. Click here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts.
• One Recommendations - Your application will be considered incomplete until the recommendation is submitted. We encourage you to contact your recommender as soon as you start your application to ensure they are able to complete the recommendation form and to let them know to expect a message from Zintellect. The recommender will be asked to rate your scientific capabilities, personal characteristics, and describe how they know you. You can always log back in to your Zintellect account and check the status of your application. 

If you have questions, send an email to orisedod@orise.orau.gov.  Please list the reference code of this opportunity DTRA-2024-0003RR in the subject line of the email.

Connect with ORISE...on the GO! Download the new ORISE GO mobile app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to help you stay engaged, connected, and informed during your ORISE experience and beyond!

• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree: Master's Degree received within the last 60 months or anticipated to be received by 6/30/2025 11:59:00 PM.
• Minimum Overall GPA: 3.00
• Discipline(s):
  • Computer, Information, and Data Sciences (8 )
  • Engineering (6 )
  • Mathematics and Statistics (1 )
• Veteran Status: Veterans Preference, degree received within the last 120 month(s).

I am 21 years of age or older at the time of application.