About the role#
The University of South Florida Institute of Applied Engineering (IAE) is seeking an intern for the Fall 2026 term. This role supports SOFWERX, a venue focused on accelerating innovative capabilities for the U.S. Special Operations Command. You will work on-site in Tampa, Florida, contributing to defense-related projects while gaining hands-on experience in a research environment.
What you'll do#
- Assist with the design, development, and testing of electrical systems for defense-related technologies and prototypes.
- Support the integration of embedded systems, sensors, and control electronics into robotic or communication platforms.
- Conduct research on emerging technologies, electrical components, and power systems relevant to current projects.
- Participate in hardware troubleshooting, circuit design, and system validation activities.
- Engage with engineers and subject matter experts to contribute to real-world solutions.
- Submit weekly market research entries on new technologies or components that could support future innovation.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in a Bachelor’s degree program for Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Physics.
- Junior or Senior standing with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- U.S. citizenship is required due to Department of Defense funding and access to Controlled Unclassified Information.
- Effective written and oral communication skills.
- Strong planning and organizational skills, including a high level of integrity and accuracy.
- Knowledge of embedded programming, power electronics, and control systems is a plus.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications like Excel, Word, and PowerPoint is a plus.
Location & details#
- Location: Tampa, Florida.
- Term: Fall 2026.
- Pay: $18.50 per hour.
- Schedule: This position requires a minimum of 15 hours and a maximum of 20 hours per week.
- Modality: This is an on-site internship with limited remote work opportunities.
About University of South Florida
The University of South Florida is a public research institution founded in 1956. It operates campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota-Manatee. The university serves approximately 50,000 students from nearly 150 countries. It maintains a large research program and holds membership in the Association of American Universities.
How to get in at University of South Florida
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