What are the responsibilities and job description for the Computer Engineering Intern position at United Protective Technologies?
Description
Computer Engineering Interns support UPT’s research and development efforts under the supervision of a Lead Engineer and/or Project Manager. Interns contribute to the design, implementation, testing, and documentation of embedded computing systems for defense, aerospace, and critical infrastructure applications. This role emphasizes hands-on R&D work in hardware/software integration, digital systems, and embedded architectures, with exposure to the full early-stage engineering lifecycle.
Responsibilities
• Support R&D engineers with embedded system design, development, testing, and documentation
• Assist with hardware/software integration, including microcontrollers, processors, and peripherals
• Support development of low-level firmware and embedded software
• Assist with digital hardware design, interface definition, and system bring-up
• Participate in prototype integration, laboratory testing, and data collection
• Contribute to technical documentation and project planning activities
• Collaborate with computer, electrical, mechanical, software, and systems engineers on integrated R&D efforts
Required Qualifications
• Ability to apply computer engineering fundamentals to research and development problems
• Hands-on aptitude and strong attention to detail
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, changing R&D environment
• Strong teamwork and technical communication skills
• Experience with at least one programming language (e.g., C, C , Python)
• Familiarity with basic digital logic and computer architecture concepts
• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel and Word)
• U.S. citizenship required
• Ability to pass a background check
Preferred Qualifications
• Coursework or experience in embedded systems, firmware development, or computer architecture
• Experience with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems (RTOS), or FPGA/HDL concepts
• Experience with debugging tools (e.g., logic analyzers, JTAG, oscilloscopes)
• Interest in defense or aerospace embedded computing systems
Education Requirement
• Current student who has completed two or more years in a Computer Engineering program at an ABET-accredited university