Junior Design Engineer - Summer Intern

We Go Beyond for A Safer World

At Tait Communications, our Summer Internships give students the opportunity to work on real projects, solve genuine engineering challenges, and contribute to products that help keep communities safe and connected.

Te Tūranga - The Role

As software security requirements continue to evolve globally, ensuring that only trusted software can be deployed and run on our products is increasingly important. In this project, you will help develop and validate a secure software distribution process for next-generation base stations.

Working alongside experienced engineers, you will prototype a certificate-based code-signing workflow integrated into the build and release process. You will sign critical software components, including the bootloader, Linux kernel, root filesystem (rootfs), and database migration scripts, and provision signing keys into the device's Trusted Platform Module (TPM).

By the end of the internship, you will demonstrate a secure boot chain across bootloader, the Linux kernel, and rootfs, along with secure software update and recovery workflows, including signed image reflashing and authenticated configuration updates.

This project provides hands-on experience with embedded Linux, cybersecurity, cryptographic signing, TPMs, and secure software deployment practices used in modern telecommunications systems.

Ō pūkenga - About You

We're looking for a student who is curious, analytical, and excited by the challenge of building secure and reliable systems.

You may be studying Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mathematics, or a related discipline.

To be successful in this role you will also have:

• Experience with or an interest in Linux-based systems.

• Some familiarity with shell scripting and software development.

• Programming experience in C++, Python, or similar languages.

• An interest in cybersecurity, cryptography, or secure software development practices.

• Strong problem-solving skills and a willingness to learn new technologies.

Most importantly, we're looking for someone who enjoys tackling complex technical challenges and is keen to learn from experienced engineers while contributing to meaningful real-world projects.

Ngā painga - What's in it for You?

We are an employer that is committed to making a difference for families and communities and supporting people to build rewarding careers. We achieve this through employing people who connect with our Values (Commitment to listen. Courage to Act and Integrity to Deliver) that underpin our way of working together. We are committed to investing in our people, developing both individuals and teams to support a high-performance culture.

By undertaking a Summer Internship with us, you will be joining a global leader with over 50 years’ experience in critical communications. You will get the chance to learn from experienced engineers, whilst working on projects with real world significance, using cutting edge technology at the forefront of technical innovation. As well as developing your technical skills through on-the-job learning, we’ll also support you in developing the necessary soft skills to become a valued team member.

If you are passionate about problem solving, able to work autonomously and as part of a team, and can take initiative and communicate effectively, then we want to hear from you! We have a variety of exciting projects for you to choose from, covering a range of engineering, service management and technological functions.

To apply, please include a cover letter addressing the following questions:

• Why does this internship appeal to you, and how does it align with your future career goals?

• Describe a project, achievement, or experience you are most proud of. What was your contribution, and what did you learn from the experience?

• What do you hope to achieve or gain from completing this internship?

• What is your current level of study, and when do you expect to graduate?

Please note: Your cover letter will be used as part of the assessment process, so we encourage you to provide specific examples and insights into your experiences, aspirations, and suitability for the internship, maximum 200 words per question. Applications will close Sunday 6th September, please contact [email protected] for any further questions.

About Us

For more than 50 years, Tait Communications has been designing, delivering, and supporting critical communications networks for public safety, transportation and utility customers around the world. Founded in Christchurch by Sir Angus Tait, we now have a network of customers and offices that spans the globe.

Our employees value being part of a creative team committed to providing technological solutions that make a real difference to the communities we support. By joining Tait, you'll be joining a community of people with a wealth of knowledge and expertise, who care deeply about their work and the genuine impact it has for our customers, and who support each other to grow and develop.

Diversity & Inclusion Statement

Tait Communications is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and empowered to succeed.
We are encourage applications from all backgrounds to apply.

How to Apply

Sound like your kind of role? If you are looking to take the next step in your career and are ready to work for a high performing organization, alongside talented people, please submit your application with CV and cover letter via our online careers site. Only applications submitted through the official application process will be considered.

Applications will be assessed as they are received, and your CV will be held unless you contact us to request this to be removed.

For more information about the company, our products and solutions offered to our customers, please visit our website: www.taitcommunications.com

We encourage applications from all backgrounds to apply.