Intern, Human Resource at Opto-Knowledge Systems in Torrance, CA

About OKSI

Opto-Knowledge Systems, Inc. (OKSI) designs and builds electro-optical and infrared sensor systems, autonomous platforms, and modeling and simulation solutions that support national defense and aerospace missions. Our team works on technology that matters, and we're looking for people who want to contribute to that mission from day one.

Position Summary

The HR Coordinator Intern will support the Human Resources team with day-to-day administrative and operational tasks across recruiting, onboarding, employee records, and compliance. This is a hands-on opportunity to learn the fundamentals of HR in a fast-paced aerospace and defense environment, with exposure to full-cycle HR functions and real project ownership.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with posting job openings and maintaining accuracy across job boards and internal systems (Paylocity, LinkedIn)
• Support scheduling and coordination for candidate interviews
• Help prepare new hire onboarding materials and assist with Day 1 logistics
• Maintain and organize employee files and HR records, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality
• Support data entry and reporting tasks within the HRIS (Paylocity)
• Assist with compliance tracking (I-9s, required trainings, policy acknowledgments)
• Help coordinate employee engagement activities and internal communications
• Provide general administrative support to the HR team as needed

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Psychology, or a related field (or recent graduate)
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior internship or work experience in an HR or administrative support role
• Familiarity with HRIS platforms (Paylocity or similar)
• Interest in pursuing a career in Human Resources

Why OKSI

• Sit with the HR team, not on the sidelines. You'll work directly with HR leadership on recruiting, onboarding, and compliance projects, and see your work put into practice within weeks, not months.
• Variety every week. From posting requisitions and coordinating interviews to auditing HRIS records and supporting new hire onboarding, no two days look the same.
• Hands-on exposure across the full employee lifecycle, from sourcing candidates through offer letters, and from Day 1 onboarding through policy administration.
• See your work matter fast. Your projects support real hiring decisions and real employees, not shelved assignments built for a portfolio.
• Build next-generation defense technology, one hire at a time. OKSI designs electro-optical and infrared sensor systems, autonomous platforms, and modeling and simulation technology that gives warfighters a decisive edge.
• Direct access to HR leadership. Small team, close mentorship, and real ownership over projects from day one.
• A flexible, supportive environment. Small teams, direct access to leadership, and a culture that expects excellence while sustaining the people who deliver it.
• Professional growth. OKSI is expanding, which means faster-than-typical opportunities to build real HR experience and grow your resume.

Compensation and Benefits

• $20.00 to $25.00 hourly, depending on academic standing and qualifications.
• On-site position at OKSI's Torrance, CA headquarters.

ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here.

We are an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. We provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in the application and hiring process.

This employer participates in E-Verify.