Mechanical Engineering Internship - Fall 2026

Join Varda Space Industries as a Mechanisms Engineer specializing in Payloads, where you will play a crucial role in the design and development of advanced mechanisms for our space systems. Your expertise will drive innovation and ensure the successful deployment of payloads in the ever-evolving landscape of space exploration.

Role Overview Varda Space Industries is hiring a Senior Mechanisms Engineer focused on payload systems in El Segundo, California. This role leads the design, development, and testing of mechanisms that enable advanced payloads for space applications. What You Will Do Design, develop, and test mechanisms that support complex payloads Work closely with multidisciplinary teams to integrate mechanical systems Help ensure payload mechanisms meet quality and performance requirements

Varda Space Industries builds commercial space infrastructure, including in-orbit pharmaceutical manufacturing and reentry capsules designed for cost efficiency. The company specializes in products enabled by microgravity, such as advanced fiber optics and pharmaceuticals, aiming to bring the benefits of space manufacturing to people on Earth. Founded in 2021 by Will Bruey and Delian Asparouhov, Varda’s team draws on backgrounds from SpaceX, Blue Origin, major pharmaceutical firms, and Silicon Valley. The company is supported by Khosla Ventures, Lux Capital, and Founders Fund. Headquarters and production are based in El Segundo, California, with offices in Washington, DC, and Huntsville, Alabama. Role overview The Lead Principal Mechanisms Engineer for Payloads leads the design and development of complex electromechanical flight hardware. This hardware must operate reliably in orbit, withstand hypersonic reentry, and return to Earth for further analysis and development. This position shapes the payload architecture for missions focused on pharmaceutical manufacturing and hypersonic reentry testbeds. The engineer guides projects from initial concept through detailed design, ensuring mission requirements are met throughout each stage.

Role overview The Director of Mechanisms Engineering at Varda Space Industries will guide the design and development of mechanical systems for pharmaceutical payloads. This position requires leadership in advancing mechanical solutions within an aerospace environment, with a focus on supporting pharmaceutical manufacturing and research in space. What you will do Lead and mentor engineering teams dedicated to mechanisms for pharmaceutical payloads Oversee the integration of advanced mechanical systems into payload designs Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to support project delivery and achieve technical objectives Location This role is based in El Segundo, California, United States.

Join Varda Space Industries as a Mechanisms and Payload Intern for the Fall 2026 session. This unique opportunity allows you to work on cutting-edge aerospace technology, contributing to the development of innovative space solutions. You will collaborate with our dynamic engineering team, engaging in hands-on projects that advance our mission to revolutionize space manufacturing.

Senior Mechanisms EngineerRadiant Industries is on the lookout for a dynamic and experienced Senior Mechanisms Engineer to spearhead the design and development of essential mechanisms within the innovative Kaleidos project. In this role, you will tackle unique engineering challenges to create efficient and dependable mechanisms that govern reactivity and activate critical safety features. Your responsibilities will encompass trade studies, material selection, in-depth structural analysis, assembly, integration, and rigorous testing. Your contributions will be vital in propelling the introduction of the first new commercial reactor design in over five decades by the year 2026.Key Responsibilities:Lead the design and development of crucial mechanisms such as control blade actuators and air jacket valves.Conduct comprehensive trade studies and formulate designs that align with program requirements.Execute detailed thermomechanical analysis (including static strength and durability/fatigue) and kinematic analysis to assess structural integrity and performance margins using both hand calculations and finite element analysis tools.Develop and implement manufacturing and assembly instructions along with test plans.Create and oversee a Bill of Materials (BOM).Identify and cultivate relationships with suppliers for necessary components.Manage schedules for subassembly design, manufacturing, and testing.Conduct risk analysis (FMEA) for subsystems.Gather requirements and provide insights to engineers across other functional areas through effective communication.Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aeronautical Engineering from an accredited institution.A minimum of 4 years of experience in mechanism design.Over 4 years of experience conducting stress analysis utilizing both hand calculations and finite element tools (such as Abaqus, Ansys, FEMAP, or equivalent).Desired Skills:Proficient in the design of multi-component assemblies using CAD software (NX or similar).Experience in designing hardware that underwent manufacturing, deployment, and iterative improvements.Familiarity with pneumatic system design.Knowledge in integrating electromechanical components such as motors or encoders.

About Radiant IndustriesRadiant Industries, headquartered in El Segundo, CA, is pioneering the development of the world’s first mass-produced portable nuclear microreactors. Our flagship reactor, Kaleidos, is a 1-megawatt, fail-safe microreactor designed for mobility, capable of providing power for up to five years without the need for refueling. This innovative technology serves as a sustainable alternative to diesel generators, delivering essential power to hospitals, data centers, remote sites, and military bases. Leveraging modern software engineering and advanced materials, we aim to revolutionize nuclear energy. Founded in 2020, we are poised to test our inaugural reactor at the Idaho National Laboratory in the coming year, with commercial deployments targeted for 2028.About the RoleWe are looking for a dynamic and driven early-career Mechanical Engineer to join our team and contribute to the design and integration of electrical systems within our innovative projects. In this role, you will collaborate with seasoned mechanical and electrical engineers to tackle complex challenges related to packaging, thermal management, structural design, and overall system integration for cutting-edge hardware. This position offers a unique opportunity for hands-on experience throughout the entire hardware development process, from CAD design and analysis to testing and validation, all while supporting our mission to successfully launch the first commercial nuclear reactor in over five decades by 2026.Responsibilities & DutiesContribute to the mechanical design and oversight of electrical components and subsystems, including:Designing mechanical assemblies for electrical components such as control panels, enclosures, brackets, mounts, and supports.Routing and securing cables and wiring harnesses, ensuring strain relief, compliance with bend radius, and serviceability.Integrating sensors, actuators, connectors, and electrical hardware within limited spaces.Creating 3D CAD models and 2D drawings using Siemens NX, including tolerance stack-ups and GD&T fundamentals.Conducting initial load calculations (static, shock, vibration) to guide structural design.Performing thermal analyses and heat transfer evaluations for electrical components and assemblies.Assisting in the selection of suitable materials, fasteners, and finishes based on electrical, thermal, and environmental considerations.

Senior Mechanical Engineer – Turbomachinery RotordynamicsRadiant Industries is on the lookout for a dynamic and experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer to join our innovative team. This pivotal role focuses on the power generation and primary cooling turbomachinery linked to our advanced Kaleidos product. As a key contributor, you will conduct thorough rotordynamic analyses and select appropriate bearings for high-speed rotating machinery, which includes compressors, turbines, and pumps designed for high-temperature applications. The ideal candidate will possess a robust background in rotordynamics and bearing selection, complemented by practical experience in hardware testing.Responsibilities:Design, construct, and evaluate turbomachinery for Radiant’s power generation systems.Conduct dynamic analyses of rotor-bearing systems to assess vibrational behavior, stability, and resonance attributes.Perform critical speed and Campbell diagram analyses, alongside stability assessments, to enhance rotor system designs for reduced vibration and resonance.Examine rotor response during transient operating conditions, including startups, shutdowns, and off-design operations.Select suitable bearing types (e.g., rolling element, fluid film, magnetic) based on operating conditions and performance needs. Assess bearing loads, lifespan, and thermal efficiency.Compile technical reports, design documentation, and presentation materials.Assist in the assembly and testing of prototypes, initial articles, and production hardware.Required Qualifications:Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.A minimum of 5 years’ experience in designing and analyzing turbomachinery, rotating equipment, or mechanisms.Solid grasp of rotordynamic principles and relevant tools (e.g., XLrotor, Dyrobes, or equivalent).Exceptional problem-solving, technical communication, and organizational skills.Desired Qualifications:Experience in power generation applications.Expertise in bearing selection for high-temperature, high-speed applications.Practical experience with turbomachinery testing and instrumentation.

Radiant Industries is seeking a Mechanical Engineer focused on electric motor design to join the team developing an advanced alternator for a nuclear-driven, high-speed power generation system. This entry-level position is designed for recent graduates who want hands-on experience with high-voltage electric motors and generators. The role is fully on-site at the El Segundo, CA headquarters. What you will do Design and analyze generator components used in high-speed power systems. Create detailed 3D models and 2D fabrication drawings using CAD and NX software. Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams, including turbomachinery specialists, to develop systems that convert mechanical energy to electrical energy. Communicate with vendors to source parts for generator construction. Carry out bench, dynamic, and system testing on subsystem components and models. Participate in hands-on assembly, rapid prototyping, and integration of electric motors and generators. Support efforts to commercialize mass-produced nuclear reactors that deliver clean energy to remote locations and essential infrastructure. Requirements Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on electric motors. Solid understanding of permanent magnet electric motors. Practical experience in electric motor design, manufacturing, and assembly processes. Preferred qualifications Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering specializing in electric motors. Knowledge of motor control systems, including Space Vector Modulation (SVM). Experience working with teams in turbomachinery, power electronics, thermal, packaging, or software engineering. Additional requirements Willingness to work extended hours and weekends as needed. This position requires 100% on-site presence in El Segundo, CA.

CX2 is a pioneering defense technology firm dedicated to providing spectrum superiority for the United States and its allies. Our AI-driven hardware and software solutions are designed to detect, disrupt, and safeguard the electromagnetic spectrum across diverse domains including land, air, sea, and space.We are in search of a proactive and creative Manufacturing Engineer who is eager to lead manufacturing initiatives and drive process enhancements. This role encompasses the entire lifecycle from Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and commissioning to manufacturing ramp-up, testing, and validation. The ideal candidate will possess a robust engineering background coupled with practical experience in both mechanical and electronic assembly production.Process Innovation- Innovate, develop, and implement processes and enhancements for new and existing products.- Assess production workflows to pinpoint improvement opportunities aimed at decreasing waste, costs, and downtime.- Create and maintain process parameters, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and quality control standards.Drone Production Support- Collaborate closely with engineering and production teams to troubleshoot issues pertaining to electromechanical assemblies and validations, including mechanical assemblies, CNC machined components, carbon fiber layup, final assembly, and unit testing.- Provide ongoing production support for drone manufacturing.- Guide and mentor technicians and engineers in adhering to best engineering practices to fulfill AS9100D and ISO9001 defense manufacturing standards.- Offer technical assistance during new product introductions (NPI) and engineering change implementations.Tooling & Equipment- Specify and design tools, jigs, and fixtures to enhance assembly and manufacturing efficiency.- Oversee the procurement and validation of new equipment, including Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT).Cross-functional Collaboration- Work collaboratively with R&D, Product Design, Quality Assurance, and Supply Chain teams to ensure manufacturability and scalability of products.- Engage in Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA) reviews during product development.- Coordinate with vendors and contract manufacturers to optimize production capabilities.

Senior Mechanical Engineer - Fluid SystemsRadiant Industries is on the lookout for an enthusiastic and experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer specializing in Fluid Systems. This pivotal role involves overseeing the design and development of critical Kaleidos fluid systems, guiding projects from initial design to production. These systems are essential for converting reactor core heat into electrical power.As a key member of our engineering team, you'll engage in trade studies, component selection, thermal hydraulic analysis, piping design, vendor evaluation, assembly, and rigorous testing. Your contributions will play a vital role in launching the first new commercial reactor design in over 50 years by 2026.Responsibilities:Lead the engineering process for fluid systems and components, including compressors, valves, and heat exchangers.Conduct complex thermal and fluid analyses to inform design choices, validate system performance, and maintain structural integrity using hand calculations and finite element analysis tools.Perform trade studies to enhance system performance and fulfill program requirements.Create and implement manufacturing and assembly instructions along with test plans.Manage and maintain a comprehensive Bill of Materials (BOM).Identify and cultivate relationships with suppliers for all components.Oversee the design, manufacturing, and testing schedules for subassemblies.Conduct risk analysis (FMEA) for subsystems.Gather requirements and provide guidance and constructive feedback to engineers across various disciplines.Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Materials, Aeronautical, Civil, or Structural Engineering from an accredited institution.Proven experience in fluid system architecture design.A minimum of 4 years of experience in designing, building, and testing fluid systems.In-depth knowledge of fluid dynamics and thermodynamics.Solid understanding of heat exchanger design and analysis techniques.

Radiant Industries is on the forefront of innovative engineering solutions, and we are looking for a highly skilled Senior Mechanical Engineer (Structures) to join our team. In this pivotal role, you will design and develop critical structural components within our Kaleidos project, tackling unique challenges to create efficient and reliable structures that can withstand extreme temperature environments and adhere to volumetric constraints.As a Senior Mechanical Engineer, you will play a crucial role in the advancement of the first new commercial reactor design in over 50 years, set to launch by 2026. Your responsibilities will include conducting trade studies, material selection, detailed structural analysis, assembly, integration, and testing.

Rainmaker builds cloud seeding technology aimed at tackling water scarcity and unpredictable weather. The company’s approach brings together radar validation, weather-hardened unmanned aerial systems (UAS), advanced weather modeling, and environmentally friendly cloud seeding materials to form a full precipitation enhancement system. The Mechanical Engineering Intern will join the engineering team in El Segundo, CA. This position works hands-on with UAS, payload dispersion systems, and both in-situ and remote sensing equipment. Reporting to the Lead Mechanical Engineer, the intern will help develop essential subsystems for Rainmaker’s UAS platform, directly supporting operational and mission objectives. What you will do Hardware prototyping: Design and build working prototypes for UAS subsystems. Update and refine designs based on results from flight tests and mission requirements. Test fixture design: Assist in conceptualizing, designing, building, and running test fixtures to evaluate prototype components. Finite Element Analysis (FEA): Collaborate with mechanical engineers to define loading and boundary conditions, set up and run FEA studies, and confirm results. Documentation: Prepare technical documentation and generate fabrication and assembly data for manufacturing partners. Collaboration: Work with electrical and software engineers, along with other team members, to deliver integrated solutions.

Location: El Segundo, CA | Department: Engineering | Employment Type: Intern-Fulltime Onsite | Start: ImmediateJoin Rainmaker as we revolutionize cloud seeding technology to combat water scarcity and adverse weather conditions. Our team integrates cutting-edge radar validation, durable unmanned aerial systems (UAS), advanced numerical weather modeling, and eco-friendly cloud seeding materials to deliver impactful precipitation enhancement solutions.As an intern within our Engineering team, you will engage with innovative projects related to our UAS, payload dispersion systems, and both in-situ and remote sensing technologies. This is a remarkable opportunity for you to thrive in a dynamic environment where your contributions will have a direct influence on our operational achievements. In this role, you will work closely with the Lead Mechanical Engineer and assist in developing critical subsystems for our UAS platform, enabling you to gain hands-on experience and insight into the engineering processes that drive our mission.

Radiant Industries is on the lookout for an experienced and passionate Senior Mechanical Engineer specializing in sheet metal structures. In this pivotal role, you will be instrumental in designing and developing essential structures within our innovative Kaleidos project. Your expertise will address unique challenges while creating efficient and reliable structures capable of facilitating fission in extreme temperature environments and adhering to strict volumetric constraints.As a Senior Mechanical Engineer, you will lead trade studies, select materials, and conduct detailed structural analyses, including assembly, integration, and testing. Your contributions will significantly impact the development of the first new commercial reactor design in over 50 years, scheduled for completion by 2026.

Join Radiant Industries as a Mechanical Engineer specializing in Fluid SystemsWe are on the lookout for a dynamic Mechanical Engineer to take the helm of our Kaleidos fluid systems, guiding them from initial design through to production. This role involves working with critical subsystems, including the primary loop and power conversion loop, which play a pivotal role in transforming reactor core heat into electrical power. Your expertise will be crucial in shaping the future of commercial reactor design, aiming for the first new design in over 50 years by 2026.Key Responsibilities:Lead the engineering of fluid systems and components, such as compressors, valves, and heat exchangers.Conduct advanced thermal and fluid analysis to inform design choices, validate system performance, and maintain structural integrity through first-principle calculations and finite element analysis.Perform trade studies to enhance system efficiency and meet project specifications.Create and implement manufacturing/assembly instructions and testing protocols.Develop and maintain a comprehensive Bill of Materials (BOM).Source and cultivate relationships with suppliers for all components.Oversee design, manufacturing, and testing schedules for subassemblies.Conduct risk assessments (FMEA) for subsystems.Gather requirements and provide constructive feedback to cross-functional engineering teams through effective communication.

Join Radiant Industries as a passionate and driven Mechanical Engineer in Fluid Systems - 2026 New Graduate within our KDU Engineering team. You will play a pivotal role in the design, assembly, and testing of the Kaleidos Development Unit (KDU) – marking the United States’ first new fueled reactor design in over half a century. This is your chance to take ownership of significant projects that drive KDU’s readiness for fueled operations while collaborating with a diverse team of engineers.Key ResponsibilitiesParticipate actively in the design, analysis, and testing of fluid subsystems for the KDU.Take full ownership of deliverables from initial concept through to build and validation, with mentorship from senior engineers.Work collaboratively across disciplines to integrate designs and solve technical challenges.Assist in system-level testing, troubleshooting, and iterative design processes to expedite KDU development.Effectively communicate results through design reviews, technical reports, and presentations to team members and leadership.Required Skills and QualificationsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field (completed or expected by Spring 2026).Strong grounding in engineering fundamentals, particularly in thermodynamics and fluid mechanics.Hands-on experience in design and construction through projects, research, lab work, or internships.Proficiency with engineering tools such as CAD, analysis software, and laboratory instrumentation.Preferred Skills and QualificationsMaster's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline (completed or currently pursuing).Relevant internship, co-op, or project experience pertaining to fluid systems.Ability to independently tackle complex engineering challenges and proactively seek resources.Adept at thriving in a dynamic, startup environment with a collaborative, mission-oriented approach.Genuine enthusiasm for Radiant’s mission to swiftly deploy nuclear microreactors in remote areas requiring sustainable, clean energy.Familiarity with reactor physics is advantageous but not mandatory.Additional InformationThis position is located on-site at Radiant’s headquarters in El Segundo, California.

Rainmaker develops cloud seeding systems designed to address water scarcity and complex weather patterns. The team integrates radar validation, durable unmanned aerial systems (UAS), numerical weather modeling, and environmentally conscious cloud seeds to create a full solution for precipitation enhancement. The Senior Aero-Mechanical Engineer position is based in El Segundo, CA, within the Engineering division. Projects include work on UAS platforms, payload dispersion systems, and both in-situ and remote sensing technologies. The environment encourages technical initiative and offers the chance to directly influence operational capabilities. Role overview Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and refine aerodynamic configurations for aircraft operating in demanding weather conditions. Conduct computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to assess aerodynamic performance and behavior. Design, optimize, and review vehicle layouts to meet various operational requirements and endurance targets. Participate in wind tunnel testing and interpret data to validate CFD predictions. Support the creation and implementation of new aerodynamic methods. Work with other engineering disciplines to ensure aerodynamic designs are practical for manufacturing and can progress from concept to prototype.

Role OverviewRadiant Industries is on the lookout for a skilled Loads & Dynamics Engineer to lead and conduct structural loads, vibration, and dynamic analyses for intricate mechanical systems associated with Kaleidos, the world's first portable microreactor and its supporting hardware. In this pivotal role, you will ensure the structural integrity and durability throughout the product lifecycle, covering all aspects from manufacturing to deployment and operational environments.This position requires a proactive engineer who thrives in fast-paced, ambiguous settings and collaborates effectively with teams in structures, mechanical design, thermal, nuclear, and testing disciplines.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and manage static, dynamic, and transient load analysis for reactor systems, support structures, and transport configurations.Conduct structural dynamics analyses, including modal, random vibration, shock, sine vibration, and fatigue assessments.Implement explicit dynamics simulations to model nonlinear reactor responses during transient seismic and transportation events.Define and analyze transportation and handling environments, addressing shock and vibration from road, rail, air, or sea transport.Generate load cases and environments to support structural sizing, design margins, and verification plans.Conduct finite element analyses (FEA) using tools such as ANSYS and Abaqus.Work collaboratively with design engineers to influence hardware architecture, material selection, and joint design.Assist in test planning and correlation, including shaker tests, modal surveys, and structural verification testing.Create and maintain analysis documentation, reports, and requirements for internal reviews and regulatory interfaces.Contribute to failure investigations, root cause analyses, and design enhancements.Help establish best practices for loads, dynamics, and structural verification within a growing engineering organization.