Mechanisms and Payload Internship - Fall 2026

Join VardaSpace as a Mechanical Engineering Intern for Fall 2026 and immerse yourself in a pioneering company at the forefront of space manufacturing. This internship presents a unique opportunity to work alongside seasoned engineers on cutting-edge projects that aim to revolutionize space technology.

Join Varda Space Industries as a Manufacturing Engineering Intern for the Fall 2026 semester! This exciting opportunity allows you to work alongside industry professionals in a dynamic environment focused on space manufacturing technologies. You will gain hands-on experience, contribute to innovative projects, and enhance your engineering skills while working on real-world challenges in the aerospace sector.

Join vardaspace as a Mission Operations Intern for Fall 2026, where you will have the opportunity to engage in groundbreaking space operations and contribute to missions that truly matter. This internship is designed for aspiring professionals who are eager to learn and grow in a fast-paced environment.

Join vardaspace as an Automation & Test Intern for the Fall 2026 semester. This exciting opportunity offers you the chance to work alongside experienced professionals in a dynamic environment, where you will assist in developing and executing automated tests, as well as contribute to enhancing our testing frameworks.

Join vardaspace as a Mission Software Intern this Fall 2026! This is a unique opportunity for aspiring software developers to gain hands-on experience in Python programming while contributing to meaningful projects. You will work closely with experienced professionals, engage in real-world applications, and enhance your coding skills in a collaborative environment.

About VardaLow Earth orbit is open for business. Varda is at the forefront of developing commercial space infrastructure, facilitating everything from in-orbit pharmaceutical manufacturing to economical reentry capsules.We create life-saving pharmaceuticals and advanced fiber optics that can only be produced in space. By pioneering innovation in the orbital economy, Varda is establishing both the products and infrastructure needed for space to directly enhance life on Earth. Our mission is to extend the economic boundaries of humanity.Our talented team, composed of industry veterans from SpaceX, Blue Origin, major pharmaceutical firms, and Silicon Valley, is uniquely positioned to achieve this ambitious goal. Varda was established in January 2021 by Will Bruey and Delian Asparouhov, with considerable support from top-tier investors such as Khosla Ventures, Lux Capital, Founders Fund, Caffeinated Capital, General Catalyst, and Also Capital.Headquartered in El Segundo, California, Varda operates from a state-of-the-art production facility where we design, integrate, and test our vehicles, equipment, and materials. In addition, we maintain offices in Washington, DC, and Huntsville, AL.Join us at Varda and contribute to building a vibrant in-space ecosystem.About This RoleFall internships will take place between August and December. All dates depend on the university schedule of selected candidates. Internships are full-time and on-site.

Join Varda Space Industries as a Propulsion Engineering Intern for the Fall 2026 semester. This exciting internship opportunity will immerse you in the cutting-edge field of propulsion systems, where you will collaborate with a team of experienced engineers and contribute to innovative projects that are pushing the boundaries of space technology.

Join Varda Space as an Aerodynamics & Analysis Intern for Fall 2026 and immerse yourself in a cutting-edge aerospace environment. You will collaborate with a dynamic team of engineers and scientists, contributing to vital projects that push the boundaries of aerodynamics research.

Join Vardaspace as a Vehicle Integration & Test Intern for the Fall 2026 semester! This exciting opportunity allows you to gain hands-on experience in the dynamic field of vehicle systems integration and testing. Collaborate with a team of experts, contribute to innovative projects, and enhance your skills in a fast-paced environment.

Join VardaSpace as a Supply Chain Intern for Fall 2026! This is an exciting opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in the dynamic field of supply chain management. You will work closely with our experienced team to support various supply chain processes, from procurement to logistics.This internship provides a unique chance to apply your academic knowledge in a real-world setting, contribute to innovative projects, and develop valuable skills in the aerospace industry.

Join vardaspace as a Guidance, Navigation & Controls (GNC) Intern for the Fall 2026 semester! This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the aerospace industry, working alongside seasoned professionals on cutting-edge projects that shape the future of space exploration. You will gain hands-on experience, contribute to innovative solutions, and develop your skills in a collaborative environment.

Join Radiant Industries as a Manufacturing Engineer!Radiant Industries is on the lookout for an enthusiastic and driven Manufacturing Engineer who will collaborate closely with our design engineers to drive innovation in the production of intricate mechanisms and structures that are vital to our advanced microreactor technology. As part of our team, you will play a key role in ensuring the reliable, safe, and high-quality delivery of the Kaleidos demonstration unit, set to be tested in 2026 at the Idaho National Laboratory. This project is crucial for evaluating the first new reactor design in over five decades.Key Responsibilities:Collaborate with the team responsible for the manufacturing and inspection processes of critical components and assemblies within the Kaleidos microreactor.Partner with design engineers to create innovative production methods for complex mechanisms and structures.Develop, qualify, and refine manufacturing processes to satisfy all design and business requirements, focusing on safety, quality, efficiency, and timely delivery.Create and implement manufacturing specifications and fabrication instructions.Identify and engage appropriate suppliers for sourcing and fabrication of components.Plan and execute upgrades for capital equipment, machines, and layouts to meet changing production needs.Work with the team to drive continuous improvement initiatives in manufacturing processes and product quality.

Join our innovative team at cx2 as a Manufacturing Engineer specializing in Electronics. In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing electronic manufacturing processes, ensuring high-quality production and efficiency. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement advanced manufacturing techniques that drive operational excellence and product quality.

Senior Manufacturing EngineerJoin Radiant Industries as a Senior Manufacturing Engineer, where you will collaborate with design engineers to revolutionize the production of intricate mechanisms and structures essential to our innovative microreactor technology. Your role will be critical in ensuring the reliability, safety, quality, and timely delivery of the Kaleidos demonstration unit, set for testing at the Idaho National Lab in 2026—marking the first new reactor design in over 50 years.Key Responsibilities:Oversee the manufacturing and inspection processes of vital components and assemblies within the Kaleidos microreactor.Collaborate with design engineers to create innovative production methods for complex mechanisms and structures.Develop, validate, and optimize manufacturing processes to fulfill all design and business requirements, including safety, quality, efficiency, and delivery timelines.Formulate and implement manufacturing specifications and fabrication instructions.Manage the manufacturing bill of materials (mBOM) for components and assemblies.Identify, evaluate, and establish partnerships with suppliers for component sourcing and fabrication.Identify, plan, and execute upgrades to capital equipment, machinery, and layout to adapt to evolving production needs.Lead initiatives that promote continuous improvements in manufacturing processes and product quality.

About VardaLow Earth orbit is now a thriving business frontier. Varda is at the forefront of advancing commercial space infrastructure, focusing on everything from in-orbit pharmaceutical manufacturing to cost-effective reentry capsules.We create groundbreaking products and infrastructure that allow space technology to directly enhance life on Earth. Our mission is to broaden the economic possibilities for humanity.Our exceptional team comprises industry veterans from notable companies such as SpaceX, Blue Origin, and leading pharmaceutical firms. Founded in January 2021 by Will Bruey and Delian Asparouhov, Varda has garnered substantial support from prestigious investors like Khosla Ventures, Lux Capital, Founders Fund, Caffeinated Capital, General Catalyst, and Also Capital.Headquartered in El Segundo, California, Varda operates a production facility where our vehicles, equipment, and materials are constructed, integrated, and tested. We also maintain offices in Washington, DC, and Huntsville, AL.Join us at Varda and contribute to building a vibrant in-space ecosystem.

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.

About VardaThe era of low Earth orbit is here, and Varda is leading the charge. We are pioneering the evolution of commercial space infrastructure, ranging from in-orbit pharmaceutical production to the development of cost-effective reentry capsules.Our groundbreaking work allows for the creation of life-changing products that can only be manufactured in space, enhancing life on Earth. Varda is committed to igniting innovation in the orbital economy by building the products and infrastructure that directly benefit humanity. Our mission is to broaden the economic horizons of mankind.Our team combines a wealth of experience, with leaders and staff sourced from esteemed organizations like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and major pharmaceutical firms, complemented by expertise from Silicon Valley. Founded in January 2021 by Will Bruey and Delian Asparouhov, we are backed by top-tier investors including Khosla Ventures, Lux Capital, and Founders Fund.Headquartered in El Segundo, California, our office and production facility are where we design, integrate, and test our innovative vehicles, equipment, and materials. We also maintain offices in Washington, DC and Huntsville, AL.Join us at Varda and contribute to building a thriving in-space ecosystem. About This RoleAs a Manufacturing Engineer at Varda, you will leverage your expertise to transition manufacturing processes from a handful of custom vehicles to a large number of consistent, simultaneous builds. Your role will be critical in enhancing Varda's manufacturing capabilities.

About Rainmaker Rainmaker develops cloud seeding technology to help address water scarcity and challenging weather conditions. The team works with radar validation, weather-resistant Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), advanced numerical weather modeling, and eco-friendly cloud seeds to build solutions that enhance precipitation. The Engineering Team The Engineering group focuses on improving UAS platforms, dispersion payloads, and both in-situ and remote sensing systems. Team members see the direct impact of their work on Rainmaker’s operations. Role Overview This Electrical Engineering Internship is based in El Segundo, CA. The intern will work closely with the Lead Electrical Engineer, contributing to the design and development of key subsystems for UAS platforms. What You Will Do Rapid Hardware Prototyping: Design and build functional prototypes for UAS subsystems, making iterative improvements based on flight tests and mission requirements. PCB Design: Create schematic diagrams and layouts for systems such as power distribution, sensor interfaces, payload controllers, and communication modules, using tools like Altium or KiCad.

make-rain builds operational software and data platforms to advance weather modification. The team works on tools that process complex, real-world data to support new approaches in this specialized field. Internship overview This Software Engineering Internship is located in El Segundo, CA. The position is intended for students who want to apply technical skills to real data problems and help deliver software that matters. What you will do Collaborate with engineers to design and refine data workflows for telemetry sources, such as in-situ sensors, remote systems, and drones. Assist in developing and maintaining APIs, software packages, and internal operational tools. Convert raw data into reliable products that support the company's mission. Requirements Enrollment in a Computer Science or related degree program. Interest in working with real-world data and building impactful software. Ability to learn quickly, stay curious, and work independently in changing situations. Willingness to relocate to El Segundo, California for the internship. Preferred skills Proficiency in Python and understanding of core software development concepts. Experience with data management, APIs, and SQL databases. Interest in geospatial, atmospheric, or sensor data. Strong debugging skills and ease with various technical systems.