Mechanisms Engineer - Payloads

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 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 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.

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 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.

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.

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 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.

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.