Mechanisms & Payload Internship - Summer 2027

The role

You will own or contribute to hardware or software design to support spacecraft or payload development. You will create or support test campaigns, build test stands, and perform necessary analysis.

What you will do

• Own or contribute to hardware or software design to support development of Spacecraft or payload
• Create or support test campaigns and build test stands
• Perform necessary analysis to support development and testing

Required qualifications

• Experience with mechanical CAD
• Experience designing, building, and/or operating electromechanical hardware (motors, sensors, linkages, gearboxes, solenoids, etc.)
• Basic programming skills in at least one language
• Comfort using common hand tools and interest in learning how to use machine tools to fabricate parts (e.g., drill press, lathe, mill, etc.)
• Pursuing a bachelor's or master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineer, or Electrical Engineering (or similar engineering deg

Nice to have

• NX preferred
• python preferred
• Previous internship or co-op experience
• Previous experience on technical project teams (i.e. Rocket club, formula SAE, etc.)

Benefits

• Housing stipend for interns relocating to the area
• Commuter benefit to support local transportation
• Paid observed holidays
• 100% company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans for employees and dependents with FSA and employer-matched HSA options
• $120/month wellness reimbursement for gym and fitness expenses
• Sponsored One Medical memberships for employees and their dependents
• $20/pay period cell phone reimbursement
• Up to $4,000 gross up in relocation support, if eligible
• Up to $850 commute credit through Lyft or car rental reimbursement, if eligible
• Fully stocked kitchen with lunch provided daily and dinner provided twice weekly
• Company and team-bonding events, happy hours and mission-success celebrations
• Complimentary EV charging

Before you apply

• Must be actively enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate degree program
• Must be a U.S. person (U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident, or protected individual)

About the company

Varda is accelerating the development of commercial space infrastructure, from in-orbit pharmaceutical processing to reliable and economical reentry capsules. The company is headquartered in El Segundo, California.