Mechanical Engineering Internship -… at Varda Space… · El Segundo

Summary: Varda Space Industries is a company focused on developing commercial space infrastructure aimed at benefiting life on Earth. The Mechanical Engineering Internship offers students the chance to work on critical spaceflight hardware and ground support systems, contributing to the company's in-space manufacturing and reentry missions in a collaborative team environment. Responsibilities: - Contribute to the design and development of spacecraft hardware or ground support equipment (MGSE) - Support test campaign planning and execution, including test stand design and data analysis - Create CAD models, detailed drawings, and perform basic engineering analysis (FEA, thermal, etc.) - Participate in design reviews and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to meet hardware requirements - Perform hands-on fabrication tasks or support machining operations when needed Required Qualifications: - Currently enrolled in a bachelor's degree program in Engineering or Physics (Mechanical, Aerospace, or related field) - Strong understanding of core engineering concepts, with completed coursework in: Statics, Dynamics, Mechanics of Materials, Thermodynamics or Heat Transfer - Experience using engineering tools such as CAD (e.g., NX), MATLAB, and/or LabVIEW - Proven ability to own and deliver a technically complex project, preferably in a team setting (e.g., FSAE, senior design, rocket team, etc.) - Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to thrive in a team-oriented environment Preferred Qualifications: - Junior or Senior academic standing - Previous internship or co-op experience in a technical role - Experience with fabrication or machining (manual or CNC) - Familiarity with NX, GD&T, Femap/Nastran, or similar engineering tools - Background in space systems, spacecraft structures, or aerospace manufacturing processes - Demonstrated success in technical extracurriculars (e.g., Rocket Club, Formula SAE, etc.) Required Skills: CAD software e.g., CAD software NX, Engineering analysis FEA, Engineering analysis thermal, Core engineering concepts Important Skills: MATLAB, LabVIEW, Fabrication, machining Internship Start Date: Start in 2026 Fall Benefits: Housing stipend for interns relocating to the area, Commuter benefit to support local transportation, Exciting team of professionals at the top of their field working by your side, Equity in a fully funded space startup with potential for significant growth (interns excluded), 401(k) matching (interns excluded), Unlimited PTO (interns excluded), Health insurance, including Vision and Dental, Lunch and snacks provided on site every day., Dinners provided twice a week., Maternity / Paternity leave (interns excluded)