Aerodynamics & Analysis Engineering Internship - Summer 2027
About This Role
Summer internships will range between the months of May and August. All dates dependent upon the university schedule of the selected students. Internships are full-time and on-site in Los Angeles, CA. To be considered for this internship, candidates must be actively enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate degree program.
The aerodynamic department is responsible for all aerodynamic and aero-heating analysis for all our flight vehicles in all flight regimes. Varda already has a flight-proven vehicle; however, this summer we will work on extending our vehicle payload capabilities for commercial customers and flight test capabilities for hypersonic testbed customers. The occupant of this role will contribute by running simulations and supporting wind tunnel activities that would help improve the capabilities of Varda vehicles!
Internships at Varda are optimal for students looking to grow technically and professionally while working on impactful projects critical to the company’s success. You will be working on a collaborative team in a startup environment while being able to learn from some of most accomplished and experienced aerospace professionals in the world. We’re dedicated to providing an experience that will let your decisions and contributions help drive Varda’s success.
Responsibilities
Run Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to analyze vehicle performance
Support wind tunnel testing campaigns and post-processing of data
Collaborate with engineers to assess aerodynamic loads and thermal environments
Contribute to vehicle design improvements based on simulation and test data
Basic Qualifications
Coursework in:
Compressible Fluid Mechanics
Thermodynamics
Numerical Methods
Programming in Python and/or MATLAB
Experience with:
Running CFD tools
Using Linux-based systems
Programming in Python and/or MATLAB
Preferred Skills And Experience
Currently pursuing or completed a Master’s degree in Aerodynamics or Numerical Methods
Experience running CFD or DSMC
Familiar with Tecplot and Pointwise
Some graduate school experience in aerodynamics or fluid mechanics
Some past experience on an aerodynamics or fluid mechanics project or club
Compensation
Hourly Rate: $33.00
Housing stipend for interns relocating to the area
Commuter benefit to support local transportation
Benefits for Interns
Health & Wellness
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
Financial
$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
Workplace Experience & Perks
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