Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Internship - Spring 2027
Spring internships will range between the months of January and May. All dates dependent upon the university schedule of the selected students. Internships are full-time and on-site in El Segundo, CA. To be considered for this internship, candidates must be actively enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate degree program.
About This Role
Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) ensures all operations at Varda are performed safely and effectively, without harming the environment. The EHS team is responsible for proactively identifying and mitigating physical, chemical, operational, and other hazards across Varda’s spacecraft and pharmaceutical development and production processes.
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
Lead Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs) across engineering, manufacturing, and pharmaceutical operations to identify risks, develop mitigation strategies, and collaborate with teams to implement effective controls.
Drive safe handling of hazardous chemicals through the Hazard Communication (HazCom) and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) programs
Maintain environmental compliance by guiding departments in the proper accumulation and disposal of hazardous waste
Conduct regular maintenance and inspection of safety systems and equipment (e.g., emergency eyewashes and showers, fire extinguishers, fire alarm and suppression systems)
Assist with emergency preparedness and response procedures (e.g., site emergency action plan, emergency drills, first aid/CPR/AED training)
Basic Qualifications
Currently pursuing a degree in occupational safety & health, environmental engineering/safety, or related field
Strong analytical, communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities independently, in a fast-paced work environment
Preferred Qualifications
Familiarity with local, state, and federal regulatory EHS standards (e.g., Cal/OSHA, Cal/EPA, RCRA, SCAQMD, DOT, CA Fire Code)
Hands-on experience with conducting risk assessments and implementing safety control measures
Prior EHS-related internship or project experience in an engineering or laboratory setting
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