Structures Engineering Internship - Spring 2027
About This Role
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.
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
Be a part of the Varda Structures Team in designing, building, and testing mechanical elements of Varda's in-orbit manufacturing spacecraft or ground support equipment:
Trade new design concepts using first-principles, physics-driven approaches.
Generate CAD models and engineering drawings for hardware that will go to space and back.
Build and test development and flight hardware.
Basic Qualifications
Pursuing a bachelor's or master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Engineering Physics, or similar engineering degrees.
Demonstrated ability to tackle and solve engineering challenges with involvement on technical projects (e.g. Rocket Club, Formula SAE, previous internship or co-op experience, personal projects).
Desire to make your mark in a technically complex and fast-moving environment, with a passion for expanding what we can do in space!
Preferred Skills And Experience
Experience with CAD software (Siemens NX used at Varda).
Experience with finite element analysis (Femap w/ NASTRAN used at Varda).
Experience with machining, using basic equipment such as a mill or lathe.
Experience with Python or other engineering programming languages.
Familiarity with GD&T concepts.
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