Flight Software Internship - Summer 2027

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and debug embedded C++ software running on spacecraft systems
• Work with hardware interfaces and component datasheets
• Assist in systems integration and testing
• Collaborate with avionics and systems teams to validate software behavior

Requirements

• Proficiency in C++
• Strong understanding of computer architecture and operating systems
• Experience working with embedded systems or microcontrollers (not limited to Arduino)
• Familiarity with Linux environments
• Ability to troubleshoot and debug low-level software issues

Preferred

• Hands-on experience with embedded development outside coursework
• Previous internship or project team experience
• Experience reading and utilizing component datasheets
• Coursework in embedded systems, digital design, or electronics
• Relevant Coursework
• Computer Architecture
• Software Engineering / Computer Science Fundamentals

Data Structures & Algorithms

• (Bonus) Signals and Systems
• (Bonus) Digital Design, Assembly, Embedded Systems, Electronics

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 flight software team is responsible for writing the embedded code that runs onboard Varda’s spacecraft — enabling autonomous control, data handling, and fault protection in space. In this role, you will help develop and test real-time C++ software running on flight computers, directly supporting systems like guidance, navigation, control, power management, and communications. You’ll gain experience working close to the hardware, integrating with sensors, actuators, and avionics to ensure the vehicle performs reliably across all mission phases.

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.

Preferred Skills And Experience

Operating Systems

Compensation

• Hourly Rate: $37.00
• Housing stipend for interns relocating to the area
• Commuter benefit to support local transportation

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

ITAR Requirements

Varda, like all employers, must ensure that its employees working in the United States are lawfully authorized to work in the U.S. Additionally, our employees are exposed to and have access to certain export-controlled items. Because our employees are provided access to export-controlled items, our policy is to only hire “U.S. persons” who are permitted to have access to our technology without an export license.

“US person” means: U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident, or protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) (i.e., individual admitted to the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum).

E-Verify Statement

Varda Space Industries, Inc. participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security E-Verify program. The E-Verify program is an Internet-based employment eligibility verification system operated by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Learn more about the

E-Verify program.

E-Verify Notice Right To Work Notice

Read more

Read more

Varda Space Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, martial status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.