Flight Software (C++) Internship - Fall 2026
About The Position
Low Earth orbit is open for business. Varda is accelerating the development of commercial space infrastructure, from in-orbit pharmaceutical processing to reliable and economical reentry capsules. From life-saving pharmaceuticals to more powerful fiber optics, there is a world of products used on Earth today that can only be manufactured in space. Varda is accelerating innovation in the orbital economy by creating both the products and infrastructure needed so space can directly benefit life on Earth. Our mission is to expand the economic bounds of humankind. Our team is uniquely suited to accomplishing this goal, with leadership and staff comprised of veterans from SpaceX, Blue Origin, major pharmaceutical companies and Silicon Valley. Varda was founded in January 2021 by Will Bruey and Delian Asparouhov with significant backing from world class investors including Khosla Ventures, Lux Capital, Founders Fund, Caffeinated Capital, General Catalyst, and Also Capital. Varda is headquartered in El Segundo, California, where we have offices and a production facility where our vehicles, equipment, and materials are built, integrated, and tested. Varda also has offices in Washington, DC and Huntsville, AL. Join Varda, and work to create a bustling in-space ecosystem. Fall internships will range between the months of August and December. 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.
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
Nice To Haves
- 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
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
Benefits
- Exciting team of professionals at the top of their field working by your side
- Health insurance, including Vision and Dental
- Lunch and snacks provided on site every day. Dinners provided twice a week.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
No Education Listed
Number of Employees
11-50 employees
