Flight Software Internship - Summer 2027
About The Position
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.
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
- Actively enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate degree program
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
- Relevant Coursework: Computer Architecture, Operating Systems, Software Engineering / Computer Science Fundamentals, Data Structures & Algorithms
- (Bonus) Signals and Systems
- (Bonus) Digital Design, Assembly, Embedded Systems, 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
- Hourly Rate: $37.00
- Housing stipend for interns relocating to the area
- Commuter benefit to support local transportation
- 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
- $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
- 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
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
Associate degree
