Flight Software (C++) Internship - Summer 2026

Vardaspace; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible PTO policy

100% company-paid health insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Daily lunch provided

Dog-friendly office

Job summary

Vardaspace in El Segundo, California, is offering summer internships in flight software development, focusing on embedded C++ code for spacecraft systems. Interns will work full-time on-site from May to August, gaining hands-on experience in a startup atmosphere.

The role includes designing and debugging software while collaborating with experienced aerospace professionals. This opportunity is ideal for students passionate about aerospace and programming seeking to contribute to innovative space projects.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in C++ programming language.
• Strong understanding of computer architecture and operating systems.
• Experience working with embedded systems or microcontrollers.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement embedded C++ software for spacecraft systems.
• Work with hardware interfaces and test components.
• Collaborate with avionics and systems teams.

Skills

Proficiency in C++

Strong understanding of computer architecture

Experience with embedded systems

Familiarity with Linux

Troubleshooting low-level software

Education

Relevant coursework in Computer Architecture and Systems

Tools

Embedded Systems

Job description

About Varda

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.Varda’s W-Series vehicles are built, designed, and operated by Varda in-house, including the pharmaceutical processing payloads, the capsules, the C-PICA heat shields, and the satellite buses.

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.

About This Role

Summer internships will range between the months of May and August. All dates are dependent upon the university schedule of the selected students. Internships are full-time and on-site in Los Angeles, CA.

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 the 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

• 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

Basic Qualifications

• 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 Skills And Experience

• 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

Benefits

Varda offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support health, financial well‑being, and a high‑quality workplace experience. Below is an overview of what full‑time employees receive (at this time, interns receive a subset of benefits):

Health & Wellness

• Flexible PTO policy +12 paid holidays
• 100% company‑paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans for employees and dependents with FSA and employer‑matched HSA options
• Voluntary accident, hospital, critical illness, and pet insurance
• $120/month wellness reimbursement for gym and fitness expenses
• 12 weeks of parental leave (with supplemental disability leave for CA mothers)
• Family building, pregnancy, parenting, and menopause benefits via Maven Clinic
• Sponsored One Medical memberships for employees and their dependents

Financial & Retirement

• Substantial incentive equity in a fully funded space start‑up
• 401(k) retirement plan with 6% employer match (immediately vested)
• $20/pay period cell phone reimbursement
• Relocation supportfor new hires, if needed

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
• Dog‑friendly office space

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.

“U.S. 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.

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, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.