Engineering Intern - Space and Missile Defense

About the role#

Wardstone is building next-generation systems to protect the United States and its allies from advanced missile threats. Interns work directly with founders and full-time engineers on real-world systems, ranging from concept development to field testing. You will contribute to flight hardware and simulations while gaining exposure to the full engineering lifecycle.

What you'll do#

Depending on your background and interests, you may focus on:

• Physics-based simulation and modeling, including orbital mechanics, intercept dynamics, and guidance and control.
• Hardware prototyping and testing across mechanical, electrical, propulsion, and sensing domains.
• Embedded software, controls, or autonomy development.
• Sensor systems, including IR/EO, perception, and tracking.
• Data analysis from test campaigns.
• System-level trade studies and design reviews.

What you'll need#

• Currently pursuing a degree in engineering, physics, or a related technical field such as Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Robotics, or Computer Science.
• Demonstrated delivery on previous extracurricular engineering projects.
• Proficiency in MATLAB or Python for modeling and data analytics.
• A curious, self-directed approach to problem-solving.
• US citizenship is required.
• Bonus points for experience with controls, GNC, orbital mechanics, embedded systems, hardware bring-up, IR sensors, computer vision, signal processing, or hands-on lab and field testing.

Location & details#

• Location: San Francisco, California.
• Modality: On-site.
• Employment: Full-time internship.
• Compensation: Paid.
• Term: Rolling.