About the role#
Wardstone is building air and missile defense systems for the United States and its allies. We are looking for an MBA Intern to join our team in El Segundo. You will support strategy, finance, operations, and government engagement. This role offers direct exposure to how early-stage defense companies work with government customers. You will work on national security problems with direct mentorship from our founders.
What you'll do#
- Perform financial planning and analysis for defense industrial projects.
- Support engagement with Department of Defense customers, labs, and program offices.
- Prepare briefing materials, whitepapers, and proposals for SBIR, BAA, and RFP opportunities.
- Track and analyze defense programs, budgets, and acquisition pathways.
- Assist with outreach to partners and prime contractors.
- Conduct market and competitive analysis.
- Participate in customer calls, strategy discussions, and project reviews.
- Travel to domestic military bases and conferences as needed.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in an MBA program.
- Bachelor's degree in engineering, policy, economics, business, or a related field.
- Interest in national security, defense acquisition, and emerging technology.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Comfort with ambiguity and changing environments.
- U.S. citizenship is required.
- Prior military service is strongly preferred, particularly with experience in air and missile defense.
- Experience with DoD acquisition processes, government contracting, or defense policy is a plus.
- An engineering background or the ability to engage effectively with engineers is preferred.
- An active security clearance is preferred.
Location & details#
- Location: El Segundo, California.
- Work Modality: On-site.
- Employment Type: Full-time.
- Compensation: $8,000 to $12,000 per month.
About Wardstone (YC F25)
Wardstone is a space defense company based in El Segundo, California. Founded in 2025, the firm employs 10 people. It designs and builds satellites that carry interceptors to counter ballistic and hypersonic missiles. The company focuses on protecting the United States and its allies from space-based threats.
How to get in at Wardstone (YC F25)
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