Mechanical Engineering Intern (Summer 2026)

About Us:

Samara Aerospace is revolutionizing satellite design by addressing the challenges of deploying and managing large satellite constellations. Our innovative Hummingbird spacecraft bus offers a modular and scalable platform that streamlines satellite production and deployment, significantly reducing launch costs. Hummingbird's compact architecture maximizes launch capacity, making it the most efficient and agile spacecraft in the industry. At the core of our technology is the patented Multifunctional Structures for Attitude Control (MSAC) system. Unlike traditional wheel-based pointing control systems, MSAC utilizes actuators embedded in the hinges of deployable solar panels to provide 3-axis attitude control and active jitter cancellation. This design eliminates the need for spinning wheels, reducing mass and potential points of failure, while enhancing pointing precision.

Role:

The Mechanical team at Samara is seeking a hands-on Mechanical Engineering Intern to support the design, analysis, build, and testing of next-generation spacecraft at our headquarters in San Francisco. You’ll work closely with experienced mechanical and electrical engineers, gaining exposure to spacecraft structures, mechanisms, solar arrays, ground support equipment, and environmental testing in a fast-paced startup environment.

Samara internships generally last 12 weeks onsite at Samara Headquarters with an hourly rate intended for students currently enrolled at a four-year university. 

Responsibilities: 

• Support the design, analysis, and testing of satellite structures, mechanisms, and solar array components.
• Assist with material selection, component sourcing, CAD modeling, and drawing creation.
• Contribute to assembly, prototyping, and integration of spacecraft hardware.
• Help develop and execute tests such as vibration, thermal vacuum, and functional checks.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (electrical, systems, manufacturing) to ensure successful vehicle integration.
• Participate in improving shop, test, and integration facilities and enhancing operational efficiency.

Qualifications: 

• Pursuing a BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
• Familiarity with CAD software (NX preferred, but any CAD experience welcome).
• Basic understanding of structural or thermal analysis methods.
• Ability to read engineering drawings and communicate technical ideas clearly.
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and desire to learn in a dynamic environment.

Preferred: 

• Experience with prototyping or fabrication tools (machine shop, 3D printing, etc.).
• Familiarity with FEA or thermal analysis tools.
• Hands-on hardware experience and excitement for building things.
• Programming experience (Python or similar).

Why Join Us?

• Be a key player in a groundbreaking aerospace startup
• Work on exciting projects with the potential to revolutionize the satellite industry
• Collaborate with a passionate and driven team

Base Hourly Pay

The base hourly pay for this role is $40/hr