Engineering Intern - Summer

Engineering Intern - Summer

Summary

This position is working on-site in our Cocoa, Florida location as an Engineering Intern from June 01, 2026, until August 14, 2026, on a part-time basis.

Vaya Space is a privately owned space and defense company headquartered on Florida's Space Coast. We are advancing patented vortex-hybrid engine technology to deliver propulsion systems that meet the highest standards of safety, affordability, and sustainability. In the commercial market, our Dauntless launch vehicle provides reliable and cost-effective access to orbit.
In defense, our hybrid propulsion systems support next-generation tactical, hypersonic, and missile defense applications.

We are looking for interns in multiple engineering disciplines, including aerospace, mechanical, testing, electrical, guidance navigation and control, and systems engineering.

We are a fast-paced, mission-driven team tackling some of the hardest problems in aerospace. Success at Vaya requires personal leadership, strong technical skills, and meticulous attention to detail. Every team member contributes cross disciplines, stepping up where needed to drive innovation forward.
If you want to make an impact and help shape the future of space and defense, Vaya Space is the place to do it.

Travel Required

5%

Required Security Clearance

None (ITAR Eligible)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

(Duties and responsibilities which occupy a major portion of time and importance in the job. Incumbent(s) perform one or more of the following duties.)

• Work in teams and individually in the research, prototype development, and testing (analytical and experimental) of hybrid rocket engines and/or space launch vehicle sub-systems.
• Support hybrid rocket engine component and assembly design.
• Analyze component and engine/component test data and support subsequent data reviews.
• Assist in detailed analysis of launch vehicle sub-systems and individual components and provide recommendations for correction or improvement.
• Support configuration design studies and development of prototype systems.
• Perform other duties as required.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of the rocket engine design cycle including trade studies, design and analysis, production, assembly, test support and data review.
• Demonstrated familiarity with data analysis and data processing.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering standards and technical requirements and apply configuration management procedures.
• Ability to communicate technical information effectively.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to work flexible hours as necessary.
• To comply with U.S. export regulations, such as the International Traffic in Arms Regulations and the Export Administration Regulations you must (a) be a "U.S. Person" as defined under those regulations, which includes U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents of the U.S., and protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or (b) otherwise be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce, as appropriate.

Preferred Skills and Education

• Strong technical fundamentals in the design of space launch vehicles/vehicle subsystems including one or more of the following: propulsion, structures, fluids systems, guidance navigation and control, avionics, power systems, thermodynamics, and/or systems engineering.
• Working knowledge of hybrid rocket engine design and function.
• Familiarity with handling cryogenic liquids a plus.
• Familiar with Solid Works or similar CAD software.
• Familiar with MATLAB or similar software.
• Familiar with Lab View or similar software.