Summer 2026 Production Engineering Intern

Astrolab

Posted 13 days ago

Internship

Hawthorne, California

In Person

Smart Summary

The intern will assist with the fabrication, assembly, and testing of avionics, structures, and electromechanical components for planetary rovers. They will also contribute to process improvements, systems integration, and failure analysis while collaborating with cross-disciplinary teams.

Astrolab is seeking interns with a STEM-related degree and at least 3 months of applied engineering experience. Strong problem-solving skills, proficiency in programming languages like C++ or Python, and a passion for space technology are highly desired. This internship offers hands-on experience in production engineering and collaboration with cross-disciplinary teams.

Must Have Skills for ATS

Mechanical engineering

Electrical engineering

Manufacturing engineering

Aerospace engineering

C++

Python

Software development

Robotics

Troubleshooting

Process improvement

Avionics

Systems integration

Failure analysis

Technical documentation

Teamwork

Project management

Job Description

Summer 2026 Production Engineering Intern

Department: Internships

Employment Type: Internship

Location: Hawthorne, California

Compensation: $30.00 / hour



Description

Venturi Astrolab, Inc. (Astrolab) is pioneering new ways to explore and operate on distant planetary bodies. We are singularly focused on designing, building, and operating a fleet of multi-purpose commercial planetary rovers to extend and enhance humanity’s presence in the solar system. We are seeking motivated, creative, and exceptional people to join our world-class team.   

We seek motivated, creative, and exceptional individuals to join our world-class team. As an intern, you’ll gain hands-on experience and work alongside talented engineers to support the development of lunar rovers and production processes. This program will provide exposure to advanced manufacturing and testing processes, mentorship from experienced engineers, and opportunities to develop practical skills in troubleshooting, process improvement, and teamwork. 

Opportunities: 
  1. Avionics Manufacturing Engineering 
  2. Structures and Mechanisms Manufacturing Engineering 
  3. Vehicle Integration and Test Engineering 
  4. Quality Engineering


What you'll do:

  • Production: Assist with the fabrication, assembly, and testing of avionics systems, structures, mechanisms, and electromechanical components 
  • Systems Integration: Support integration efforts for rover subassemblies and fully integrated systems 
  • Process Improvement: Contribute to the development of tooling, work instructions, and process documentation, with an emphasis on improving manufacturability and enhancing vehicle reliability 
  • Failure Analysis: Help troubleshoot and resolve technical issues during assembly and testing 
  • Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams (e.g., engineers, technicians, and managers) to ensure efficient and accurate production 
  • Vehicle Testing: Participate in vehicle testing activities, both on-site and in specialized facilities 


What you'll bring:

  • Education: Currently pursuing or recently graduated with a STEM-related degree (e.g., Mechanical, Electrical, Manufacturing, or Aerospace Engineering) 
  • Experience: At least 3 months of applied engineering experience outside of the classroom, including research, extracurricular project teams, personal projects, or prior internship/work experience
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Python, or similar general-purpose programming languages 
  • Experience developing and testing software for engineering applications (e.g. robotics, rockets, electric vehicles, UAVs, or similar) 
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment 
  • Passion for space technology and a keen interest in software development, robotics and vehicles
Additional Requirements:
Able to work full time and on-site for a minimum of 12 weeks beginning in May or June 2026

Benefits and Perks

  • Work with a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration
  • On-site snacks, beverages, and 2x weekly lunches
  • Competitive internship salary 

Astrolab

Venturi Astrolab, Inc. (Astrolab) is pioneering new ways to explore and operate on distant planetary bodies. We are singularly focused on designing, building and operating a fleet of multi-purpose commercial planetary rovers to extend and enhance humanity’s presence in the solar system. Headquartered in Hawthorne, California, we are an American-owned and American-operated small business. Our team has more than five decades of experience in terrestrial and planetary robotics, electric vehicles, human spaceflight, and human intelligence field operations. Our stellar team, strategic partnerships with cutting-edge companies and institutions combine with our world-class manufacturing, integration and test facility will enable the delivery of lunar and Mars mobility solutions at maximum reliability, flexibility and cost effectiveness. Having a strong, diverse, and inspired team is essential to accomplishing our bold mission. Employees are our biggest asset, and we are deeply committed to them and our values. At Astrolab we… Demonstrate and inspire trust. Interactions are direct, honest, and respectful. We are fair and transparent with what we do and why. Thrive in balance. Balance gives us perspective and keeps us motivated and inspired. We commit to rewarding work and a fulfilling personal life. Seek diverse perspectives. We ask questions, engage in productive debate and offer alternatives to ensure our solutions and products are robust and a reflection of our collective best. Move with purpose. Quality and reliability are accomplished through efficient ideation and iteration. We act with a sense of urgency and deliver what we promise, always with the big picture in mind. Make an impact. We intentionally move our community and industry into the future through our work, practices, and actions. Check out our website for current openings and help us drive the future of planetary exploration & development!

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