Mechanical Engineering Intern

About Capella an IonQ company

Capella an IonQ company builds trusted space systems that deliver secure rapid and actionable Earth intelligence to amplify decision-making for allied partners. As the first U.S. company to launch and operate a commercial Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) constellation Capella provides precise high-resolution radar imagery in any conditionday or night through clouds smoke and darkness. Capella is defining the future of space-based intelligence through a vertically integrated approach that spans spacecraft design advanced radar payloads manufacturing automated tasking and low-latency delivery of mission-ready data. Capella designs for the realities of modern defense and intelligence: speed sovereignty and resilience. Powered by IonQ Capella is creating the worlds first quantum-enabled Earth observation networktransforming how intelligence is delivered through innovation speed and trust. This next-generation architecture will provide governments and global partners with a decisive edge: the ability to see decide and act with confidence in any environment.

What Makes Capella Unique

Capella an IonQ company spans national security advanced sensing and next-generation compute to deliver secure mission-ready intelligence. Capellas culture is built on collaboration rigorous engineering and a shared commitment to delivering solutions that strengthens global stability and security. Team members work side-by-side with some of the most innovative minds in space systems quantum-enabled technologies and mission-critical operations. Capella values curiosity resilience and a willingness to tackle hard problems with precision and creativity. Capella welcomes and encourages applicants whose perspectives are historically underrepresented in technology national security and aerospace. No prior space experience is required. Diverse viewpoints strengthen Capellas ability to innovate and to deliver meaningful impact for partners worldwide.

Capella Internship Program

Capellas 10-week in-person internship program (June 8August 14 2026) gives students hands-on experience in spacecraft development operations and geospatial technology. Interns work directly on meaningful projects while building technical skills industry insight and professional connections. The program includes mentorship team engagement and social events that support a balanced and collaborative experience. A stipend is provided to help with living expenses.

About the Role and Team

The Mechanical Engineering team is responsible for designing and building the spacecrafts prototypes and fixtures at Capella. We are responsible for the full design life cycling starting from: requirement definition concept development analysis to validate design drawings for production assembling prototypes and flight articles all the way to launch delivery. Team members will get to perform a variety of exciting tasks throughout the life cycle of the project.

We are seeking a motivated Mechanical Engineering Intern to join our engineering this role you will contribute to the design analysis testing and integration of mechanical and aerospace hardware used in our SAR spacecrafts and ground systems. Youll work closely with experienced engineers and gain hands-on exposure to the full lifecycle of spacecraft hardware development.

Role Responsibilities

• Support the design and development of mechanical components assemblies and tooling for satellite subsystems.
• Perform CAD modeling drafting and documentation using SolidWorks.
• Assist with structural thermal and vibration analyses under engineer supervision.
• Participate in prototype fabrication assembly and testing activities in lab and cleanroom environments.
• Conduct engineering tests gather data and prepare technical reports or presentations.
• Contribute to design reviews trade studies and design-for-manufacturability efforts.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Systems Thermal Electrical Manufacturing etc.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelors or Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
• Foundational knowledge of mechanical design materials and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with CAD modeling software (SolidWorks NX Fusion 360 etc.).
• Strong problem-solving skills and willingness to learn in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Currently attending a degree program and available to work full time for 10 weeks outside of university term time.
• In their penultimate academic year or returning to a degree program after completion of the internship.
• To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) Capella Employees must be a U.S. citizen lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder) or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce as applicable. Learn more about ITARhere.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiar with Solidworks.
• Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) tools (e.g. NASTRAN ANSYS).
• Familiarity with GD&T and engineering drawing standards.
• Hands-on experience with machining 3D printing or hardware prototyping.
• Exposure to spacecraft systems robotics or precision mechanical systems.
• Interest in small satellites aerospace hardware or Earth observation technology.

Compensation

• This internship will be a 40-hour a week commitment at the pay of $39per hour. An allowance will also be provided to support living costs throughout the program.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Capella an IonQ company is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and upholding equitable hiring practices.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race color religion sex sexual orientation gender identity national origin disability protected veteran status or any other characteristic under federal state or local law including those with a criminal history in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities women Veterans and those with disabilities to apply and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. If you need assistance or require an accommodation during the job application process please notify

To learn more about us explore our site: and follow us on X and LinkedIn to see our SAR imagery!