Engineering Intern - Space and Missile Defense

Wardstone builds a modular interceptor platform of right-sized, mass-producible interceptors that enable the West to out-produce, out-innovate, and out-perform its adversaries.

Wardstone is a space defense-tech startup building next-generation systems to protect the United States and its allies from advanced missile threats. We design, build, and test both ground and space-based hardware.

We’re looking for engineering interns from top schools who want to work on real world systems from concept to testing.

Depending on your background and interests, you may work on:

• Physics-based simulation and modeling (orbital mechanics, intercept dynamics, guidance & control)
• Hardware prototyping and testing (mechanical, electrical, propulsion, sensing)
• Embedded software, controls, or autonomy
• Sensor systems (IR / EO), perception, and tracking
• Data analysis from test campaigns
• System-level trade studies and design reviews

Interns are treated as engineers. Your work will directly with founders and full-time engineers, influence flight hardware, simulations, and participate in field tests.

• Currently pursuing a degree in engineering, physics, or a related technical field

(Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Robotics, Computer Science, Physics)

• Demonstrated delivery on previous extracurricular engineering projects
• Curious, self-directed, and motivated by real-world impact
• MATLAB or Python for modelling and data analytics
• US CITIZENSHIP REQUIRED

Bonus points for experience with:

• Controls, GNC, or orbital mechanics
• Embedded systems or hardware bring-up
• IR sensors, computer vision, or signal processing
• Hands-on lab, shop, or field testing experience

• Work on problems that matter at the national security level
• Direct mentorship from founders and full time engineers
• Exposure to the full engineering lifecycle from concept to testing
• Fast pace, high ownership, minimal bureaucracy
• Competitive compensation for interns

Wardstone’s product is a low-cost, modular interceptor for air and missile defense. It is built on a common airframe that can be configured with a mission-tailored seeker, propulsion, and payload modules. It defeats air-breathing and cruise missile threats at a fraction of the cost of exquisite interceptors, adding affordable magazine depth to existing air defense systems.

• 15-30 min phone intro with CEO
• 1 Hour phone deep dive with CTO
• 1 Hour in person with CEO