About Opterus
Opterus Research and Development is an aerospace company based in Loveland, Colorado, that designs and manufactures cutting-edge deployable space structures and subsystems. We utilize advanced composite materials and origami-inspired designs to create rollable booms, solar arrays, RF structures, and other space systems that support commercial, defense, and scientific missions. Join our small but mighty team in making the future of space unfold.

Position Overview
We are seeking multiple engineering interns to join our team for the summer of 2026. As an intern, you will collaborate with experienced engineers and contribute to the design, manufacturing, assembly, and testing of innovative hardware that pushes the boundaries of what is possible in space. In this dynamic role, you will gain experience with spaceflight hardware and participate in cutting-edge research on next-generation space structures.

• Temporary: ~12 week position, between May and August 2026
• Part-time: ~25 hours weekly
• Location: On-site in Loveland, CO

What You'll Do

• Help design and model mechanical and composite structures in SolidWorks
• Get hands-on experience assembling and testing prototypes
• Support documentation, drawings, and data analysis
• Collaborate with mechanical, manufacturing, and systems engineers on projects

What We're Looking For

• Currently pursuing a B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical, Aerospace, Systems, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field
• Familiar with SolidWorks or similar CAD software
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Solid communication skills and a willingness to work with others and/or independently
• Excited about aerospace, composites, and innovative structures
• U.S. citizenship or permanent residency required (due to government contract work)
• Aligns with our company values: Leadership, Collaboration, Flexibility, Diligence, and Humility

Bonus Skills

• Completed core coursework in at least one of the following: mechanical design, analysis, circuits, manufacturing, thermodynamics, statics and dynamics, experimental physics, mechanics of solids, technical writing, structures, etc.
• Hands-on experience with machining, prototyping, or composites manufacturing
• Some coding or data analysis experience in MATLAB or Python

Why You'll Love Working Here

• Contribute to real space hardware and see your work make an impact
• Work closely with a small, passionate engineering team
• Learn directly from experienced mentors
• Competitive internship pay
• Enjoy the great state of Colorado: sunny summers, daytrips to numerous state and national parks, and endless networking opportunities in a world-recognized space hub!