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Internship Payload Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

R&D Engineer Intern

Littleton, CO

$25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Interns contribute directly to active hardware programs by helping design prototypes, instrument ... Support development and testing of components and payload systems for high-temperature and extreme ...

R&D Engineer Intern

Littleton, CO · On-site

$25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Interns contribute directly to active hardware programs by helping design prototypes, instrument ... Support development and testing of components and payload systems for high-temperature and extreme ...

R&D Engineer Intern

Littleton, CO

$25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Interns contribute directly to active hardware programs by helping design prototypes, instrument ... Support development and testing of components and payload systems for high-temperature and extreme ...

GNC Engineer III

Denver, CO · On-site

$115K - $190K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors ... Internship or project experience in GNC, control systems, or simulation development * Experience ...

GNC Engineer II

Denver, CO · On-site

$90K - $155K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors ... Internship or project experience in GNC, control systems, or simulation development * Experience ...

Software Engineer I, QA

Denver, CO · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors ... internships included) * General understanding of software development lifecycle, testing ...

Software Engineer I, QA

Denver, CO · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors ... internships included) * General understanding of software development lifecycle, testing ...

GNC Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors ... through internships, coursework, or projects * Ability to build, test, and debug flight software ...

GNC Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors ... through internships, coursework, or projects * Ability to build, test, and debug flight software ...

GNC Engineer, Missile Defense

Denver, CO · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors ... through internships, coursework, or projects * Ability to build, test, and debug flight software ...

GNC Engineer, Missile Defense

Denver, CO · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors ... through internships, coursework, or projects * Ability to build, test, and debug flight software ...

Showing results 21-40

Internship Payload information

What is an internship payload?

Internship Payload positions are entry-level internships focused on supporting the design, development, testing, or integration of payload systems in aerospace, satellite, or similar engineering fields. These roles typically involve hands-on work with payload hardware or software, data analysis, and collaboration with engineering teams to ensure mission requirements are met. Interns in these positions gain valuable experience in real-world aerospace projects, working closely with experienced professionals and learning about the challenges and technologies of payload systems.

What kind of projects or tasks can an intern expect to work on in a payload internship?

As a Payload Intern, you can expect to contribute to a variety of hands-on projects that support the design, integration, and testing of payload systems, such as satellites, scientific instruments, or cargo modules. Typical responsibilities may include assisting with hardware assembly, conducting data analysis from test results, documenting procedures, and collaborating with engineers to troubleshoot issues. You'll often work within a multidisciplinary team, gaining exposure to both technical and project management aspects. This role offers the opportunity to develop practical skills and gain insight into the full lifecycle of payload development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a payload intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Payload Intern, you generally need a background in engineering, physics, or a related STEM field, alongside strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and programming languages like Python or MATLAB is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills that set candidates apart. These abilities ensure accurate payload design, smooth collaboration, and successful project execution in aerospace or related industries.

What is the difference between Internship Payload vs Data Analyst?

AspectInternship PayloadData Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate, some technical skillsBachelor's degree in related field, technical skills often required
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, training-focused, temporaryFull-time, professional, ongoing
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs across industries, educational institutionsBusiness, finance, healthcare, tech companies
Search & Comparison IntentLearning, entry-level opportunities, career explorationCareer development, skill enhancement, job search

Internship Payload is an entry-level, temporary position aimed at gaining experience, often for students or recent graduates. Data Analyst roles are more permanent, requiring specific skills and credentials, focusing on analyzing data to support business decisions. While both involve working with data, the internship is a stepping stone, whereas the Data Analyst position is a professional career role.

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Internship Payload jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Internship Payload job openings:

Infographic showing various Internship Payload job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Remote job distribution.

$25/hr

Internship

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

About Canopy Aerospace & Defense

Canopy A&D is built to accelerate the future of advanced materials for space, defense, and maritime systems. Canopy delivers specialized materials and components that carry customers from concept through sustainment. Canopy A&D's advanced signal attenuation technologies and production-scale manufacturing accelerate the fielding of platforms that are faster, cooler, and quieter. Our adaptive approach ensures solutions evolve at the pace of shifting challenges, keeping our customers ahead of the curve.


Position Summary

Canopy Technologies is seeking exceptional engineering students to join our team as R&D Engineering Intern for Fall 2026. As an intern, you will work closely with experienced engineers to develop and test next-generation materials and hardware systems designed for extreme environments - including re-entry vehicles, hypersonic platforms, and high-temperature aerospace and defense systems.

This role sits at the intersection of materials science, mechanical design, and experimental test. Interns contribute directly to active hardware programs by helping design prototypes, instrument experiments, analyze data, and iterate on engineering solutions. At Canopy, interns are not observers. You will be embedded in real development programs, working alongside engineers, technicians, and manufacturing teams to help build and test hardware that must survive some of the harshest environments encountered in aerospace.

If you are motivated to apply your engineering knowledge beyond the classroom and enjoy working with real hardware, data, and experimentation, this role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a fast-moving R&D environment.

Key Responsibilities
  • Support development and testing of components and payload systems for high-temperature and extreme-environment applications
  • Assist with characterization and testing of advanced materials including ceramics, composites, coatings, and embedded sensor systems
  • Help design and assemble experimental setups, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems
  • Collect, process, and analyze experimental data to support engineering decisions
  • Contribute to thermal, structural, or multiphysics analyses under guidance from senior engineers
  • Assist with CAD modeling and documentation of hardware assemblies and test fixtures
  • Support prototype integration and testing in laboratory or field environments
  • Work alongside engineers, technicians, and manufacturing teams to iterate on hardware designs and test setups
  • Document results and contribute to internal technical reports and design reviews
Required Qualifications
  • Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or a related field
  • Experience applying engineering skills outside the classroom through laboratory work, research, engineering project teams, or personal projects
  • Familiarity with CAD tools (SolidWorks, NX, Fusion, or similar)
  • Basic programming ability (Python, MATLAB, or similar) for data analysis or instrumentation
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative, cross-functional engineering environment
  • Strong professional communication and technical writing skills
  • Ability to adapt and contribute in a fast-paced R&D setting where requirements evolve rapidly
Preferred Qualifications
  • Strong engineering fundamentals in heat transfer, solid mechanics, thermodynamics, or materials science
  • Hands-on experience building or testing hardware through research labs, engineering clubs, or competition teams (rocketry, Formula SAE, Baja, Design Build Fly, etc.)
  • Experience working with sensors, instrumentation, or data acquisition systems
  • Familiarity with advanced manufacturing tools such as 3D printing, machining, or composite fabrication
Additional Requirements
  • Must have professional working proficiency reading, writing, and speaking English
  • Ability to work in office, lab, and manufacturing environments with occasional exposure to noise, chemicals, dust, industrial equipment, and temperature variations
  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working at a computer workstation
  • Frequent use of hands and fingers for data entry, keyboarding, and mouse use
  • Ability to view computer screens for prolonged periods
  • Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and via email
  • Abilityto use a computer to complete assignments
  • Ability to work extended hours and weekends as necessary
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a US Government Secret security clearance

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Management may modify or assign additional duties as needed. 

Job Details
Location: Onsite in Littleton, CO
Schedule/Hours: ~30 hours a week, M-F 
Hourly Pay Rate: $25
Ability to work extended hours and weekends as necessary

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Total compensation will also include a comprehensive set of benefits including but not limited to: Company paid employee medical, dental and vision insurance. 401K company match (eligibility required), paid sick leave, paid vacation, paid holidays and discretionary bonuses.

EXPORT CONTROL REQUIREMENTS:

To conform to US Government export regulations, the applicant must be a (i) US Citizen, (ii) lawful permanent resident of the U.S. (aka green card holder), (iii) protected individual as defined by U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or (iv) eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Canopy A&D is an Equal Opportunity Employer, employment with Canopy A&D is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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