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Internship Small Startup Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mintex Technology

Junior Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$180K - $200K/yr

... internships or full-time) and love for the design → measurement → iteration loop in small-team ... Bonus Signals Experience at a top-tier tech company or startup, or from a competitive engineering ...

8VC

Software Engineer, New Grad

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Learn how to build and scale software in a zero-to-one startup environment What We're Looking For ... Internships, side projects, or research related to software or AI Team & Why Thorin * Work directly ...

Grid Aero

Systems Test / Flight Test Intern

Merced, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Who We Are Grid.aero is a VC-backed aviation startup tackling complex challenges in both defense ... A motivated student or recent graduate with hands-on experience with small UAS or general aviation ...

Grid Aero

Systems Test / Flight Test Intern

Merced, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Who We Are Grid.aero is a VC-backed aviation startup tackling complex challenges in both defense ... A motivated student or recent graduate with hands-on experience with small UAS or general aviation ...

8VC

Software Engineer, New Grad

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Learn how to build and scale software in a zero-to-one startup environment What We're Looking For ... Internships, side projects, or research related to software or AI Team & Why Thorin * Work directly ...

Grid Aero

Systems Test / Flight Test Intern

Merced, CA

$20 - $30/hr

Who We Are Grid.aero is a VC-backed aviation startup tackling complex challenges in both defense ... A motivated student or recent graduate with hands-on experience with small UAS or general aviation ...

Honey Homes

Marketing Intern

Oakland, CA · On-site

$25/hr

This is not a "get the coffee" internship. You'll sit in our Oakland office with seasoned marketers ... Real exposure to how marketing works at a high-growth startup. Not theoretical -- you'll be working ...

8VC

Software Engineer, New Grad

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Learn how to build and scale software in a zero-to-one startup environment What We're Looking For ... Internships, side projects, or research related to software or AI Team & Why Thorin * Work directly ...

8VC

Software Engineer, New Grad

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Learn how to build and scale software in a zero-to-one startup environment What We're Looking For ... Internships, side projects, or research related to software or AI Team & Why Thorin * Work directly ...

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Internship Small Startup information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an intern at a small startup, and why are they important?

To thrive as an intern at a small startup, you typically need a foundational knowledge in your field of study, strong problem-solving abilities, and a willingness to learn quickly, often supported by current or recent enrollment in a relevant academic program. Familiarity with productivity tools like Google Workspace, project management software like Trello or Asana, and basic data analysis platforms is often advantageous. Strong communication, adaptability, and initiative are crucial soft skills, as startup environments demand flexibility and proactive contributions. These skills and qualities are important because interns at startups often wear many hats and must be able to handle evolving responsibilities in a dynamic, fast-paced setting.

What can I expect in terms of mentorship and learning opportunities during an internship at a small startup?

Interning at a small startup typically offers hands-on experience and close collaboration with founders and core team members. You can expect a less hierarchical structure, which means you'll likely have direct access to senior staff and more opportunities to ask questions, receive feedback, and contribute ideas. Startups often foster a culture of learning by doing, so you'll be given meaningful responsibilities and the chance to see the impact of your work. However, structured mentorship programs may be less formal compared to larger companies, so it's important to be proactive about seeking guidance and support.

What is an internship at a small startup?

An internship at a small startup is a temporary position where students or recent graduates gain hands-on experience by working closely with a small, entrepreneurial company. Unlike larger corporations, small startups often provide interns with opportunities to take on more responsibility, learn directly from founders, and contribute to various aspects of the business. This experience can be highly valuable for developing a broad skill set, networking, and understanding the unique challenges and rewards of startup environments.

What is the difference between Internship Small Startup vs Intern Software Developer?

AspectInternship Small StartupIntern Software Developer
Required CredentialsEnrolled in relevant degree program, basic coding skillsEnrolled in computer science or related field, coding proficiency
Work EnvironmentFast-paced, flexible, small teamCollaborative, project-based, tech-focused
Employer & Industry UsageStartups, tech, innovation sectorsTech companies, software firms, startups
Common Search & ComparisonInternship Small Startup vs Intern Software Developer

Internship Small Startup positions typically involve flexible roles in dynamic environments, often requiring basic technical skills. Intern Software Developer roles are more specialized, focusing on coding and software projects within tech companies. Both are valuable for gaining industry experience, but the scope and expectations differ based on the company's size and focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Small Startup jobs in California? The most popular types of Small Startup jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Internship Small Startup jobs in California? For Internship Small Startup jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Internship Small Startup jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Internship Small Startup jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Internship Small Startup jobs? Cities in California with the most Internship Small Startup job openings:
Internship Small Startup jobs near you
Infographic showing various Internship Small Startup job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 65% Physical, 13% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution.

2026 Fall Commercial Growth Intern

Ephemeris Net

Oakland, CA • On-site

$70.40K/yr

Temporary

Medical

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

About Ephemeris Net
We are extending the internet to space.
Ephemeris Net is a pre-seed space networking company on a mission to provide connectivity for all space users through collaborative engineering of commercial space networking solutions. We are creating the infrastructure that will enable the space internet beyond bent pipe by laying the foundational networking layer that will define how data moves through space.
We are supported by our technical incubator Second Order Effects, institutional VCs, and our network of space advisors. As space use scales and more space-native networks come online, we believe that now is the chance to build foundational infrastructure for how the internet will work in space.
The role
We are looking for an intern to work on commercial strategy at Ephemeris Net. Depending on where the company's needs are sharpest when you start, you will work with the Head of Government Programs & Finance or the Head of Commercial Growth & Ops on a project that directly supports how we differentiate ourselves, close commercial customers, or make strategic decisions.
Ephemeris Net is building the networking layer for the space economy. Getting the business model, financial projections, and commercial positioning right is just as important as getting the hardware right. You will help us build commercial strategy that drive the business forward.
By the end of this internship, you will have delivered work that directly supports commercial growth at a space infrastructure company. Your specific project will depend on your background and interests. We will match you to a project that is both meaningful to the company and a strong learning opportunity for you.
Example Projects
Upcoming intern projects may include:
Commercial Sales (Business Development)
  • Develop commercial sales proposals and supporting materials for prospective customers
  • Build pricing models and business case analyses for new product offerings or customer engagements
  • Conduct pricing research, rate analysis, and volume/cost modeling to support pricing decisions

Commercial Strategy (Market Mapping & Strategic Planning)
  • Conduct market mapping and competitive analysis: identify target customer segments, adjacent markets, and strategic partnership opportunities
  • Develop strategic recommendations on market entry, partnership structures, or product positioning based on competitive and market analysis

What You Will Learn
  • How commercial space deals get done: from customer discovery and proposal development to pricing and contract structure
  • How market mapping and competitive intelligence translate into go-to-market strategy
  • How to effectively translate between technical and business stakeholders to create a compelling product
  • How to work as part of a small, focused team where your contributions directly affect the company's trajectory

What We Are Looking For
Minimum Qualifications
  • Currently pursuing or recently completed an undergraduate or masters degree in business, finance, engineering, public policy, international relations, or a related field
  • Strong analytical skills: you are comfortable building financial models, working with data, and structuring ambiguous problems
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills: you can write clearly and persuasively under deadline pressure
  • Ability to work independently on a scoped project with mentorship and regular check-ins
  • Interest in working at a fast-paced startup where priorities shift and you need to adapt quickly
  • Ability to work on-site in El Segundo, CA or Oakland, CA for a minimum of 3 months, 3 days a week
  • Must be a US person (15 CFR § 772.1)

Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior experience in consulting, investment banking, venture capital, private equity, or corporate finance
  • Prior experience in the aerospace, defense, or space industry
  • Familiarity with venture capital fundraising processes and investor relations
  • Experience building financial models in Excel or Google Sheets (DCF, LBO, scenario analysis, or startup unit economics)
  • Experience with market research, competitive analysis, or strategic planning

How This Role Works
  • While you will have direct interfaces with the CEO and CTO, you will report to Head of Government Programs & Finance or the Head of Commercial Growth & Ops, depending on your project assignment, who will serve as your primary mentor. You will have regular check-ins and direct access to them for guidance.
  • Before you start, we will meet to understand your strengths and growth goals and scope a project for you.
  • You are expected to scope your project, execute, and present your results to the team at the end of the internship.

What we offer
Compensation & Benefits
  • Salary: $70,400 annual salary, prorated for length of internship
  • Comprehensive health care coverage

Work Environment
  • On-site, 3 days a week minimum: you will work alongside the team in the office. Government programs work requires close coordination and access to controlled information.
  • Small team environment with direct access to founders and senior leaders
  • Your work will be on real proposals and business development efforts, not a side project.

The Opportunity
  • Help build the business behind the technology: Your work on financial models, pitch materials, or commercial proposals will directly support how Ephemeris Net raises capital and wins customers.
  • See how a space startup operates from the inside: You will get exposure to fundraising, commercial sales, government contracting, and strategic planning at a company going from inception to orbit.
  • Build the space internet: Work on technology that will fundamentally change how space networks operate.

Our Vision and Values
Ephemeris Net's vision is to enable an open, space internet that anyone can utilize and access.
We believe that access to better digital connectivity is essential for human progress and that space is the frontier of digital connectivity. We believe that collaboration within market competition is the most effective way to expand the internet into space. Using Ephemeris Net to build space network solutions is how we can proliferate digital connectivity, collaboration, and "the raising of all boats" while achieving a commercial impact.
We care deeply about:
  • Access to connectivity for all
  • Collaboration that raises all boats; we focus on win/win deals
  • Commercial impact: building solutions people value and buy
  • Personal growth and creating a place where people build their careers
  • Putting good out into the world through the work we do and our interactions with each other

We are building a company people feel great about working at. We are seeking people who are open and actively seeking growth - both technical and personal. We value honesty, creativity, and a culture of ownership.
About our locations
El Segundo, CA: Located in the heart of the aerospace industry, surrounded by SpaceX, Aerospace Corporation, Northrop Grumman, and hundreds of space startups. A unique ecosystem where strangers on the street are excited about space.
Oakland, CA: Right off BART. Close collaboration opportunities with UC Berkeley and the broader Bay Area networking and space research communities.
Ephemeris Net is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Apply