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Optimal Control Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Linde

Advanced Process Control Engineer

Tonawanda, NY · On-site

$69K - $102K/yr

Collaborate with senior APC engineers, Regional Optimization Center, and operations teams to ... internships is a plus * In addition, you have the ability to analyze plant operating data and ...

Waabi

Research Scientist, Learnable Planner

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site +1

$158K - $269K/yr

... optimal control, optimization based approaches, search methods, probabilistic decision making). - Demonstrated research experience through previous internships, work experience, research projects ...

Waabi

Research Scientist, Learnable Planner

Dallas, TX · On-site +1

$158K - $269K/yr

... optimal control, optimization based approaches, search methods, probabilistic decision making). - Demonstrated research experience through previous internships, work experience, research projects ...

Waabi

Research Scientist, Learnable Planner

Dallas, TX · On-site +1

$158K - $269K/yr

... optimal control, optimization based approaches, search methods, probabilistic decision making). - Demonstrated research experience through previous internships, work experience, research projects ...

RFA Engineering

Control Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Experience through internships, co-ops, academic projects, or professional engineering roles ... optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is ...

Waabi

Research Scientist, Learnable Planner

Phoenix, AZ · On-site +1

$158K - $269K/yr

... optimal control, optimization based approaches, search methods, probabilistic decision making). - Demonstrated research experience through previous internships, work experience, research projects ...

Waabi

Research Scientist, Learnable Planner

Phoenix, AZ · On-site +1

$158K - $269K/yr

... optimal control, optimization based approaches, search methods, probabilistic decision making). - Demonstrated research experience through previous internships, work experience, research projects ...

Waabi

Research Scientist, Learnable Planner

Dallas, TX · On-site +1

$158K - $269K/yr

... optimal control, optimization based approaches, search methods, probabilistic decision making). - Demonstrated research experience through previous internships, work experience, research projects ...

Waabi

Research Scientist, Learnable Planner

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site +1

$158K - $269K/yr

... optimal control, optimization based approaches, search methods, probabilistic decision making). - Demonstrated research experience through previous internships, work experience, research projects ...

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How much do optimal control internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for optimal control internship in the United States is $15.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optimal Control Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optimal Control Intern, you need a solid background in control theory, mathematics, and dynamic systems, typically supported by coursework or a degree in engineering, applied mathematics, or a related field. Familiarity with programming languages like MATLAB or Python, and experience using simulation tools such as Simulink or Model Predictive Control (MPC) frameworks, are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and effective communication distinguish top candidates in this role. These qualifications are critical for developing and implementing control algorithms that optimize system performance and for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect during an Optimal Control Internship?

As an Optimal Control Intern, you will typically work on projects involving the design, simulation, and implementation of control algorithms for dynamic systems. Your daily responsibilities may include coding in MATLAB or Python, analyzing system models, running simulations, and collaborating closely with researchers or engineers to optimize performance criteria. Interns often participate in team meetings, contribute to documentation, and occasionally assist with experimental validation. This hands-on experience helps develop both theoretical understanding and practical skills in control engineering.

What is the difference between Optimal Control Internship vs Control Systems Engineer?

AspectOptimal Control InternshipControl Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in engineering, mathematics, or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in control engineering, electrical engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in research labs or corporate R&D departmentsFull-time engineering roles in industry, government, or research organizations
Industry UsageAcademic research, internships, early career developmentDesign, development, and implementation of control systems in various industries
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The Optimal Control Internship is an entry-level position focused on gaining practical experience in control theory and algorithms, often during academic studies. In contrast, a Control Systems Engineer is a full-time professional responsible for designing and maintaining control systems in industry. While both roles involve control theory, internships are more educational, whereas engineers are responsible for deployment and system optimization.

What is an Optimal Control Internship?

An Optimal Control Internship is a temporary position, usually for students or recent graduates, where you work with professionals on projects related to optimal control theory and its applications. Optimal control involves designing control strategies that optimize certain performance criteria for dynamic systems, often using mathematical modeling, simulations, and algorithm development. Interns in this field typically contribute to research, coding, and analysis in industries like aerospace, robotics, or automotive engineering. This experience helps build practical skills in control engineering, programming, and problem-solving, providing valuable exposure to real-world optimization challenges.
Infographic showing various Optimal Control Internship job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% As Needed, 33% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 34% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,333 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Guidance, Navigation and Controls (GNC) Internship - Fall 2026

Varda Space Industries

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$33/hr

Full-time, Internship

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

About Varda
Low Earth orbit is open for business. Varda is accelerating the development of commercial space infrastructure, from in-orbit pharmaceutical processing to reliable and economical reentry capsules.
From life-saving pharmaceuticals to more powerful fiber optics, there is a world of products used on Earth today that can only be manufactured in space. Varda is accelerating innovation in the orbital economy by creating both the products and infrastructure needed so space can directly benefit life on Earth. Our mission is to expand the economic bounds of humankind.
Our team is uniquely suited to accomplishing this goal, with leadership and staff comprised of veterans from SpaceX, Blue Origin, major pharmaceutical companies and Silicon Valley. Varda was founded in January 2021 by Will Bruey and Delian Asparouhov with significant backing from world class investors including Khosla Ventures, Lux Capital, Founders Fund, Caffeinated Capital, General Catalyst, and Also Capital.
Varda is headquartered in El Segundo, California, where we have offices and a production facility where our vehicles, equipment, and materials are built, integrated, and tested. Varda also has offices in Washington, DC and Huntsville, AL.
Join Varda, and work to create a bustling in-space ecosystem.
About This Role
Fall internships will range between the months of August and December. All dates dependent upon the university schedule of the selected students. Internships are full-time and on-site in Los Angeles, CA. To be considered for this internship, candidates must be actively enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate degree program.
The GNC (Guidance, Navigation & Controls) team is responsible for the design, analysis, simulation, and operational performance of Varda's reentry vehicles. In this internship, you'll help enable end-to-end GNC performance for our flight vehicles-supporting everything from 6DOF simulation and control system modeling to sensor integration and trajectory optimization.
Internships at Varda are optimal for students looking to grow technically and professionally while working on impactful projects critical to the company's success. You will be working on a collaborative team in a startup environment while being able to learn from some of most accomplished and experienced aerospace professionals in the world. We're dedicated to providing an experience that will let your decisions and contributions help drive Varda's success.
Responsibilities
  • As part of the GNC team, own or contribute to analysis, algorithms and simulations for reentry vehicles
  • Own Integration and testing of GNC sensors, actuators and software in simulation and hardware in the loop environments
  • Design and implement mission critical tooling needed to facilitate automated maneuver responsibility and scheduling decisions
  • Design and implementation of autonomous satellite attitude control, collision avoidance, orbital rendezvous, burn planning and atmospheric re-entry algorithms
  • Perform trajectory design, optimization, and dispersion analysis for the reentry of a space capsule
Basic Qualifications
  • Previous GNC internship
  • Familiar with orbital mechanics, flight dynamics, trajectory design and optimization, feedback controls, 6DOF flight simulations, navigation solutions, guidance navigation and controls flight algorithms, monte carlo analysis,
  • Familiarity with C++ or python and modern software development principles
Preferred Skills And Experience
  • At least one year of experience on a technical project team (e.g., CubeSat, Rocket Team, AIAA Design-Build-Fly, Formula SAE)
  • Previous experience working on simulation support tools or GNC tooling for aerospace vehicles
  • Familiarity with Monte Carlo analysis, navigation filters, sensor/actuator integration, or HIL simulation environments
  • Experience with tools like GMAT, POST2, MATLAB/Simulink, or custom orbital simulation frameworks
  • Strong communication and documentation skills

Compensation
  • Hourly Rate: $33.00
  • Housing stipend for interns relocating to the area
  • Commuter benefit to support local transportation

ITAR Requirements
  • Varda, like all employers, must ensure that its employees working in the United States are lawfully authorized to work in the U.S. Additionally, our employees are exposed to and have access to certain export-controlled items. At present, some of our technology to which employees have access requires a license to be exported to individuals other than "U.S. Persons" as defined in U.S. export regulations. Because our employees are provided access to export-controlled items, our current policy is to only hire "U.S. persons" who are permitted to have access to our technology without an export license.
    "US person" means: U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident, or protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) (i.e., individual admitted to the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum in the U.S.)
    Learn more about the ITAR here.
Benefits
  • Exciting team of professionals at the top of their field working by your side
  • Equity in a fully funded space startup with potential for significant growth (interns excluded)
  • 401(k) matching (interns excluded)
  • Unlimited PTO (interns excluded)
  • Health insurance, including Vision and Dental
  • Lunch and snacks provided on site every day. Dinners provided twice a week.
  • Maternity / Paternity leave (interns excluded)

Varda Space Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, martial status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.
E-Verify Statement
Varda Space Industries, Inc. participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security E-Verify program. The E-Verify program is an Internet-based employment eligibility verification system operated by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Learn more about the E-Verify program.
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