Deployable structures- Solar Array
Arinna
South San Francisco, CA, USA
Posted on Feb 7, 2026
About Arinna
Arinna is building the energy core of Space 3.0 and frontier tech. We’re pioneering ultra-light, power-dense solar platforms based on next-generation 2D semiconductors, enabling a step-change in how and where solar power can be deployed — from satellites and high-altitude aircraft to lunar and Martian infrastructure. Spun out of Stanford University, Arinna combines breakthroughs in materials science, device physics, and scalable manufacturing to deliver the most power-efficient and lightweight solar technology ever built. With over $370M in LOIs/off-take agreements and a clear roadmap from pilot (2026) to gigawatt-scale production by 2030, we’re on a mission to power the next generation of space and terrestrial systems. We’re backed by leading deep-tech investors and advised by industry pioneers. Our headquarters and pilot facility are in South San Francisco, CA, where we’re scaling our team across R&D, manufacturing, and systems integration.
About the Role
The Mechanical Engineering Intern will lead the mechanical design, analysis, and testing of deployable solar array structures and mechanisms. This role provides hands-on exposure to spaceflight hardware development across the full product lifecycle, from concept design through test and integration.
What You'll Do
- Support mechanical design of deployable structures and mechanisms, including hinges, deployment systems, yokes, and locking features.
- Develop CAD models, drawings, and basic analyses for structural and mechanical components.
- Perform entry-level structural, thermal, or dynamic analyses under guidance from senior engineers.
- Support design verification activities, including test planning, test setup, data collection, and post-test analysis.
- Assist with hardware procurement, fabrication coordination, and build integration activities.
Qualifications
- Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science or Masters in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
- Coursework or academic project experience involving mechanical design and analysis.
- Familiarity with CAD software and basic engineering drawings.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a collaborative engineering environment.
Preferred Skills & Experience
- Academic or internship experience related to mechanisms, structures, or deployable systems.
- Exposure to finite element analysis (FEA) or thermal analysis through coursework or projects.
- Familiarity with engineering tools such as NX, SolidWorks, or similar CAD platforms.
- Introductory experience with analysis tools such as Ansys, Nastran, Abaqus, or equivalent.
- Understanding of basic GD&T concepts.
- Interest in space systems, spacecraft structures, or aerospace hardware development.
- Experience working on hands-on engineering projects, labs, or student design teams.
What Defines Success at Arinna
- Excellence in Execution: You bring rigor, precision, and attention to detail to every experiment.
- Collaborative Energy: You elevate those around you through positive engagement and open communication.
- Candor and Trust: You communicate with clarity and integrity to enable faster iteration and collective learning.
- Curiosity and Adaptability: You embrace the unknown as an opportunity to explore, experiment, and improve.
- Mission Focus: You are motivated by impact and driven to help build technology that advances the clean energy future.