Feeny
wardstone.space

Business Development Intern at wardstone.space (El Segundo, CA)

wardstone.space· El Segundo, CA· $6k–$10k·

Role details

Salary
$6k–$10k
Work type
Onsite
Employment
Full-Time

Job description

Overview

Wardstone is a defense-tech startup building next-generation space and missile defense systems to protect the United States and its allies. We work closely with the Space Force and Air Force to move fast from concept to deployed capability. We are looking for a Business Development Intern to support customer discovery, government engagement, and strategic partnerships. We have a strong preference for candidates with prior military service working within the Air Force, Navy, or any other missile defense experience. Bonus points for graduates of U.S. military academies.

What You’ll Work On

  • Support engagement with DoD customers, labs, and program offices
  • Help prepare briefing materials, whitepapers, and proposals (SBIR, BAAs, RFPs)
  • Track and analyze defense programs, budgets, and acquisition pathways
  • Assist with partner and prime contractor outreach
  • Conduct market and competitive analysis across defense and space domains
  • Sit in on real customer calls, strategy discussions, and reviews
  • Potential travel to military bases and conferences domestically
  • Bonus points for active clearance This is a hands-on role with direct exposure to how early-stage defense companies work with government customers.

Who We’re Looking For

  • Prior service members strongly preferred, especially graduates of:- U.S. Air Force Academy
  • U.S. Military Academy (West Point)
  • U.S. Naval Academy
  • Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in engineering, policy, economics, business, or a related field
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Comfortable with ambiguity and fast-moving environments
  • Interest in national security, defense acquisition, and emerging technology
  • Ability to work in the U.S. (citizenship required)

Bonus points for experience with:

  • DoD acquisition processes or program offices
  • SBIR / STTR or government contracting
  • Strategy, consulting, or defense policy
  • Engineering background and ability to engage with engineers

Why Wardstone

  • Work on real national security problems with real customers
  • Learn how defense startups engage with the DoD from the inside
  • Direct mentorship from founders
  • High ownership, real responsibility, no busywork
  • Competitive compensation for interns

Why work at wardstone.space

  • Mission-driven: Direct impact on national security and countering hypersonic threats.
  • Early-stage startup: Opportunity to shape the company’s technology and culture from the ground up.
  • Engineering focus: Roles span mechanical, electrical, avionics, propulsion, GNC, simulation, and sensing.
  • Compensation & equity: Competitive salaries ($100k–$160k for engineers) plus equity grants.
  • Location: El Segundo, CA — a growing aerospace startup hub near LA Air Force Base and Space Force facilities.
  • Work environment: Likely on-site/hybrid (El Segundo office); YC alumni culture with fast iteration and hands-on testing (e.g., Mojave flight tests).

Application questions