
Mechanical Engineering Internship - Fall 2026 at Vital Lyfe (Los Angeles, CA)
Vital Lyfe· Los Angeles, CA· $30–$33/hr·
Role details
Job description
About Vital Lyfe
At Vital Lyfe, we are dedicated to solving global water challenges through innovative desalination and water treatment solutions. This is an opportunity to join a passionate, multidisciplinary team tackling one of the world’s most critical challenges. Mission We’re looking for passionate and driven interns to join our mission and gain hands-on experience working on impactful projects.
What You'll Do
- Collaborate on the design and optimization of high-pressure systems.
- Assist in prototyping, testing, and refining lightweight, energy-efficient mechanical components.
- Analyze materials and system designs to ensure reliability and performance.
What We’re Looking For
Education: Currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Skills: Experience or coursework in relevant fields (e.g., fluid dynamics, circuit design, thermodynamics, material science).
Attributes:
- A passion for solving real-world problems.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
Physical Job Requirements - Essential Functions
- Hands on work on development hardware.
- Long periods of standing, crouching, walking.
- Lifting up to 50 lbs
Why Join Us?
- Impact: Work on technology that addresses one of humanity’s most pressing challenges.
- Hands-On Experience: Tackle real-world projects and gain invaluable industry knowledge.
- Mentorship: Learn from a team of seasoned engineers and innovators.
- Growth Opportunities: Contribute to a growing startup and help shape its future.
Location Requirement: Ability to work 100% onsite in Torrance, CA (remote or hybrid work will not be considered)
Vital Lyfe is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Vital Lyfe 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.
Why work at Vital Lyfe
- Culture: Described as “engineering liberation”—a mission-driven environment where employees push boundaries and reimagine essential resources. The team is heavily technical (39% in engineering/technical roles) and includes alumni from SpaceX, L3Harris, and other advanced engineering companies.
- Remote/Hybrid/Office: Offices in Hawthorne, CA (HQ) and Long Beach, CA. Likely on-site given the hardware and manufacturing focus, but roles may offer flexibility.
- Notable Perks: Competitive salary, equity, 401K, health/vision/dental insurance, paid holidays, cellphone & internet stipend, referral bonus, team outings, meals & snacks, EV charging station, spot bonuses.
- Growth Opportunity: With 29 employees and rapid scaling, new hires will have significant impact and ownership from day one.