Summer 2027 Learning Architecture and Design Intern

About this role

Divergent is building the new industrial age. Every day, our teams design, manufacture, and assemble advanced systems for some of the world’s most demanding industries. Our integrated engineering and manufacturing platform transforms complex designs into production-ready solutions, helping customers move faster, build smarter, and deliver critical systems when they matter most. Divergent is a qualified Tier 1 supplier to global automotive OEMs and supports leading U.S. aerospace and defense companies.

Join us and help push the boundaries of what can be built.

Duration: 12 weeks (summer 2027)

Location: Torrance, CA (onsite)

Purpose

At Divergent, we are transforming how complex products—like performance vehicles and aerospace components—are designed, engineered, and manufactured. But our ability to scale isn’t just about technology. It’s about people.

We’re building a next-generation internal learning academy to rapidly onboard, upskill, and reskill a diverse workforce—ranging from hands-on technicians to world-class engineers. This isn’t a traditional training department; it’s a design lab for experiential learning at scale.

We’re seeking a graduate-level Learning Architecture and Design Intern to help architect, prototype, and evaluate high-impact learning experiences grounded in adult learning principles, performance enablement, and human-centered design.

The Role

Instructional Design & Delivery
Design and prototype learning modules and pathways for advanced manufacturing technician and engineering roles using adult learning and instructional design principles (e.g., experiential learning, microlearning, spaced repetition, and blended learning).

Learning Experience Innovation
Explore how AI tutors, immersive simulations, and AR/VR environments can accelerate skill mastery and engagement across the workforce.

Curriculum Architecture
Partner with technical and operational leaders to translate job knowledge, skills and abilities and core values and behaviors into structured learning journeys and skill progression frameworks.

Learning Evaluation
Develop and apply learning success metrics tied to real-world performance outcomes. Analyze data on engagement, skill transfer, and behavior change.

Performance Enablement
Embed learning into our real-time feedback and capability-building systems—replacing static training with dynamic, in-flow development.

Change & Communication Design
Support adoption of new learning systems, tools, and rituals through targeted messaging and learner-centric enablement strategies.

Applied Research
Conduct focused research on adult learning, instructional design models, and technology-enhanced learning to inform continuous improvement.

Basic Qualifications

• Ability to lawfully access information and technology that is subject to U.S. export controls

• Master’s or PhD candidate in Instructional Design, Learning Sciences, Adult & Continuing Education, or related field (Organizational Psychology or Behavioral Science welcome with strong learning design interest

• Demonstrated experience designing learning materials, programs, or experiences (academic, professional, or applied)

• Familiarity analyzing complex datasets to identify trends, patterns, and insights that support business decisions.

• Experience creating reports and presentations that effectively communicate data-driven findings and recommendations to non-technical stakeholders.

• Comfortable using AI tools to support writing, content creation, research, and workflow efficiency.

• Understanding of adult learning theory, curriculum design, and instructional models

• Strong research and synthesis skills—able to translate insights into actionable learning strategies

• Growth mindset and eagerness to learn through feedback

• Excellent written and visual communication skills along with a strong attention to detail

• Track record of success in fast-paced, experimental, high-autonomy environments

Preferred Qualifications

• Exposure to learning design or authoring tools (Articulate, Captivate, Rise, etc.)

• Familiarity with LMS environments and standards such as SCORM or xAPI

• Exposure to learning technologies leveraging AI, AR/VR, or simulation

• Familiarity with job task analysis, skills mapping, or competency frameworks

• Comfort analyzing engagement and learning data

• Prior experience in instructional design, L&D, or workforce development

• Curiosity about AI, emerging technology, and the future of work

Why This Internship?

• This isn’t a typical HR or training internship—it’s an opportunity to design the future of learning in advanced manufacturing. You’ll help craft scalable, high-impact learning systems that empower technicians, engineers, and leaders to grow fast and perform at their peak.

• You’ll prototype modern learning experiences—from adaptive simulations to AI-powered feedback loops—transforming how people learn and perform in a high-innovation environment.

Pay Range
$37—$40 USD

What We Offer Our Regular, Full-Time Employees:

• Holistic Compensation Package: Enjoy a world-class compensation package that includes a competitive salary, equity plan, and discretionary results-based incentive bonus opportunities, ensuring you're truly valued for your contributions.

• Wellness and Time Off: Embrace a healthy lifestyle with paid vacation, sick time, and company holidays, including a year-end shutdown to recharge. We support growing families with paid parental leave, recognizing the importance of bonding time.

• Comprehensive Health and Wellness: Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health and wellness benefits, offering both HMO and Premium PPO options. Additionally, benefit from company-sponsored life insurance and short and long-term disability coverage for peace of mind.

• Investment in Growth: We're committed to your professional development. Take advantage of reimbursement opportunities for learning and development initiatives, empowering you to…