Summer 2027 Mechanical Engineering Intern

Worker Type

Supplemental

Job Description

Our Summer Internship Program is meticulously designed to provide students with an immersive and dynamic experience within our industry, offering a taste of what it's like to be part of our professional team. We strive to simulate a full-time job, enabling our interns to work hands-on with cutting-edge technology, contribute to meaningful projects, build strong relationships with coworkers, and develop strategic problem-solving skills. Our program is highly selective, hosting only a handful of interns each year, ensuring personalized attention and ample opportunities to work closely with AV team members.

We are hiring for various roles and locations throughout the U.S. During the interview process, we will discuss specific details regarding the team and location.

Position Responsibilities

• Assist in the design of mechanical components and systems, including airframes, payload enclosures, ground equipment, launch systems, and electro-mechanical assemblies

• Create and modify 3D CAD models and assemblies using SolidWorks

• Support simulation and analysis tasks using tools like SolidWorks Simulation or ANSYS

• Participate in prototype fabrication, assembly, and testing using in-house tools and rapid prototyping methods (e.g., 3D printing)

• Help generate technical drawings and bills of materials in accordance with industry drafting standards

• Collaborate with engineers to support design reviews, testing activities, and integration of mechanical systems

• Contribute to documentation and reporting of design progress and test results

• Learn and assist in configuration control and engineering change processes

• Perform other tasks as assigned to support ongoing development efforts

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field

• Basic experience with 3D CAD software (preferably SolidWorks)

• Familiarity with mechanical components such as machined parts, sheet metal, plastic parts, or composite materials

• Exposure to hands-on prototyping, lab testing, or mechanical assembly through academic or personal projects

• Strong communication and organizational skills

• Eagerness to learn and contribute in a fast-paced, collaborative environment

Preferred Qualifications & Competencies

• Familiarity with SolidWorks EPDM or other Product Data Management (PDM) systems

• Exposure to ASME Y14.5 GD&T standards and engineering drawing practices

• Interest or experience in designing test fixtures or tooling

• Basic understanding of structural dynamics or thermodynamics in mechanical design

• Demonstrated problem-solving ability and attention to detail

• Self-motivated, proactive, and eager to take initiative

• Team player who values collaboration and continuous improvement

Physical Demands

• Ability to work in an office and light R&D lab environment (Constant)

• Required to sit or stand for extended periods; use hands and fingers to operate a computer or tools (Frequent)

ITAR Requirement:

Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.

Who We Are

Based in California, AeroVironment (AVAV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we’ve been at the leading edge of technical innovation for more than 45 years. Be a part of the team that developed the world’s most widely used military drones and created the first submarine-launched reconnaissance drone, and has seven innovative vehicles that are part of the Smithsonian Institution’s permanent collection in Washington, DC.

Join us today in developing the next generation of small UAS and tactical missile systems that will deliver more actionable intelligence to our customers so they can proceed with certainty – and succeed.

What We Do

Building on a history of technological innovation, AeroVironment designs, develops, produces, and supports an advanced portfolio of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services use the company’s hand-launched UAS to provide situational awareness to tactical operating units through real-time, airborne reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition.

ITAR