Summer 2027 - Mechanical Design Engineer Intern

PACCAR • Kirkland, WA

20h

About The Position

PACCAR’s Kenworth Division is seeking an Engineering Intern to support the development of commercial electric vehicle systems. The intern will work with electrical, mechanical, and software engineers on system design, integration, validation, and quality initiatives, gaining hands-on experience in a collaborative engineering environment. Candidates will interview with departments including Future EV Development/Zero Emissions, Chassis Cab/Outerbody, Technical Services, Engines, and Powertrain. The internship is scheduled to begin in May or June 2027.

The role offers opportunities to learn from industry professionals, work with managers and senior managers, build mentoring relationships with engineering leaders, contribute to projects, and expand a professional network. The position is intended for a student pursuing an engineering degree, with junior or senior standing preferred.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Strong problem-solving skills and motivation to develop innovative automotive components and commercial vehicle projects.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, lean, collaborative team environment.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and planning/tracking skills.
• Competency with standard office software, including word processing and spreadsheets.
• Ability to learn and use new processes and techniques and to solve complex technical issues resourcefully.
• Commitment to reliability, value, and quality in all aspects of work.
• Willingness to grow continuously and a strong results- and goal-driven orientation.

Nice To Haves

• Junior or senior standing in an undergraduate program is preferred.
• Proficiency with Creo or other CAD modeling software for creating 3D models of optimized parts, routings, and complex assemblies.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze hardware and firmware designs and use engineering processes and techniques to solve complex technical problems.
• Active participation in a university-sponsored engineering club such as EcoCAR, Formula SAE, or SARP.
• Understanding of complex design and its impact on electrical/electronic systems, architecture, and software-driven functionality.

Responsibilities

• Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to support quality commercial electric vehicle designs and systems integration.
• Follow project management processes to maintain project schedules and functionality.
• Help ensure component quality and reliability meet or exceed expectations.
• Analyze system needs and requirements to inform system architecture designs.
• Develop and document engineering specifications for new vehicle control functions, including autonomous vehicles.
• Collaborate with cross-divisional counterparts on global design direction.
• Support validation activities with supplier and internal teams to ensure quality and reliability of components and systems.

Benefits

• Competitive salary: $25 per hour for undergraduate students and $30 per hour for graduate students.
• 401(k) with up to a 5% company match.
• Medical, dental, and vision plans for the employee and family.
• Sick leave.
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA) and health savings accounts (HSA).
• EAP services, including wellness plans, estate planning, and financial counseling.
• Growth, training, and development opportunities.
• Opportunity to work alongside experienced colleagues recognized as experts in their field.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern