Mechanical Engineering Intern

AeroVironment•Petaluma, CA

32d•Onsite

About The Position

Our paid Summer Internship Program is designed to provide students with an immersive, hands-on experience within the aerospace and defense industry. Interns work alongside AV team members on meaningful projects involving cutting-edge technology while developing professional relationships, strategic problem-solving skills, and practical experience in a full-time work environment. This is a 12-week, onsite program intended for highly motivated and passionate students who are currently enrolled in college or are recent graduates. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, with a preference for students at the junior level or above. Our program has been recognized by Yello and WayUp as one of the Top 100 Internship Programs in the United States for multiple years. Depending on the team and location, students who are willing to relocate for their internship may be eligible for a relocation and housing reimbursement stipend. This position will report onsite to the Petaluma, CA office and work on our UAS product line.

Requirements

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
Minimum 3.0 GPA
Must qualify as a U.S. person under ITAR and/or EAR regulations.

Nice To Haves

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
Preference for students at the junior level or above.

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