Summer 2026 Mechanical Engineering Intern

Worker Type

Job Description
 

Summary
 

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:

This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment’s determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment’s business requirements. A “U.S. person” according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.

Benefits:  AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown.  For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit:  http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits.

We also encourage you to review our company website at http://www.avinc.com to learn more about us.

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.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status.

ITAR