Aerospace & Mechanical Intern: Hands-On UAV Prototyping

AV; Centreville (VA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision

401K with company matching

9/80 work schedule

Paid holiday shutdown

Job summary

AV AeroVironment offers a Summer Aeromechanical Engineering Internship designed to provide hands-on, real-world experience with UAV systems and aerospace hardware. Interns work closely with experienced engineers on an IPT, tackling design, prototyping, and testing from concept to realization.

The program emphasizes cutting-edge technology, teamwork, and practical problem solving, with opportunities to develop CAD skills, perform basic analyses, and participate in reviews while supporting

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Exposure to CAD tools such as SolidWorks for 3D modeling and assembly design.
• Foundational understanding of mechanical engineering principles, including statics, dynamics, thermodynamics, and materials.
• Interest in air vehicles, robotics, or electromechanical systems.
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Strong problem‑solving and communication skills.
• Willingness to learn, ask questions, and contribute to team efforts.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and development of airframe structures and aeromechanical components for UAV systems.
• Create and modify 3D CAD models and assemblies using SolidWorks.
• Support basic mechanical analysis (kinematics, thermodynamics, stress) with guidance from senior engineers.
• Participate in prototype fabrication, 3D printing, and lab testing.
• Help create and revise engineering drawings, bills of materials, and documentation per standards.
• Contribute to technical presentations and informal design reviews.
• Learn about engineering trade-offs, material selection, and integration with multidisciplinary systems.
• Support design improvements and troubleshooting on current programs.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support engineering and development goals.

Skills

CAD tools

Mechanics

Air vehicles/robotics

MS Office

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

SolidWorks EPDM

MATLAB

Agile PLM

Job description

AV AeroVironment offers a Summer Aeromechanical Engineering Internship designed to provide hands-on, real-world experience with UAV systems and aerospace hardware. Interns work closely with experienced engineers on an IPT, tackling design, prototyping, and testing from concept to realization.

The program emphasizes cutting-edge technology, teamwork, and practical problem solving, with opportunities to develop CAD skills, perform basic analyses, and participate in reviews while supporting