Composite Engineering Intern - Fall 2026

LiquidPiston, Inc.; Suffield, Northern (CT, KY); Hybrid; USD 15,000 - 21,000; Full time

Job summary

LiquidPiston, Inc. is seeking a Composite Engineering Intern for Fall 2026 in Bloomfield, CT (relocating to Suffield, CT later in 2026). This hands-on internship allows you to design, build, fabricate and test composite hardware with guidance from experienced engineers.

You will collaborate with engineers and technicians on prototype hardware, gain exposure to advanced propulsion technology, and contribute to documentation and process improvements in a fast-paced R&D environment.

Qualifications

• Pursuing Bachelor's or Master's in ME, Materials, Aerospace, Manufacturing, or related field.
• Hands-on experience with composite materials.
• Familiar with carbon fiber, fiberglass, epoxy systems, prepregs, wet layup.
• Ability to read engineering drawings.
• CAD software familiarity preferred.
• Strong hands-on lab/manufacturing aptitude.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and with a team.
• Detail-oriented; high-quality workmanship.
• Onsite, hands-on engineering tasks.

Responsibilities

• Assist with design and development of composite components and structures.
• Support fabrication, layup, trimming, bonding, and finishing.
• Assist with tooling and fixture development for composite manufacturing.
• Support prototype builds and engineering development projects.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing and design issues; identify solutions.
• Dimensional inspection and evaluation of composite components.
• Material selection and documentation support.
• Participate in testing and evaluation of components and assemblies.
• Create and update engineering documents and build instructions.
• Collaborate with engineers and technicians to improve processes.
• Maintain organized records of fabrication, testing, and activities.
• Support other engineering activities as needed.

Skills

Hands-on

Reading drawings

CAD software

Problem solving

Independent work

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field

Tools

CAD software

Job description

Composite Engineering Intern - Fall 2026

Location: Bloomfield, CT, relocating to Suffield, CT later in 2026

Employment Type: Full-time Internship (Fall 2026)

Compensation: Paid

Build. Test. Innovate.

Want an internship where you can get your hands dirty and see your work come to life?

LiquidPiston is looking for a Composite Engineering Intern to join our team in Fall 2026. This is a hands-on opportunity to work alongside experienced engineers and technicians on real-world composite components used in advanced propulsion technology.

You won't just be sitting behind a desk. You'll have the opportunity to help design, build, fabricate, troubleshoot, and test composite hardware while gaining experience in a fast-paced R&D environment.

If you're curious, hands-on, and excited by the idea of working on technology that pushes the boundaries of engine design, we'd love to hear from you!

About LiquidPiston

LiquidPiston is an advanced technology company developing innovative rotary engines for aerospace, defense, and commercial applications. Our compact, lightweight engine technology is designed to deliver high power density and efficiency for applications including unmanned aerial systems, hybrid-electric propulsion, and other demanding platforms.

What You'll Do

• Assist with the design and development of composite components and structures.
• Support composite part fabrication, layup, trimming, bonding, and finishing.
• Assist with tooling and fixture development for composite manufacturing.
• Support prototype builds and engineering development projects.
• Help troubleshoot manufacturing and design issues and identify potential solutions.
• Assist with dimensional inspection and evaluation of composite components.
• Support material selection and documentation for composite applications.
• Participate in testing and evaluation of composite components and assemblies.
• Create and update engineering documentation, drawings, work instructions, and build documentation.
• Work closely with engineers and technicians to improve manufacturing processes and part quality.
• Maintain organized records of fabrication, testing, and engineering activities.
• Support other engineering and hands-on development activities as needed.

What We're Looking For

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with composite materials.
• Familiarity with carbon fiber, fiberglass, epoxy systems, prepreg, wet layup, or similar composite processes.
• Ability to read and understand engineering drawings.
• Familiarity with CAD software is preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to work hands-on in a lab or manufacturing environment.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with engineers and technicians.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
• Must be comfortable working onsite and performing hands-on engineering tasks.

What You'll Gain

• Hands-on experience with composite design and manufacturing.
• Exposure to advanced propulsion technology and R&D engineering.
• Experience working directly with engineers and technicians on prototype hardware.
• Opportunities to participate in the development cycle from design through fabrication and testing.
• Experience solving real-world engineering and manufacturing challenges in a fast-paced environment.