Engine Test Engineering Intern – Summer 2027 | LiquidPiston

LiquidPiston, Inc.; Suffield (CT); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

LiquidPiston, Inc. in Suffield, CT is seeking an Engine Test Intern for Summer 2027. This paid internship involves supporting engine test setups, instrumentation calibration, and data analysis to help advance propulsion research.

You will work with dynos and lab stands, assist with fixtures, and collaborate across design and controls teams to improve engine performance in a fast-paced prototyping environment.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering or related field.
• Hands-on lab, fabrication, assembly or testing experience.
• Ability to troubleshoot mechanical and test-related issues.
• Strong organization and data-handling skills.
• Interest in engines, propulsion, thermodynamics and experimental testing.

Responsibilities

• Support setup, execution, and monitoring of engine tests on dynos and test stands.
• Assist instrumentation installation, calibration, and troubleshooting.
• Collect, organize, and analyze engine performance data.
• Prepare engines, fuel and cooling systems for testing.
• Support root-cause analysis of issues observed during testing.
• Participate in test planning, procedures, and post-test reporting.
• Assist with fabrication and modification of test fixtures and equipment.
• Collaborate with design, controls, manufacturing and simulation teams.
• Maintain safe, organized test cell operations.

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering

Hands-on lab/fab/test experience

Troubleshooting mechanical/test issues

Strong data handling and attention to detail

Ability to thrive in fast-paced prototyping

Tools

LabVIEW

CAN communication

Data acquisition systems

Python

MATLAB

Excel

SolidWorks (CAD)

Job description

Engine Test Intern - LiquidPiston

Location: Suffield, CT

Employment Type: Full-time Internship (Summer 2027)

Compensation: Paid

About LiquidPiston:

LiquidPiston is an advanced propulsion technology company developing compact, high-efficiency rotary engines for aerospace, defense, hybrid power systems, and mobility applications. Our patented rotary engine architecture is designed to deliver significantly higher power density, improved fuel efficiency, lower vibration, and multi-fuel capability compared to conventional piston engines.

Our team operates in a highly collaborative, fast-paced environment focused on rapid prototyping, testing, and continuous engineering innovation. As we continue transitioning from research and development into commercialization, interns have the opportunity to contribute directly to cutting-edge engine programs and real-world product development.

Responsibilities:

• Support setup, execution, and monitoring of engine and subsystem tests on dynos and laboratory test stands
• Assist with instrumentation installation, calibration, and troubleshooting (thermocouples, pressure sensors, flow meters, DAQ systems, etc.)
• Collect, organize, and analyze engine performance and test data
• Help prepare engines, fuel systems, cooling systems, and supporting hardware for testing
• Support troubleshooting and root-cause analysis of engine, combustion, thermal, or mechanical issues observed during testing
• Participate in test planning, test procedure documentation, and post-test reporting
• Assist with fabrication, assembly, and modification of test fixtures, plumbing, and support equipment
• Collaborate with mechanical design, controls, manufacturing, and simulation teams to improve engine performance and reliability
• Maintain safe and organized test cell operations in a fast-paced development environment

Qualifications:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field (rising junior/senior or graduate level preferred)
• Strong interest in engines, propulsion systems, thermodynamics, and experimental testing
• Basic understanding of internal combustion engines, fluid systems, heat transfer, and mechanical systems
• Hands-on experience with tools, fabrication, assembly, or laboratory work
• Ability to troubleshoot mechanical and test-related issues in a practical environment
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail when handling data and test procedures
• U.S. person status (citizen or permanent resident) preferred due to defense/aerospace-related projects
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, prototype-heavy environment with rapidly changing priorities

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Prior experience with engine dyno testing, Formula SAE, Baja SAE, motorsports, UAVs, robotics, or propulsion projects
• Familiarity with data acquisition systems, sensors, LabVIEW, CAN communication, or controls systems
• Experience working with instrumentation, wiring, calibration, or troubleshooting test equipment
• Basic CAD experience (SolidWorks or similar) for fixtures or test hardware
• Experience with Python, MATLAB, Excel, or other data analysis tools
• Understanding of combustion, engine performance metrics, or thermal systems
• Previous internship, lab, or co-op experience in automotive, aerospace, energy, or mechanical testing environments

Our Culture

At LiquidPiston, we challenge convention and solve hard problems. We move fast, think boldly, and iterate quickly. Our team thrives on collaboration, creativity, and resilience. We take calculated risks and believe that every setback is a steppingstone toward breakthrough innovation.

Equal Opportunity Employer

LiquidPiston, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

All offers of employment at LiquidPiston are contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment background check, drug screening and credit check.