Intern - Mechanical Design Engineer

North Wind; Newport News (VA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

North Wind seeks a Mechanical Design Engineering Intern to support the design and development of precision experimental models used in wind tunnel testing. You will work with experienced engineers on 3D CAD modeling, structural design, sensor integration, and manufacturing processes.

You will gain hands-on experience translating aerodynamic data into robust test hardware designed to withstand demanding wind tunnel environments and collaborate with machinists and vendors to support assembly and

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
• Basic understanding of 3D CAD modeling and mechanical design principles.
• Familiarity with engineering drawings, GD&T, and manufacturing processes is preferred.
• Coursework or projects in structural mechanics, materials, dynamics, or FEA are beneficial.
• Interest in aerodynamics, wind tunnel testing, experimental hardware, or aerospace engineering.

Responsibilities

• Develop 3D CAD models of aerodynamic shapes, mechanical components, and supporting structures.
• Design model interiors, cavities, and routing channels for sensors and instrumentation.
• Assist with internal structural components and model supports for testing.
• Prepare engineering drawings and apply GD&T for precision manufacturing.
• Support basic structural analysis and FEA to evaluate strength and deformation.
• Research material properties and assist with material selection for hardware.
• Collaborate with engineers, machinists, and external vendors for manufacturing and assembly.
• Participate in design reviews, model prep, and testing activities as they arise.
• Maintain accurate engineering documentation and communicate progress and questions.

Skills

3D CAD modeling

Mechanical design principles

Engineering drawings & GD&T

FEA exposure

Materials familiarity

Aerodynamics interest

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Independent work

Education

Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering (Bachelor's/Master's)

Tools

Siemens NX

CATIA

SolidWorks

Job description

Join North Wind - Accelerating National Advantage

At North Wind, we are advancing hypersonic technologies through cutting-edge research, system development, and flight testing. Our team drives innovation in high-speed aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and mission-critical components, supporting every phase of hypersonic programs - from R&D to flight testing, if you are passionate about pushing technological boundaries in a dynamic environment, we invite you to join us.

Position Summary

North Wind is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineering Intern to support the design and development of precision experimental models and mechanical components used in wind tunnel testing. Working alongside experienced engineers, the intern will gain exposure to 3D CAD modeling, structural design, sensor integration, engineering analysis, and advanced manufacturing processes.

This role offers an opportunity to learn how aerodynamic data is translated into physical test models designed to withstand demanding wind tunnel environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with developing 3D CAD models of aerodynamic shapes, mechanical components, and supporting structures.
• Support the design of model interiors, cavities, and routing channels for sensors and instrumentation, including pressure sensors, strain gauges, and thermocouples.
• Assist with designing internal structural components and model supports to withstand aerodynamic forces during testing.
• Help prepare engineering drawings and apply geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) to support precision manufacturing.
• Support basic structural analysis and finite element analysis (FEA) to evaluate component strength, deformation, and performance under expected loading conditions.
• Research material properties and assist with selecting appropriate materials for experimental hardware.
• Collaborate with engineers, machinists, and external vendors to support manufacturing and assembly activities.
• Participate in design reviews, model preparation, and testing activities as opportunities arise.
• Maintain accurate engineering documentation and communicate design progress, questions, and technical challenges to the project team.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Basic understanding of 3D CAD modeling and mechanical design principles.
• Familiarity with engineering drawings, dimensioning and tolerancing, and manufacturing processes is preferred.
• Coursework or project experience involving structural mechanics, materials, dynamics, or finite element analysis is beneficial.
• Interest in aerodynamics, wind tunnel testing, experimental hardware, or aerospace engineering.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently on assigned tasks and collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary engineering team.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and a willingness to learn new tools and techniques.
• Must be eligible to obtain a U.S. security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Siemens NX, CATIA, SolidWorks, or other 3D CAD software.
• Familiarity with structural analysis, material selection, or precision mechanical design through coursework, projects, or prior internships.
• Exposure to CNC machining, electrical discharge machining (EDM), additive manufacturing, or other advanced manufacturing methods.
• Interest in transonic, supersonic, or hypersonic testing environments.

Internship Learning Opportunities

Through this internship, students can develop practical skills in precision mechanical design, CAD modeling, structural analysis, sensor integration, engineering documentation, and manufacturing coordination. Interns will gain insight into how experimental hardware is designed and produced to support advanced aerodynamic testing at North Wind.

North Wind is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. North Wind supports safe and drug free workplace through pre-employment background checks and drug testing.

The salary range provided is a general guideline. Actual pay will depend on several factors, including, but not limited to, education, experience, training, and other applicable qualifications. North Wind is committed to pay transparency in compliance with applicable state and local laws.

All candidates must be eligible to work in the United States.