Intern - Mechanical Design Engineer

North Wind; Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

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

This role offers hands-on experience translating aerodynamic data into physical test models designed to withstand demanding wind tunnel environments.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
• Fundamental CAD modeling and design principles demonstrated in coursework or projects.
• Familiarity with drawings, GD&T, and manufacturing processes preferred.
• Projects involving 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 and mechanical components.
• Design interiors, cavities, and routing for sensors and instrumentation (pressure sensors, strain gauges, thermocouples).
• Create internal structural components and model supports to withstand testing loads.
• Prepare engineering drawings and apply GD&T for precision manufacturing.
• Support basic structural analysis and FEA for component performance under load.
• Research materials and assist in selecting appropriate materials for hardware.
• Collaborate with engineers, machinists, and vendors for manufacturing and assembly.
• Participate in design reviews, model prep, and testing activities as available.
• Maintain engineering documentation and communicate progress and challenges to the team.

Skills

3D CAD modeling

Mechanical design

GD&T

FEA basics

Materials knowledge

Documentation

Team collaboration

Security clearance eligible

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering

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.