Intern - Mechanical Engineer

North Wind; Tullahoma (TN); On-site; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

North Wind in Tennessee is seeking a Mechanical Engineering Intern to assist with the design, analysis, and development of mechanical and structural systems used in wind tunnel and hypersonic ground test facilities. You will work with a multidisciplinary engineering team on 3D CAD modeling, FEA, and engineering calculations, supporting fabrication, testing, and project planning.

This internship provides hands-on experience with advanced aerospace hardware, opportunities to contribute to

Qualifications

• Pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Coursework or project experience in mechanical design, structural analysis, fluids, thermodynamics, or materials is preferred.
• Basic understanding of 3D CAD modeling and engineering drawings.

Responsibilities

• Assist with design and development of mechanical components and subsystems for wind tunnel/hypersonic facilities.
• Support 3D CAD modeling and preparation of drawings, BOMs, and procurement specs.
• Perform engineering calculations and FEA to evaluate structural performance against requirements.
• Research materials, components, and manufacturing methods to inform designs.
• Prepare and maintain technical documentation and design verification plans.
• Collaborate with engineers, designers, procurement, and fabrication teams.
• Review vendor information and resolve design/manufacturing issues.
• Participate in design reviews and project meetings to communicate progress.
• Support equipment installation, testing, and commissioning as opportunities arise.
• Assist with project planning, cost estimates, and proposal development.

Skills

Strong analytical skills

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Written and verbal communication

Independent with teamwork

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering or related

Tools

SolidWorks

ANSYS

CAD tools

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

The Mechanical Engineering Intern will assist with the design, analysis, and development of mechanical and structural systems used in wind tunnel and hypersonic ground test facilities. Working with a multidisciplinary engineering team, the intern will gain exposure to custom equipment design, mechanical components, fluid systems, structural analysis, and manufacturing processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the design and development of mechanical components and subsystems, including steel structures, piping, mechanisms, and process equipment.
• Support 3D CAD modeling and the preparation of engineering drawings, bills of materials, and procurement specifications.
• Assist with engineering calculations and finite element analysis (FEA) to evaluate structural performance and validate designs against project requirements.
• Help research materials, components, and manufacturing methods to support engineering design decisions.
• Prepare and maintain technical documentation, including design criteria, calculation packages, technical reports, and design verification plans.
• Collaborate with engineers, designers, procurement personnel, and fabrication teams to support equipment development and assembly.
• Assist with reviewing vendor information, evaluating components, and resolving design or manufacturing issues.
• Participate in engineering design reviews and project meetings to communicate progress and discuss technical challenges.
• Support equipment installation, testing, and commissioning activities as opportunities arise.
• Assist with project planning, cost estimates, and proposal development for future engineering work.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical discipline at an accredited university.
• Coursework or project experience involving mechanical design, structural analysis, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, or materials is preferred.
• Basic understanding of 3D CAD modeling and engineering drawings.
• Familiarity with engineering calculations, structural analysis, or finite element analysis is beneficial.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments, prioritize tasks, and communicate progress effectively.
• Ability to work independently on assigned tasks while collaborating with a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and a willingness to learn.
• Must be eligible to obtain any required U.S. Government authorizations under applicable export control regulations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with SolidWorks, ANSYS, or other CAD and engineering analysis software.
• Familiarity with fabrication processes such as welding, machining, forming, or additive manufacturing.
• Exposure to fluid systems, piping, pressure vessels, pumps, valves, or other mechanical equipment.
• Coursework or project experience involving heat transfer, high-temperature materials, or aerospace systems.
• Familiarity with geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), risk assessments, or design verification.
• Interest in wind tunnel testing, aerospace engineering, or hypersonic technologies.

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.