Mechanical Engineer Intern

Trossen Robotics; Downers Grove (IL); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Trossen Robotics is seeking a Mechanical Engineering Intern in Downers Grove, Illinois. This position is designed for students eager to gain practical experience in robotics, focusing on tasks such as creating CAD models, supporting production documentation, and assisting with prototyping.

Ideal candidates will be pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, possess a strong interest in hands-on work, and will be involved in real-world engineering projects that transition from concept to production.

Qualifications

• Basic understanding of manufacturing methods is helpful.
• Enjoys hands-on work more than purely theoretical work.
• Curious, self-motivated, and not afraid to ask questions.

Responsibilities

• Create and update 3D drawings and basic CAD models.
• Support engineering documentation for production.
• Assist with prototype assembly and testing.
• Assist with fabrication and prototyping (3D printing, laser cutting, etc.).

Skills

Basic familiarity with CAD software (Fusion 360, SolidWorks, etc.)

Interest in mechanical design, robotics, or product development

Comfortable working with tools and hands-on builds

Strong attention to detail

Positive attitude and eagerness to learn

Education

Currently pursuing (or recently started) a degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field

Job description

Portfolios are required for this position. Any application without a linked portfolio will be rejected.

Having a portfolio is essential when applying for a Mechanical Design Engineering position. Without it, it's like trying to get a job as a chef without letting anyone taste your food or as a painter without showing your artwork. If you don't have one, it's best to wait to submit your application until you do, as your resume may get passed over otherwise. A good portfolio demonstrates that you are invested in your career and are willing to put effort into presenting yourself professionally.

Don't forget that "DESIGN" is in the name "Mechanical Design Engineering", so it's crucial to showcase your design skills.

Portfolio Content Guidelines

• Screenshots of CAD projects you've worked on
• Photos or videos of physical builds you've completed
• Detailed descriptions of your projects and your specific contributions, especially if it was a team effort
• Discussion of challenges and iterations you overcame during the project
• Personal projects and work done outside of school assignments to show passion and initiative
• Content can be presented in a simple PDF or hosted on GitHub

*NOTE* This job requires a portfolio to apply. Directions for applying with a portfolio are provided on the website application form.

Position Overview

Trossen Robotics is seeking a hands‑on Mechanical Engineering Intern to support our R&D and product development team. This role is ideal for students or early learners who want real‑world experience working on robotics systems and learning how products move from concept to production.

This is not a purely academic role — interns will spend significant time building, testing, iterating, and supporting real engineering projects.

Responsibilities

• Create and update 3D drawings and basic CAD models
• Support engineering documentation for production
• Assist with prototype assembly and testing
• Work with production to help roll out new products to the assembly floor
• Design and build jigs, fixtures, and test setups
• Perform R&D testing, including long‑duration stress testing (e.g., cable testing rigs running 24/7)
• Assist with fabrication and prototyping (3D printing, laser cutting, light machining, etc.)
• Help develop experimental components, such as molds for gripper fingers and other custom parts
• Organize and maintain test data, parts, and engineering materials

Skills & Experience

• Basic familiarity with CAD software (Fusion 360, SolidWorks, etc.)
• Interest in mechanical design, robotics, or product development
• Comfortable working with tools and hands‑on builds
• Basic understanding of manufacturing methods (helpful but not required)
• Strong attention to detail and willingness to follow instructions
• Positive attitude and eagerness to learn

What You’ll Learn

• Real‑world application of mechanical design and prototyping
• How products transition from R&D to production
• Fundamentals of Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA)
• Hands‑on experience with testing, validation, and iteration
• Exposure to robotic systems integration and development workflows
• How to work effectively in a fast‑paced engineering environment

Ideal Candidate

• Currently pursuing (or recently started) a degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
• Enjoys hands‑on work more than purely theoretical work
• Curious, self‑motivated, and not afraid to ask questions
• Interested in robotics and building real systems

Trossen Robotics is an industry leader in the field of research and educational robotics. We specialize in designing, developing, and integrating manipulators and UGVs. Our robotic kits are in use by every major university and research institution in the USA, along with Fortune 100 tech companies in a variety of industries.

We are located in the Chicago suburbs in Downers Grove. Candidates will need to have transportation.