Mechanical Engineer - Intern

Packet Digital; Fargo (ND); On-site; USD 38,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Packet Digital invites a Mechanical Engineering Intern to contribute to CAD design, prototyping, testing, and product development for portable electronics, embedded systems, energy storage, and unmanned aircraft systems.

You'll work with experienced engineers from concept through production, gaining hands-on experience in CAD modeling, prototyping, and manufacturing processes, while learning lifecycle considerations and supplier collaboration.

Qualifications

• Working toward a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
• Experience with CAD software, preferably Creo.
• Strong attention to detail and organization.
• Effective written and verbal communication; ability to collaborate in a fast-paced team.

Responsibilities

• Support design, development, and testing of mechanical and mechatronic systems.
• Create and modify 3D CAD models and drawings; assist with simulations and design validation.
• Work with manufacturing processes including machining, injection molding, sheet metal fabrication, and 3D printing.
• Assist with Bills of Materials (BOMs), ECOs, and product documentation.
• Collaborate with electrical, software, and manufacturing teams; participate in reviews and discussions.

Skills

CAD design

Creo

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

FEA/CFD tools

Job description

Mechanical Engineering Intern

Packet Digital | Fargo, ND

Build the Future of Advanced Technology

Are you passionate about engineering design, product development, and solving complex mechanical challenges? Join Packet Digital as a Mechanical Engineering Intern and gain hands‑on experience working on innovative technologies including portable electronics, embedded systems, battery‑powered devices, and unmanned aircraft systems.

As a Mechanical Engineering Intern, you'll work alongside experienced engineers in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, contributing to real‑world projects from concept through production. This is an excellent opportunity to apply classroom knowledge while developing practical skills in CAD design, prototyping, testing, manufacturing processes, and product development.

What You'll Do

As part of our Engineering team, you'll support the design, development, and testing of mechanical and mechatronic systems while learning industry best practices from experienced engineers.

Design & Product Development

• Assist in gathering and defining product requirements
• Research materials, manufacturing processes, and technical solutions
• Support the design of mechanical and mechatronic components and assemblies
• Participate in developing concepts and evaluating design alternatives
• Learn how engineering teams manage project schedules, milestones, and deliverables

CAD & Engineering Analysis

• Create and modify 3D CAD models and engineering drawings
• Assist with simulations and design validation activities
• Support analysis related to structural, thermal, and material performance
• Help optimize designs for reliability, manufacturability, weight, and cost
• Gain exposure to engineering methodologies such as DFM, DFMEA, and product lifecycle considerations

Prototyping & Testing

• Assist with prototype assembly and product testing
• Support troubleshooting and performance evaluation efforts
• Work with manufacturing processes including machining, injection molding, sheet metal fabrication, and 3D printing
• Help evaluate assembly methods such as fastening, welding, soldering, and encapsulation
• Participate in laboratory testing and validation activities

Documentation & Supplier Collaboration

• Assist with Bills of Materials (BOMs), engineering change orders (ECOs), and product documentation
• Support design review preparation and project documentation efforts
• Work with suppliers to source custom and commercial‑off‑the‑shelf (COTS) components
• Help prepare drawings and models for manufacturing partners
• Assist with supplier reviews, quote evaluations, and component selection activities

Teamwork & Professional Growth

• Collaborate with electrical, software, and manufacturing team members
• Participate in design reviews and technical discussions
• Support project database and component management efforts
• Help maintain an organized and safe lab environment
• Contribute ideas while learning from experienced engineers and mentors

What We’re Looking For

Required Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree (or higher) in Mechanical Engineering
• Strong problem‑solving and troubleshooting skills
• Experience with CAD design software, preferably Creo
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Effective written and verbal communication abilities
• Understanding of fundamental engineering principles, including:
  • Mechanics
  • Heat transfer
  • Materials engineering
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast‑paced team environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with FEA, CFD, or other CAE simulation tools
• Exposure to lithium‑ion battery design or energy storage systems
• Interest in aerospace, drones, or unmanned systems
• Experience with 3D printing and rapid prototyping
• Knowledge of thermal analysis and thermal management techniques
• Previous project, laboratory, internship, or engineering club experience

What You’ll Gain

• Real‑world engineering experience on active development projects
• Mentorship from experienced mechanical and multidisciplinary engineering teams
• Hands‑on exposure to product development from concept through production
• Experience with CAD modeling, prototyping, testing, and manufacturing processes
• Professional development in design reviews, documentation, and supplier collaboration
• Opportunity to contribute to innovative technologies used in aerospace and advanced electronic systems

About Packet Digital

Packet Digital designs, manufactures, and markets advanced electronic solutions for portable electronic devices, embedded systems, energy storage applications, and unmanned aircraft systems. Our team is dedicated to developing innovative technologies that solve complex challenges for customers across multiple industries.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Packet Digital is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. Qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.