Mechanical Engineering Intern

TAP Engineering; Columbia (MD); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

TAP Engineering in Columbia, MD is seeking a hands-on Mechanical Engineering Intern to support our hardware team. This shop-and-lab-forward role focuses on designing, building, and testing real hardware rather than theoretical work.

You will work with mechanical and electrical engineers on design, fabrication, and testing of electronic products, helping bring test setups from a whiteboard sketch to a bench fixture. This is ideal for a student who enjoys making things and using tools.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an accredited Bachelor's program in Mechanical Engineering.
• Working knowledge of SolidWorks or comparable 3D CAD software.
• Able to work on-site in Columbia, MD ~20 hours per week; eligible/willing to obtain DoD Secret clearance.

Responsibilities

• Design test fixtures, brackets, mounts, and setup hardware in SolidWorks to support electronics testing.
• Fabricate parts and assemblies using 3D printers, hand tools, and basic shop equipment; support outsourced machining and sheet metal fabrication.
• Set up and conduct environmental and functional qualification tests (e.g., vibration testing).
• Build, wire, and set up test configurations; assist engineers in executing test plans and capturing data.
• Create and revise 3D models and 2D drawings.
• Support prototype builds, mechanical assembly, and design verification activities.
• Participate in design reviews and contribute ideas for improving hardware and test methods.

Skills

Hands-on aptitude

Communication skills

On-site work readiness

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering (enrolled)

Tools

SolidWorks

Shop tools

Job description

Position Overview

TAP Engineering is seeking a hands-on Mechanical Engineering Intern to support our hardware team in Columbia, MD. This is a shop-and-lab-forward role: you'll spend your time designing, building, and testing real hardware rather than sitting on the sidelines.

You'll work alongside mechanical and electrical engineers supporting the design, fabrication, and test of electronic products — helping bring test setups from a sketch on a whiteboard to a working fixture on the bench. This position is well-suited to a student who likes making things, is comfortable with tools, and wants to see how mechanical design decisions play out in a real product.

Key Responsibilities

• Design test fixtures, brackets, mounts, and setup hardware in SolidWorks to support electronics testing
• Fabricate parts and assemblies using 3D printers, hand tools, and basic shop equipment; support outsourced machining and sheet metal fabrication
• Set up and conduct environmental and functional qualification tests (i.e., vibration testing)
• Build, wire, and set up test configurations; assist engineers in executing test plans and capturing data
• Create and revise 3D models and 2D drawings
• Support prototype builds, mechanical assembly, and design verification activities
• Participate in design reviews and contribute ideas for improving hardware and test methods

Required Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an accredited Bachelor's program in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline
• Working knowledge of SolidWorks or comparable 3D CAD software
• Demonstrated hands-on aptitude — coursework projects, competition teams (FSAE, robotics, rocketry), makerspace work, personal builds, or shop/trade experience all count
• Comfort with hand tools, fasteners, and basic shop safety practices
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Able to work on-site in Columbia, MD, approximately 20 hours per week
• U.S. citizen and eligible/willing to obtain a DoD Secret security clearance

Compensation

The anticipated hourly pay range for this position is $18–$28 per hour, based on relevant experience, qualifications, and other applicable factors. The compensation range provided is a general guideline and is not a guarantee of compensation or salary.

Additional Information

TAP Engineering is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.