Mechanical Engineering Intern: CAD Design & Prototyping

AeroVironment; Simi Valley (CA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision

401K with company matching

9/80 work schedule

Paid holiday shutdown

Job summary

AeroVironment in California is seeking a mechanical engineering student intern to assist with designing components for unmanned systems, creating SolidWorks CAD models, and supporting testing in our R&D lab.

You will gain hands-on experience in prototyping, drafting, and collaboration across the engineering team, while learning configuration control and design reviews as part of a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Basic experience with 3D CAD software (preferably SolidWorks).
• Familiarity with mechanical components such as machined parts, sheet metal, plastic parts, or composite materials.
• Exposure to hands-on prototyping, lab testing, or mechanical assembly through academic or personal projects.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Eagerness to learn and contribute in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the design of mechanical components and systems, including airframes, payload enclosures, ground equipment, launch systems, and electro-mechanical assemblies.
• Create and modify 3D CAD models and assemblies using SolidWorks.
• Support simulation and analysis tasks using tools like SolidWorks Simulation or ANSYS.
• Participate in prototype fabrication, assembly, and testing using in-house tools and rapid prototyping methods (e.g., 3D printing).
• Help generate technical drawings and bills of materials in accordance with industry drafting standards.
• Collaborate with engineers to support design reviews, testing activities, and integration of mechanical systems.
• Contribute to documentation and reporting of design progress and test results.
• Learn and assist in configuration control and engineering change processes.
• Perform other tasks as assigned to support ongoing development efforts.

Skills

Communication

Team collaboration

Willingness to learn

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field

Tools

SolidWorks

ANSYS

Job description

AeroVironment in California is seeking a mechanical engineering student intern to assist with designing components for unmanned systems, creating SolidWorks CAD models, and supporting testing in our R&D lab.

You will gain hands-on experience in prototyping, drafting, and collaboration across the engineering team, while learning configuration control and design reviews as part of a fast-paced environment.