Summer 2027 Aeromechanical Engineering Intern

AeroVironment, Inc.; Simi Valley (CA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

AeroVironment, Inc. in California is seeking an Aeromechanical Engineering Intern to support the development of airframes and mechanical subsystems for UAVs and other aerial platforms. You will work with experienced engineers within an IPT, gaining hands-on experience from concept through prototyping.

You'll use SolidWorks for 3D modeling, participate in prototyping and testing, and learn about materials, design trade-offs, and multi-disciplinary integration in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• Familiarity with CAD tools for 3D modeling and assemblies.
• Foundational mechanical engineering principles (Statics, Dynamics, Thermodynamics, Materials).
• Interest in air vehicles, robotics, or electromechanical systems.

Responsibilities

• Assist design and development of airframe structures and aeromechanical components for UAV systems.
• Create/modify 3D CAD models and assemblies using SolidWorks.
• Support basic mechanical analyses with guidance from senior engineers.
• Participate in prototype fabrication, 3D printing, and lab testing.
• Help prepare engineering drawings, BOMs, and documentation per standards.
• Contribute to technical presentations and design reviews.
• Learn trades, materials, and system integration aspects.

Skills

SolidWorks

Statics & Dynamics

Thermodynamics

Materials

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Aerospace Eng

Tools

SolidWorks

EPDM

MATLAB

Agile PLM

Job description

Worker Type Supplemental Job Description Aeromechanical Engineering Intern Our Summer Internship Program is meticulously designed to provide students with an immersive and dynamic experience within our industry, offering a taste of what it's like to be part of our professional team. We strive to simulate a full-time job, enabling our interns to work hands-on with cutting‑edge technology, contribute to meaningful projects, build strong relationships with coworkers, and develop strategic problem-solving skills. Our program is highly selective, hosting only a handful of interns each year, ensuring personalized attention and ample opportunities to work closely with AV team members. We are hiring for various roles and locations throughout the US, during the interview process we will be able to discuss specific details regarding team and location.

Summary

As an Aeromechanical Engineering Intern, you will support the development of systems for both military and commercial applications. You will work closely with experienced engineers as part of an Integrated Product Team (IPT), gaining hands‑on experience in the design, prototyping, and testing of mechanical systems for aerial platforms. This internship offers a unique opportunity to apply your academic knowledge to real aerospace engineering challenges — from concept through prototyping — while learning industry best practices in a collaborative, mission‑driven environment.

Position Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and development of airframe structures and aeromechanical components for UAV systems
• Create and modify 3D CAD models and assemblies using SolidWorks
• Support basic mechanical analysis (kinematics, thermodynamics, stress, etc.) with guidance from senior engineers
• Participate in prototype fabrication, 3D printing, and lab testing
• Help create and revise engineering drawings, bills of materials, and documentation in compliance with industry standards
• Contribute to technical presentations and informal design reviews
• Learn about engineering trade‑offs, material selection, and integration with multi-disciplinary systems
• Support design improvements and troubleshooting efforts on current programs
• Perform other duties as assigned to support engineering and development goals

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline
• Exposure to CAD tools such as SolidWorks for 3D modeling and assembly design
• Foundational understanding of mechanical engineering principles, including statics, dynamics, thermodynamics, and materials
• Interest in air vehicles, robotics, or electromechanical systems
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Strong problem‑solving and communication skills
• Willingness to learn, ask questions, and contribute to team efforts

Preferred Qualifications & Competencies

• Experience with SolidWorks EPDM, MATLAB, or Agile PLM systems
• Hands‑on experience with 3D printing, machining, or composite fabrication through class projects or personal builds
• Familiarity with GD&T and engineering drawing standards (ASME Y14.5)
• Exposure to FEA tools, thermal analysis, or aerodynamic simulation (academic or project‑based)
• Interest in or experience with UAVs or aerospace vehicle systems
• Enthusiastic team player who demonstrates initiative, attention to detail, and accountability
• Ability to communicate ideas clearly, both in writing and in presentations
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, iterative development environment

Physical Demands

• Ability to work in an office and light manufacturing environment (Constant)
• Required to sit, stand, and use a computer and lab equipment for extended periods (Frequent)
• May occasionally lift or carry objects up to 10 lbs. during lab or prototyping work (Occasional)

ITAR Requirement

This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify U.S. person status under the ITAR and the EAR. A “U.S. person” according to their definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee, or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.

Benefits

• AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown.
• For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits.
• We also encourage you to review our company website at http://www.avinc.com to learn more about us.
• Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.

Who We Are

Based in California, AeroVironment (AVAV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we’ve been at the leading edge of technical innovation for more than 45 years. Be a part of the team that developed the world’s most widely used military drones and created the first submarine‑launched reconnaissance drone, and has seven innovative vehicles that are part of the Smithsonian Institution’s permanent collection in Washington, DC. Join us today in developing the next generation of small UAS and tactical missile systems that will deliver more actionable intelligence to our customers so they can proceed with certainty – and succeed.

What We Do

Building on a history of technological innovation, AeroVironment designs, develops, produces, and supports an advanced portfolio of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services use the company’s hand‑launched UAS to provide situational awareness to tactical operating units through real‑time, airborne reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition.

EEO/AA

We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status.

ITAR About AV:

AV isn’t for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission‑obsessed. The best of the best. We don’t just build defense technology—we redefine what’s possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI‑powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve. Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian—but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next. If you’re ready to build technology that matters—with speed, scale, and purpose—there’s no better place to do it than AV.

Careers at AeroVironment