Summer 2026 Mechanical Engineering Intern at AeroVironment

Simi Valley, California, United States

AeroVironment Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
InternshipExperience Level
InternshipJob Type
UnknownVisa
AerospaceIndustries

Requirements

  • 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
  • Qualify as a U.S. person under ITAR/EAR (U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident, or protected individual); some positions require current U.S. Citizenship
  • Ability to work in an office and light R&D lab environment, sit/stand for extended periods, and use hands/fingers to operate computers or tools

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

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

SolidWorks3D CADSolidWorks SimulationANSYS3D PrintingPrototype FabricationTechnical DrawingsBills of MaterialsMechanical DesignCAD Assemblies

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What are the required skills for the Mechanical Engineering Intern position?

Candidates must be currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field, have basic experience with 3D CAD software (preferably SolidWorks), familiarity with mechanical components, exposure to hands-on prototyping or mechanical assembly, and strong communication and organizational skills.

What does a typical day look like for this intern?

Interns will assist in designing mechanical components and systems, create and modify 3D CAD models using SolidWorks, support simulation and analysis, participate in prototype fabrication and testing, generate technical drawings, collaborate on design reviews, and contribute to documentation.

Is this internship remote or does it require being on-site?

The role involves working in an office and light R&D lab environment, with ability to sit or stand for extended periods, and positions are available throughout the U.S. with specific team and location discussed during interviews.

What is the company culture like for interns at AeroVironment?

The program offers an immersive full-time job simulation in a fast-paced, collaborative environment with hands-on work on cutting-edge technology, close relationships with team members, and personalized attention due to hosting only a handful of interns each year.

What makes a strong candidate for this internship?

Strong candidates have preferred qualifications like familiarity with SolidWorks EPDM or PDM systems, exposure to ASME Y14.5 GD&T standards, interest in test fixtures, understanding of structural dynamics or thermodynamics, demonstrated problem-solving, attention to detail, self-motivation, proactivity, and being a team player.

AeroVironment

Develops autonomous robotic systems for defense

About AeroVironment

AeroVironment develops and sells autonomous robotic systems that can perform various missions without human intervention. These systems are designed to enhance operational efficiency, reduce risks to personnel, and provide valuable data to users. The company primarily serves government agencies, defense organizations, and commercial clients, focusing on the defense and aerospace sectors. AeroVironment stands out from its competitors by emphasizing sustainability and environmental responsibility in its business practices, which not only helps the environment but also builds loyalty among employees and customers. The company's goal is to lead the market in intelligent robotic systems while promoting sustainable practices and creating new business opportunities.

Monrovia, CaliforniaHeadquarters
1971Year Founded
$20.3MTotal Funding
IPOCompany Stage
Robotics & Automation, Aerospace, DefenseIndustries
501-1,000Employees

Benefits

Health, Dental, & Vision
Health Savings Account
401(k) Account
Alternative Work Schedule
Educational and Tuition Assistance Programs
Employee Assistance Program
Sick Leave Donation
Time Off
Travel Assistance
Company Sponsored Events

Risks

Competition from European drone companies like Parrot may impact market share.
US-China trade tensions could disrupt AeroVironment's supply chain.
BlueHalo acquisition poses integration risks and management distraction.

Differentiation

AeroVironment specializes in unmanned aircraft systems for defense and commercial markets.
The company focuses on sustainability and innovation in autonomous robotic systems.
AeroVironment's acquisition of BlueHalo enhances its defense technology capabilities.

Upsides

Increased demand for Western-made drones boosts AeroVironment's market share.
BlueHalo acquisition enhances AeroVironment's competitive edge in defense technology.
Customizable AI UAVs attract new military contracts with enhanced adaptability.

Land your dream remote job 3x faster with AI