Worker Type
Supplemental
Summer Internship Program
Our paid Summer Internship Program is designed to provide students with an immersive, hands-on experience within the aerospace and defense industry. Interns work alongside AV team members on meaningful projects involving cutting-edge technology while developing professional relationships, strategic problem-solving skills, and practical experience in a full-time work environment.
This is a 12-week, onsite program intended for highly motivated and passionate students who are currently enrolled in college or are recent graduates. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, with a preference for students at the junior level or above.
Our program has been recognized by Yello and WayUp as one of the Top 100 Internship Programs in the United States for multiple years.
Depending on the team and location, students who are willing to relocate for their internship may be eligible for a relocation and housing reimbursement stipend.
AV offers internship opportunities across various teams and locations throughout the United States. Specific team, location, and program details will be discussed during the interview process.
Summary
As an Aeromechanical Engineering Intern, you will support the development of small unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) 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)
Clearance Level
No Clearance
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 must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment's determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment's business requirements. A "U.S. person" according to the ITAR 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.
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.
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.
U.S. Citizenship required. Must be willing to work on government contracts and have the ability to obtain a security clearance.
