About the role#
This is a 12-week, paid, full-time summer internship based at our Petaluma, California office. You will work on our UAS product line, gaining hands-on experience in the aerospace and defense industry. This program is designed for students who are currently enrolled in college or have recently graduated.
What you'll do#
- 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 like 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 system integration.
- Contribute to documentation and reporting of design progress and test results.
- Learn and assist in configuration control and engineering change processes.
What you'll need#
- Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
- Minimum 3.0 GPA.
- 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.
- Strong communication and organizational skills.
- Familiarity with SolidWorks EPDM or other PDM systems is a plus.
- Exposure to ASME Y14.5 GD&T standards and engineering drawing practices.
- Interest or experience in designing test fixtures or tooling.
- Basic understanding of structural dynamics or thermodynamics.
- Demonstrated problem-solving ability and attention to detail.
Location & details#
- Location: Petaluma, California.
- Modality: On-site.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Legal requirement: This position requires access to information subject to ITAR and EAR regulations. Applicants must qualify as a U.S. person (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee).
About AV
AV is a public company based in Arlington, Virginia, that specializes in defense and space manufacturing. The firm develops unmanned aircraft systems, ground robots, and software for autonomous platforms. It employs 3,034 people across multiple locations in the United States and Germany. The company focuses on integrated capabilities for modern defense missions.
How to get in at AV
Applying early to AV is a distinct advantage because recruiters review applications as they arrive. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, so you apply among the first before the pile grows. This helps you avoid the frustration of submitting your resume to a crowded queue. You can also improve your response rates by reaching out to the right people. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company roles so you can contact them directly to ask about the position or a referral. It is a more effective approach than waiting for a system response.
