About the role#
The Propulsion Plant and Ship Systems organization leads the development of structures, shielding, and fluid systems for the COLUMBIA Class. Interns contribute to both design and waterfront engineering activities. You will support submarine construction, technical troubleshooting, and fleet readiness while working alongside shipyard personnel, vendors, and Navy stakeholders.
What you'll do#
- Perform calculations on structures, fluid systems, and other engineered components.
- Ensure designs meet all system requirements and specifications.
- Work in multidisciplinary teams to solve complex propulsion plant or ship system problems.
- Engage with the design workforce, construction trades, and Navy representatives to implement new designs or resolve issues.
- Evaluate material conditions on submarines under construction or in service.
- Provide troubleshooting support on the deck-plate and respond to emergent technical issues.
- Investigate and document technical responses to non-conformances and design changes.
- Modify technical manuals and publications while resolving vendor product issues.
- Communicate with Navy customers through formal technical submittals.
- Support waterfront operations, including module shipments and major lifting evolutions.
- Submit test procedure modifications and support land-based steaming activities.
What you'll need#
- Enrollment as a full-time student pursuing a Bachelor or Masters of Science in Mechanical, Aerospace, Ocean, Chemical, Structural/Civil, Nuclear, Acoustic, Electrical, or Manufacturing Engineering.
- Completion of at least your Freshman year prior to the start of the internship.
- US citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense security clearance.
- Ability to work 40 hours per week for at least eight consecutive weeks between May 2027 and September 2027.
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
- Ability to pass a medically supervised drug screen and a background check.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Location & details#
- Location: Groton, Connecticut.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Modality: On-site.
- Candidates are responsible for arranging their own housing and transportation.
- Available to work at all company sites.
About General Dynamics
General Dynamics produces combat vehicles, nuclear-powered submarines, and business jets. The company operates in 43 countries and maintains its headquarters in Reston, Virginia. It was founded in 1952. The organization employs over 10,000 people and focuses on aerospace, defense, and marine systems.
How to get in at General Dynamics
Applying early for an internship at General Dynamics is a significant advantage because recruiters review applications before the volume becomes unmanageable. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, so you apply among the first and get seen before the pile grows. Reaching out to the right person often beats submitting your resume into a general queue. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company's roles so you can reach out directly to ask about the role or a referral, which materially improves response rates.
