IAE Mechanical Engineering Internship - Fall 2026

About the role#

The University of South Florida Institute of Applied Engineering (IAE) is offering a Mechanical Engineering internship for Fall 2026. This role is based at SOFWERX, a facility in Tampa, Florida, focused on collaboration and innovation to address complex challenges for the U.S. Special Operations Command. Interns will operate as temporary USF employees and gain hands-on experience in a research-driven environment.

What you'll do#

• Assist the team with mechanical design for various projects and multidisciplinary engineering problems.
• Participate in the fabrication, assembly, and testing of mechanical systems and components.
• Support engineering evaluations, testing, and data collection activities.
• Assist with prototype integration efforts alongside electrical and software engineering teams.
• Conduct technical research and market analysis regarding emerging technologies.
• Document engineering findings, test results, and recommendations.

What you'll need#

• U.S. citizenship is required due to Department of Defense funding and potential access to Controlled Unclassified Information.
• Current enrollment as a Junior or Senior in a bachelor’s degree program for Mechanical Engineering.
• A minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Proficiency in 3D modeling with Solidworks and experience with 3D printing.
• Comfort operating general shop tools.
• Strong technical, organizational, and communication skills.

Location & details#

• Location: Tampa, Florida.
• Term: Fall 2026.
• Modality: On-site.
• Pay: $18.50 per hour.
• Time commitment: 15 to 20 hours per week.