Mechanical Engineering Intern

About the role

The Mechanical Engineering Intern role within the Fluids Systems domain at Hermeus centers on the design and integration of critical fluid circuits for advanced high-speed platforms. You will own the development of hydraulic and fuel systems, ensuring they meet the rigorous demands of next-generation aviation in a defense-focused environment. This position requires you to translate abstract mission requirements into concrete, manufacturable fluid power and storage solutions. You will work directly with the Fluids Team in Los Angeles, a unit dedicated to pushing the boundaries of rapid prototyping and system integration. The internship is structured to align with the Fall academic term, providing a deep, sixteen-week immersion into real-world engineering challenges. Success in this role means producing tangible hardware readiness through detailed layout and concept work that directly supports flight objectives. You will collaborate with defense partners, including the Department of War, to deliver asymmetric capabilities that redefine performance standards. Ultimately, your contributions will ensure that fluid systems are not just functional, but optimized for reliability under extreme operational conditions.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Conduct initial concept synthesis to define fluid system architectures for hypersonic vehicle applications.
• Draft detailed component layouts and assemble baseline geometries for hydraulic and fuel systems using industry-standard CAD software.
• Select fittings, tubing, and valves while rigorously analyzing compatibility under extreme temperature and pressure conditions.
• Document design decisions and create calculation records to substantiate choices during verification and formal review sessions.
• Prepare geometric models for simulation analysis runs and coordinate with analysts to interpret results and refine configurations accordingly.
• Support practical hardware integration by assembling test fixtures and assisting with installation during evaluation cycles.
• Verify parts against specifications, ensuring strict adherence to project standards, safety rules, and quality control protocols.
• Liaise with external partners to clarify technical requirements and ensure component selections align precisely with mission objectives.
• Update project timelines and track task progress diligently to maintain the development schedule throughout the internship season.
• Perform root cause analysis on fluid system anomalies and contribute to corrective action plans.
• Assist in the procurement of standard parts by generating accurate bills of materials and part requests.
• Validate test results and compile data packages that support design closure and decision gates.
• Implement design changes based on test feedback to optimize system performance and manufacturability.
• Maintain organized electronic records of all design iterations, calculations, and communication logs.

Requirements

You must be currently enrolled in a degree program focused on mechanical engineering or a closely related discipline. Completion of at least three years of academic study is required, with entry into your junior or senior year expected. A solid understanding of fluid behavior, thermal effects, and mechanical systems fundamentals is necessary. The ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and apply GDT principles to guide manufacturing and assembly is required. Strong problem-solving skills and the clear communication of technical information in written and verbal formats are essential. You must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for this internship position. This role demands reliable transportation to the Los Angeles facility on a consistent basis. You must comply with all safety protocols and quality standards governing the handling of defense-related hardware. Access to the necessary tooling and personal protective equipment is mandatory for participation in shop floor activities.

Nice to have

Hands-on familiarity with hydraulic components, tubing routing, and sealing methods is advantageous. Experience with simulation packages used for stress, fluid flow, or thermal analysis is preferred. Fluids Team internships provide exposure to tools and methods used in defense aviation development.

About the company

We reclaim the lost art of rapid iterative prototyping to build fast and powerful aircraft on relevant timelines. Our teams design and test high-speed systems that give our nation and its allies clear advantage in the sky. We focus on deterring global threats through disciplined engineering, repeatable experimentation, and reliable execution.

You will refine designs, validate performance, and turn ideas into flying hardware quickly and safely.