Mechanical Engineering Intern/Co-Op [Propulsion]

About the role

This opportunity places you directly within the propulsion team where your mechanical engineering focus will be critical during the demanding transition period from initial prototype builds toward low-rate production. You will own the design and iterative update of propulsion mechanical components and sub-assemblies, ensuring they are manufacturable and robust for the production environment. The role requires you to design specific hardware intended for rigorous bench testing and to actively troubleshoot that hardware in collaboration with senior propulsion engineers in real time. You will resolve unexpected design, fit, and integration issues that surface during the first production runs and early builds. A core part of the position is implementing proactive design improvements that simplify assembly sequences, improve repeatability, and actively reduce overall build time. You will be responsible for creating and meticulously maintaining CAD models and detailed drawings while strictly following the established process to ensure full traceability of every design change. Furthermore, you will assist with the hands-on fabrication and assembly of both prototype and production hardware as the team moves toward flight hardware. You will also develop detailed work instructions, specialized fixtures, and supporting tooling to enable efficient and correct assembly on the shop floor.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Design and update propulsion mechanical components and assemblies during transition from prototype builds to low-rate production, ensuring parts are ready for high-volume manufacturing.
• Design hardware for bench testing and support hardware troubleshooting alongside propulsion engineers to quickly isolate and resolve performance issues.
• Resolve design, fit and integration issues discovered during early builds by applying first-principles mechanical engineering analysis.
• Implement design improvements to simplify assembly, improve repeatability and reduce build time through practical process-oriented solutions.
• Create and maintain CAD models and drawings following process to ensure traceability of design changes for regulatory and quality purposes.
• You will Assist with prototype and production hardware fabrication and assembly, handling parts from raw stock to finished components.
• You will Develop work instructions, fixtures or tooling to support assembly, making complex procedures clear and executable on the shop floor.
• Document design changes, build feedback and lessons learned in a structured format to support production ramp up and knowledge retention.
• Interpret engineering drawings and specifications to guide the manufacturing of propulsion hardware with tight tolerances.
• Support testing campaigns by preparing test articles, installing instrumentation, and verifying that hardware meets performance objectives.
• Evaluate vendor capabilities and provide feedback on outsourced components to ensure they meet strict mechanical and safety standards.
• Use simulation tools to perform basic stress and deflection checks on propulsion components before physical build.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align mechanical designs with electrical, software, and thermal requirements.
• Maintain a high standard of organization for design files, revisions, and documentation to prevent errors during fast-paced development.
• Contribute to root cause analysis for hardware failures and help drive corrective and preventive actions.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing a B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field with a strong technical foundation.
• You need Comfortable designing hardware using industry-standard CAD software such as NX or SolidWorks or similar parametric CAD tools.
• Familiarity with common manufacturing processes including machining, casting, and sheet metal work; hands-on fabrication experience strongly preferred.
• You need Enjoys being hands-on-designing, building, and integrating real hardware in a fast-paced engineering environment.
• Able to work independently, take ownership of tasks, and ask good questions when ambiguity or risk is present.
• Strong curiosity, attention to detail, and a genuine desire to make a meaningful impact on a high-stakes engineering program.
• Work onsite at the Long Beach office for 30-40 hours per week consistently for a minimum duration of 10 weeks to ensure continuity and learning.
• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and technical specifications accurately.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to effectively collaborate with multidisciplinary team members.
• Willingness to adhere to company quality standards, safety procedures, and documentation protocols.
• Basic knowledge of GD&T and geometric dimensioning practices is highly valued for precision work.
• Physical ability to handle, assemble, and manipulate mechanical hardware and test fixtures safely.
• Eligibility to work in the United States without sponsorship is required for this position at this time.

Nice to have

• Participation in student project teams such as UAVs, Formula SAE, robotics, rocketry, or similar competitive engineering clubs.
• Experience with rapid prototyping methods including 3D printing, basic machining, and the use of common shop tools.
• It helps if Interest in propulsion systems, electric powertrains, or flight hardware drives deeper engagement with the technical challenges.

Practical notes

This is an onsite role based at the Long Beach office requiring 30-40 hours per week for at least 10 consecutive weeks. The selected candidate will work within a strict timeline to support critical propulsion hardware milestones, meaning consistent attendance and punctuality are essential. Travel is not required for this position, and the work will be conducted entirely within the designated office and shop floor locations. Only candidates eligible to work in the United States without visa sponsorship should apply at this time, as the company is unable to provide sponsorship for this internship or co-op opportunity. All work must comply with the company's safety standards and quality procedures while contributing to a collaborative and learning-focused environment.