Mechanical Engineering Intern (Summer 2026)

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Grid Aero

Mechanical Engineering Intern (Summer 2026)

San Leandro, CA
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    Job Title: Mechanical Engineering Intern (Summer 2026)
    Company: Grid.aero
    Location: Onsite 3 days/week [San Leandro, CA]

    About Us:
    Grid.aero is a VC-backed aviation startup tackling complex challenges in both defense and commercial markets. We are focused on solving real-world problems that will shape the future of the industry. Led by aerospace veterans and supported by leading venture firms, Grid is at the forefront of developing autonomous systems that will revolutionize how goods move through the skies.

    Be part of a fast-growing, high-impact startup from day one. At Grid, your work will shape critical industries, driving innovation at the intersection of national security and global commerce.

    Role Overview:
    We are seeking a Mechanical Engineering Intern (Summer 2026) to support the development of structures and mechanical systems for our family of autonomous cargo aircraft. This role offers a rare opportunity to work hands-on on real flight hardware while collaborating closely with experienced aerospace founders and a small, highly capable engineering team.

    As an intern at an early-stage company, you'll gain exposure across the full product lifecycle — from early design and analysis through fabrication, integration, and test. You'll have direct access to leadership, meaningful ownership of scoped engineering work, and the chance to make tangible contributions to an aircraft program moving toward flight.

    If you're excited about building real aerospace hardware, learning fast, and contributing to something ambitious, this internship is for you.

    What You'll Do:

    • Scope: Support the design and development of aircraft structures and mechanical systems, which may include airframe components, landing gear, flight controls, propulsion installations, payload systems, and other flight-critical hardware.

    Projects may include:

    * Developing Static and Dynamic Structural Test Fixtures
* Developing Payload System Mock-Ups
* Developing Fuel Tank and System Mock-Ups
* Planning, Executing, and Reporting Fastened Joint Fatigue Tests
* Planning, Executing, and Reporting Accelerated Corrosion Tests
* Performing aerodynamic and structural trade studies
* 3D Scanning of Components
* Updating Material/Hardware Libraries in PDM
* Developing Military/Civil Certification Requirement/Compliance Matrices
    • Collaborate: Work closely with systems, aerodynamic, mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to understand requirements, evaluate trade studies, and solve multidisciplinary engineering problems.
    • Design: Create CAD models, layouts, and simple assemblies for mechanical systems and structures, applying first-principles engineering and guidance from senior engineers.
    • Build: Assist with sourcing parts and materials, and support fabrication, assembly, and integration of mechanical hardware.
    • Test: Help prepare and execute ground and flight test activities, including test setup, instrumentation, data collection, and post-test documentation.
    • **Document & Communicate: **Produce clear documentation such as CAD models, drawings, analysis summaries, test reports, and design review materials.
    • Support: Support aircraft structures and mechanical systems through integration and testing, helping troubleshoot issues and iterate on designs.
    • Improve: Contribute to the development of engineering documentation, best practices, and standard operating procedures as the company scales.

    Who You Are:

    • Mission-Driven: You're excited by aerospace, autonomy, and solving hard engineering problems with real-world impact.
    • Hands-On: You enjoy building, testing, and learning by doing — not just working behind a screen.
    • **Curious & Motivated: **You ask good questions, learn quickly, and take initiative when given responsibility.
    • Collaborative: You work well on small, fast-moving teams and communicate clearly with engineers across disciplines.
    • Adaptable: You're comfortable in a startup environment where priorities evolve and everyone wears multiple hats.

    Key Qualifications:

    • Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
    • Strong foundation in core mechanical engineering fundamentals (e.g., statics and dynamics, mechanics of materials, basic thermodynamics, manufacturing technology).
    • Experience with CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks, 3DEXPERIENCE, or similar).
    • Exposure to manufacturing processes, materials, or hands-on projects (coursework, clubs, internships, or personal projects).
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work in a collaborative team environment.
    • Ability to occasionally travel to supplier sites, manufacturing facilities, or testing locations as required.
    • U.S. work authorization required.

    Why Join Grid.aero:

    • Real Hardware, Real Impact: Work on flight-critical aerospace systems — not hypothetical intern projects.
    • Mentorship: Learn directly from experienced aerospace founders and senior engineers.
    • End-to-End Exposure: See how aircraft are designed, built, tested, and iterated in a startup environment.
    • Growth: Develop technical, hands-on, and professional skills that translate directly to full-time aerospace roles.
    • Culture: Join a kind, driven, and mission-focused team building something meaningful.

    Compensation: $20-$30/hr

    Equal Opportunity Employer:

    Grid.aero is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

    Legal Notice:

    Grid.aero is committed to complying with U.S. export control laws. Due to the nature of our work, candidates must be U.S. persons (U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)).