COLSA Corporation is seeking an Aerospace Engineering Intern (sUAS Development) to join our Uncrewed Systems division for the Summer 2026 term (June 1-July 31). This role offers hands-on experience in the design, testing, and optimization of drone structures, propulsion systems, and mechanical components in a fast paced engineering environment. You will work alongside experienced engineers to develop real-world solutions and gain exposure to the full product development lifecycle from concept and prototyping to integration and flight testing.

During this internship you will:

• Apply aerospace engineering design principles to support the rapid design, development, testing, integration, and deployment of UAS systems, payloads, and ground support infrastructure in both indoor and outdoor environments.
• Assist the production team with post-processing of additively manufactured parts.
• Manage assigned intern projects from initiation to completion.
• Support assembly, integration, and testing of mechanical and electrical drone subsystems
• Participate in rapid prototyping and fabrication including 3D printing
• Support experienced engineers by engaging in CAD tutorials, performing basic CAD tasks, developing Excel spreadsheets, actively participating in engineering meetings and discussions, and assisting (under supervision) with UAS system testing and development.
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and efficient engineering and production workspace

At COLSA, people are our most valuable resource and centered at our core value. We invite you to unite your talents with opportunity and be a part of our “Family of Professionals!” Learn about our employee-centric culture and benefits here: https://www.colsa.com/culture_benefits/

Required Skills

Required Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Actively enrolled in an undergraduate degree program in Aerospace Engineering no later than the start of the internship (June 1)

• Junior or Senior standing at the time the internship begins (June 1)

• Foundational role-specific knowledge or skills, such as:

  • Background with fabricating prototypes such as 3D printing or machining
  • Classroom or project experience using precision measurement tools (calipers; micrometers ect)
  • Ability to read and create basic engineering drawings including dimensions and tolerances
  • Understanding of propulsion mechanics as it relates to aircraft or aerospace

• U.S. Citizenship required; must be able to successfully pass criminal background check prior to start date

• Relocation assistance or a housing stipend is not provided; however, candidates needing housing in the Huntsville area may wish to explore local options such as the University of Alabama in Huntsville’s summer intern housing program, which is designed for visiting interns at: https://www.uah.edu/housing/intern-application

Preferred Experience:

• Experience participating in hands-on aerospace or UAV competitions (e.g., Design/Build/Fly (DBF), SAE Aero Design, or similar), involving aircraft design, fabrication, and flight testing
• Experience building, modifying, or operating UAS/drone platforms
• Exposure to CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360) beyond basic coursework
• Experience with additive manufacturing and rapid prototyping in a lab or workshop environment
• Basic knowledge of electronics, wiring, or soldering related to embedded systems or UAV components
• Familiarity with MATLAB, Python, or similar tools for analysis, modeling, or automation
• Exposure to testing environments, including data collection, troubleshooting, or iterative design improvements
• Awareness of FAA Part 107 or general UAS operating concepts

Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. COLSA Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.

• Ability to lift up to 85 pounds.
• Excellent communication skills with a professional representation of the company.