Mechanical Engineer Intern - Summer 2027

Astronics Advanced Electrical Systems (AES) is seeking a highly motivated Mechanical Engineering Intern – Summer 2027 to join our dynamic and high-performing Mechanical Engineering Team at our Kirkland, WA facility.

This is a full-time, on-site internship position. Candidates local to the greater Seattle/Kirkland, WA area are strongly preferred, as relocation support is not available for this role.

Our paid summer internship offers students the unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the aerospace industry while working alongside some of the brightest minds in mechanical and electrical engineering. As a vital member of our Cabin Electronics Product Group, you will contribute to the development of innovative new in-seat power systems for the commercial airline industry. The group’s EmPower® product line provides a variety of scalable power solutions for aircraft passenger cabins and flight decks. Our systems are used by over 280 airlines, IFE suppliers, and all major aircraft OEM manufacturers worldwide.

Position Summary

We’re seeking creative, driven, and detail-oriented individuals who are eager to put their engineering education into action. As a Mechanical Engineering Intern, you will apply engineering principles to design, evaluate, and support the development of cutting-edge products within the aerospace sector.

Under the guidance and mentorship of our experienced engineering staff, you will engage in design, testing, and research activities, while significantly contributing to impactful, real-world projects. Potential areas of focus include product development and design, product support, and research and testing.

Key Responsibilities

As a Mechanical Engineering Intern at AES, you will:

• Develop and prototype design solutions, leveraging in-house resources such as 3D printing and a benchtop CNC machine.
• Conduct tests to evaluate hardware solutions and performance characteristics in support of design objectives.
• Design product components or hardware using detailed concept descriptions provided by the engineering team.
• Explore and utilize advanced engineering tools, including SolidWorks, SolidWorks Flow Simulation, and ANSYS.
• Build hands-on lab skills through activities such as hardware assembly, environmental testing, and fit checks.

Minimum Qualifications

Education/Experience:

• Currently enrolled in an accredited college/university program with at least three years of coursework completed by the start of Summer 2027.
• Pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline, with an emphasis on thermal-related computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and/or vibrational dynamics preferred.
• Experience designing printed circuit boards and cooling techniques for electronic equipment preferred.

Skills, Competencies, and Attributes:

• Strong attention to detail with excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks effectively and prioritize workload.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills with an aptitude for processing complex inputs and applying logical reasoning.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote).
• Clear and efficient written and verbal communication skills.
• Proactive and self-motivated with the ability to work autonomously, yet willing to collaborate and seek guidance from senior technical staff as needed.

Employment Eligibility Requirements

• U.S. Person Status: As a U.S. Department of Defense contractor, AES must comply with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Candidates must meet the definition of a U.S. Person to be eligible (U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, or U.S. Permanent Resident).
• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check and drug screening (inclusive of cannabis) is required.

Internship Compensation

• This is a paid internship with a competitive hourly rate of $28.00–$30.00, depending on experience and qualifications.
• The position is eligible for holiday pay.

At Astronics Advanced Electrical Systems, we celebrate innovation, foster collaboration, and are dedicated to shaping the future of aviation. Join us this summer and be part of our mission to lead the aerospace industry through groundbreaking electrical power solutions!

Interested candidates, please apply today!