Electrical Engineering Intern
About the Role
As an Electrical Engineering Intern, you'll join AV's Test Equipment Engineering Team and contribute to the design, development, and testing of electrical systems for unmanned aircraft and advanced robotics. You'll assist in building and supporting test equipment, writing software, and troubleshooting systems — gaining valuable, real-world experience across the product development lifecycle. This is an exciting opportunity to apply your academic training in a high-tech, fast-paced environment while working alongside experienced engineers and mentors.
Responsibilities
- Assist in the design, development, and troubleshooting of test equipment for printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs), subsystems, and full systems
- Help develop and deploy test software to support hardware integration and validation
- Support the maintenance and upgrade of test systems used during production
- Participate in test plan creation, requirements documentation, and validation strategies
- Assist in executing tests on power systems, avionics, and propulsion components (functional, performance, and environmental)
- Learn and apply engineering best practices, processes, and documentation standards
- Support hardware bring-up, test station calibration, and system verification
- Work collaboratively with cross-functional teams including hardware, software, and systems engineers
- Perform other related duties as assigned to support ongoing engineering efforts
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience):
- Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field
- Academic or personal project experience in one or more of the following: Power electronics, battery systems, or electric motors; Embedded systems, FPGA, or RF systems; Digital and analog circuit design
- Familiarity with electrical protocols such as I2C, SPI, UART, USB, CAN, or LVDS
- Basic programming knowledge in C, C++, or C#
- Exposure to test equipment like oscilloscopes, multimeters, and power supplies
- Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills
- Effective communication skills and ability to work well in a team
Preferred Qualifications & Competencies:
- Hands-on experience with PCB testing, debugging, or electronics prototyping
- Exposure to Visual Studio, Git, or hardware/software integration environments
- Familiarity with version control and defect tracking tools
- Experience with scripting or automation for test procedures (e.g., Python)
- Passion for aerospace, robotics, or defense-related systems
- Demonstrated initiative, accountability, and a willingness to learn
- Ability to manage time effectively and adapt in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
Physical Demands
- Ability to work in an office and light manufacturing/test environment (Constant)
- Required to sit, stand, and use computer equipment for extended periods (Frequent)
- May be required to lift and carry up to 10 lbs. (Occasional)
Pay & Schedule
AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.
Benefits
AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown.