Mechanical Engineering Intern

Position Summary

FlightWave, a subsidiary of Red Cat Holdings, is looking to fill a Mechanical Engineering Intern position. We are a dynamic and growing drone technology company focused on the manufacturing of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS drones) for use in defense, public safety, and other government security organizations.

In this role, you will be responsible for designing, prototyping, fabricating, testing, and integrating a range of mechanical systems into flight hardware and ground control systems. The ideal candidate will be a hands on individual with proven Engineering understanding, mechanical assembly experience and a can-do attitude.

This internship requires onsite availability between 20-40 hours per week throughout the academic year; candidates seeking summer-only internships are advised to follow FlightWave and Red Cat job posts for future updates.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Create and modify 3D models, detailed drawings, and assemblies using CAD software (SolidWorks, Creo, or similar), ensuring designs meet engineering specifications, manufacturability guidelines, and tolerance requirements
• Support Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) processes by creating, releasing, and managing engineering data, Bills of Materials (BOMs), part numbers, and document revisions within the PLM system under supervision
• Prepare CAD models for rapid prototyping (e.g., 3D printing, laser cutting, or machining), participate in design reviews, build physical prototypes, and iterate designs based on test results and feedback
• Assemble mechanical components, sub-assemblies, and test fixtures following assembly instructions, perform fit checks, and conduct basic functional verification and tolerance stack-up analysis
• Assist in design validation activities, including documenting test setups, recording measurements, comparing results against design intent, and helping prepare reports or presentations summarizing findings
  
  

Required Qualifications

• Proficient in 3D CAD modeling and detailing using industry-standard tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo, CATIA, or Fusion 360), with experience creating complex parts, assemblies, and production-ready drawings
• Experience or strong interest in Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems (e.g., Windchill, Teamcenter, 3DEXPERIENCE, or Arena), including basic data management, BOM creation, and revision control workflows
• Hands-on involvement in rapid prototyping processes, including preparing models for 3D printing, CNC machining, or other fabrication methods, and iterating designs based on prototype performance
• Ability to perform mechanical assembly of components and sub-systems, followed by functional verification, tolerance stack-up analysis, and basic testing/validation to confirm design intent
• Recent graduate or currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (or closely related field), with coursework or project experience in solid modeling, mechanical design, and prototyping preferred
  
  

Additional Desired Qualifications

• Demonstrates strong teamwork and collaboration skills; is approachable, easy to work with, proactive in giving and receiving constructive feedback across design, prototyping, and testing activities
• Brings hands-on mechanical experience from extracurricular activities, personal/side projects, student organizations, or hobbyist work (e.g., building robots, custom prototypes, automotive mods, or maker-space projects), showing initiative and practical application of engineering concepts
  
  

Physical Requirements And Working Conditions

• Must be able to walk, stand, and navigate large indoor and outdoor facilities for extended periods of time.
• Ability to lift, carry, and move materials and equipment weighing up to 25 lbs on a regular basis.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required in designated areas or when performing specific tasks, in accordance with safety protocols and company policy.
• May be required to climb ladders, stoop, kneel, or crouch during inspections, maintenance walk-throughs, or emergency response situations.
• Regular exposure to facility operations including noise, dust, temperature fluctuations, and industrial equipment.
• Occasional off-hours or weekend work required for emergency facility responses or projects as needed
• Requires frequent use of a computer and other standard office equipment for documentation, communication, and coordination tasks.
  
  

Background Check

This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.

EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure

Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.

E-Verify

The company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.

Compensation: $26.50 – $44, plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses.