Engineering Intern

Performance Drone Works (PDW) builds technologies for the warfighter, by the warfighter. Born out of the Drone Racing League, our roots are competitive, our mindset is tactical, and our mission is clear: deliver purpose-built unmanned systems to those who serve. We are not here to sell vapor; we build and ship real capabilities for real missions. 

Now, we’re entering a new phase of growth and are looking for an Engineering Intern to support our mechanical and software engineering teams over the summer. This is a hands-on role where you’ll contribute to active programs, work alongside senior engineers, and gain real-world experience across the full product development lifecycle. 

What You’ll Do 

• Support the engineering team with mechanical and/or assembly support 

• Support design, analysis, and documentation of mechanical components and assemblies; create and revise CAD models and engineering drawings. 

• Assist with hands-on fabrication, assembly, build, and test activities as needed. 

• Develop, test, and debug embedded or application-level software in support of active programs; write clean, documented code (C/C++, Python, or other applicable languages). 

• Participate in design reviews, program check-ins, and cross-functional team meetings. 

• Document test results, design decisions, and project status clearly and accurately. 

• Communicate progress, blockers, and results to your supervisor; collaborate effectively in a fast-paced, small-team environment. 

Requirements 

• Currently enrolled in an accredited Bachelor’s or Master’s program in Mechanical Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related field. 

• Completion of at least two years of undergraduate coursework by the start of the internship. 

• Strong academic performance and genuine curiosity about applied engineering. 

• Ability to work on-site in Huntsville, AL for the duration of the internship. 

Preferred 

• Coursework or project experience in mechanical design and/or software development; familiarity with SolidWorks, MATLAB, or common IDEs. 

• Prior internship, co-op, research, or hands-on project team experience (academic capstone projects count). 

• Comfort working in an unstructured environment where initiative and problem-solving are expected. 

Physical Requirements 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 50 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office and laboratory equipment as well as hand tools, soldering equipment, and electronic test instruments. Must be physically capable of working in a lab and light manufacturing environment, including standing for extended periods during build and test activities. 

Work Environment 

This position operates in a combination of office, lab, and light manufacturing environments at our Huntsville, AL facility. This role requires use of standard office and engineering equipment and may involve exposure to electronic components, hand tools, soldering equipment, and mechanical hardware, and may require occasional travel to test sites or customer locations. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross-departmental collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities. Standard work hours for this internship are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, with occasional overtime as program needs demand. 

Benefits 

PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.

• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.

• Paid Parental Leave. 

• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation. 

• On-site gym at our Huntsville, AL location.

• Employer provided life insurance.

• Robust Employee Assistant Program (EAP).

• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

EEO Statement 

PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Engineering

Huntsville, AL

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