Mechanical Engineer Intern

Ignite Digital has an exciting opportunity for a motivated Mechanical Engineer Intern to join our team in a fast-paced, rapid-prototyping lab environment. This internship offers a unique chance to work alongside our expert engineering team on a critical government project, the Tactical Integrated Data Ecosystem (TIDE). The successful candidate will assist in the design, fabrication, and testing of rugged, waterproof telemetry and data collection systems deployed on buoys. This is a hands-on role perfect for a student eager to apply their academic knowledge to real-world mechanical engineering challenges, including CAD design, materials science, and environmental sealing.

Key Responsibilities:
* Assist senior engineers in the mechanical design and development of buoy-based prototypes and waterproof enclosures for electronic systems using CAD software.
* Participate in the hands-on fabrication, assembly, and integration of mechanical components and systems.
* Support the creation and maintenance of technical documentation, including assembly drawings and design specifications.
* Assist in conducting environmental and stress tests to validate the durability, waterproofing, and overall performance of prototypes.
* Collaborate with electrical engineers and technicians to ensure seamless integration of all electronic components, including sensors, batteries, and communication boards, into the mechanical housings.
* Contribute to troubleshooting mechanical issues and developing innovative solutions under the guidance of the engineering team.
* Perform precision hands-on tasks including soldering, creating wire harnesses, and assembling components onto circuit boards as specified by the engineering team.
* Help manage the inventory of mechanical parts and materials for the project.

Qualifications:
* Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program in Mechanical Engineering or a related field from an accredited university.
* A strong desire to work in a hands-on, lab-based environment.
* Basic understanding of mechanical engineering principles, including materials and mechanics.
* Familiarity with 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, AutoCAD) is highly desirable.
* Previous experience with hands-on projects (e.g., academic teams, personal projects, machine shop work, or 3D printing) is a plus.
* Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
* A proactive and enthusiastic attitude with a strong willingness to learn and contribute to team goals.
* Ability to work both independently on assigned tasks and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
* Able to physically assist in lifting, servicing and retrieving deployed buoys. Must be able to assist the TIDE team aboard various boats operating within the Charleston Harbor waterways.
* Must be a US Citizen with the ability to pass a government background investigation.

Salary: $24/hr + dependent on education and experience