R&D Engineering Intern

Description

RAM Aerospace is a leader in aerospace innovation, powering flight and space exploration with precision solenoids, valves, and actuators. Since 1975, we’ve supported missions like the Space Shuttle and continue to deliver mission-critical components for commercial, defense, and satellite systems. Headquartered in St. George, Utah—where we are one of the region's largest employers—and with an advanced facility in Valencia, California, we drive economic growth and offer high-skilled careers in engineering and manufacturing. Across our locations, we build the future of aerospace—on time, with excellence, and as a team. Join us to work on groundbreaking technology and help shape the future of flight and space exploration. Your career takes off here!

As our R&D Engineering Intern, you will step onto the leading edge of aerospace technology. You will work closely with our senior R&D engineers to conceptualize, prototype, and test next-generation solenoids, valves, and actuators. This is a highly hands-on role where you will apply your academic engineering knowledge to solve open-ended, real-world problems. From building experimental prototypes to running advanced thermal and pressure tests in our labs, you will play a direct role in developing the products that will power future space exploration and defense systems.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Prototyping & Assembly: Assist R&D engineers in assembling experimental and proof-of-concept prototypes, providing valuable feedback on assembly steps and component design.
• CAD Modeling & Design: Utilize SolidWorks to create 3D models and engineering drawings for experimental components, custom test fixtures, and prototype assemblies.
• Experimental Testing: Set up and run functional, thermal, pressure, and lifecycle tests on R&D components using specialized laboratory and data acquisition equipment.
• Data Analysis & Modeling: Collect, organize, and analyze test data, comparing physical results against theoretical calculations and finite element analysis (FEA) predictions.
• Technical Documentation: Author detailed, highly organized test reports and maintain thorough records of experimental setups, laboratory activities, and design iterations.
• Literature & Tech Research: Research advanced materials, surface treatments, or electromagnetic technologies to assess their feasibility for future product lines.

Requirements

• Legal: Must be able to pass a comprehensive criminal background check and drug screening.
• ITAR: Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum (due to ITAR requirements).
• Education: Currently enrolled as a Junior, Senior, or Graduate student pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline.
• CAD Proficiency: Hands-on experience with 3D CAD modeling software (SolidWorks preferred) and the ability to interpret technical drawings.
• Technical Aptitude: Strong foundational understanding of mechanical design, fluid mechanics, materials, or electromagnetics. Eagerness to work hand-on in a lab environment with physical tools and measurement equipment.
• Soft Skills: Outstanding curiosity, problem-solving skills, and a proactive attitude. You must possess strong communication skills to document your findings and present them clearly to the engineering team.

We are committed to creating an environment where our employees can thrive both personally and professionally.

EEO (Equal Employment Opportunity)

RAM Aerospace is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law. In addition, it is the policy of RAM Aerospace to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified employees who have protected disabilities to the extent required by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances where a particular employee works.

We welcome former military and law enforcement applicants!