Mechanical Engineering Intern

Trossen Robotics – Greater Chicago Area (On-site)

Position: Mechanical Engineering Intern

Employment Type: Internship (Part-time or Full-time, Seasonal)

Location: Downers Grove, IL

This job requires a portfolio to apply. Please have a link to your portfolio on your resume.

We have information on how to make a good portfolio here:

Trossen Robotics is seeking a hands‑on Mechanical Engineering Intern to support our R&D and product development team. This role is ideal for students or early learners who want real‑world experience working on robotics systems and learning how products move from concept to production.

This is not a purely academic role – interns will spend significant time building, testing, iterating, and supporting real engineering projects. You will work closely with our mechanical engineers and production team to help bring robotic systems to life.

If you are someone who likes to build, tinker, and learn by doing, this is an opportunity to gain practical engineering experience that goes beyond the classroom.

• Creating and updating 3D drawings and basic CAD models
• Supporting engineering documentation for production
• Assisting with prototype assembly and testing
• Working with production to help roll out new products to the assembly floor
• Designing and building jigs, fixtures, and test setups
• Performing R&D testing
  , including long‑duration stress testing (e.g., cable testing rigs running 24/7)
• Assisting with fabrication and prototyping (3D printing, laser cutting, light machining, etc.)
• Helping develop experimental components
  , such as molds for gripper fingers and other custom parts
• Organizing and maintaining test data, parts, and engineering materials

• Basic familiarity with CAD software (Fusion 360, Solid Works, etc.)
• Interest in mechanical design, robotics, or product development
• Comfortable working with tools and hands‑on builds
• Basic understanding of manufacturing methods (helpful but not required)
• Strong attention to detail and willingness to follow instructions
• Positive attitude and eagerness to learn

• Real‑world application of mechanical design and prototyping
• How products transition from R&D to production
• Fundamentals of Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA)
• Hands‑on experience with testing, validation, and iteration
• Exposure to robotic systems integration and development workflows
• How to work effectively in a fast‑paced engineering environment

• Currently pursuing (or recently started) a degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• Enjoys hands‑on work more than purely theoretical work
• Curious, self‑motivated, and not afraid to ask questions
• Interested in robotics and building real systems

Trossen Robotics is an industry leader in research and educational robotics. Our platforms are used by major universities, research institutions, and Fortune 100 companies across the United States.

We specialize in the design, development, and integration of robotic manipulators and mobile platforms, and we pride ourselves on giving engineers real opportunities to build and learn.