Summer System Test Engineering Intern at AeroVironment Simi Valley, CA

Our Summer Internship Program is meticulously designed to provide students with an immersive and dynamic experience within our industry, offering a taste of what it's like to be part of our professional team. We strive to simulate a full‑time job, enabling our interns to work hands‑on with cutting‑edge technology, contribute to meaningful projects, build strong relationships with coworkers, and develop strategic problem‑solving skills.

We are hiring for various roles and locations throughout the U.S. During the interview process, we will discuss specific details regarding the team and location.

• Assist in the execution of system‑level and flight tests, supporting UAV ground and flight operations
• Help prepare test plans, procedures, and test cards to verify system and subsystem performance
• Participate in test readiness reviews, test briefs, and post‑test debriefs
• Set up and operate test instrumentation and equipment under supervision
• Capture and organize test data, fill out test documentation, and assist with post‑flight data uploads and logs
• Analyze test data using Excel, MATLAB, or similar tools to help evaluate performance
• Support test anomaly tracking and assist with issue reporting
• Contribute to test asset preparation, including hardware/software setup and functional checks
• Collaborate with UAV operators, technicians, and other engineers during live test events
• Perform other duties as assigned to support test and integration efforts

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Systems, Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline
• Familiarity with engineering fundamentals and exposure to test procedures, lab work, or data collection through coursework or projects
• Strong interest in systems engineering, testing, flight operations, or aerospace systems
• Comfortable working with data analysis tools like Excel or MATLAB
• Effective communicator with strong attention to detail
• Enthusiastic about learning in a hands‑on, fast‑paced environment

• Exposure to scripting or programming for test automation (e.g., Python, MATLAB,
  
  C)
• Interest in unmanned aerial vehicles or robotics
• Experience participating in a technical team, such as a student design team or research project
• Knowledge of test instrumentation, data acquisition, or telemetry systems (preferred but not required)
• Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently under guidance
• Takes initiative, owns their learning process, and collaborates well with others

Ability to work in office, lab, and outdoor test environments (occasional). Must be able to walk on uneven terrain, lift/carry objects up to 50lbs, and set up test equipment (frequent). Capable of visual tracking of UAVs up to 1km away (frequent). Manual dexterity required for equipment assembly and UAV handling (frequent). Willing to participate in field test environments as part of a collaborative team.

This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). Applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or be authorized for export license approval. Some positions may require current U.S. citizenship due to contract requirements.

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401K with company matching
• 9/80 work schedule with paid holiday shutdown

Aero Vironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other legally protected status.