About the role#
As a Systems Engineering/Test Intern, you will support the developmental and flight testing of small unmanned aerial systems and related subsystems. You will work alongside experienced engineers and cross-functional teams to plan, execute, and analyze tests across ground, simulation, and flight environments. This is a 12-week, full-time, on-site internship for Summer 2027.
What you'll do#
- 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 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, maintain test documentation, and assist with post-flight data uploads and logs.
- Analyze test data using Excel, MATLAB, or similar tools.
- 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.
What you'll need#
- Current pursuit of a Bachelor’s degree in Systems, Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Minimum 3.0 GPA.
- Familiarity with engineering fundamentals and exposure to test procedures, lab work, or data collection.
- Strong interest in systems engineering, testing, flight operations, or aerospace systems.
- Comfort working with data analysis tools such as Excel or MATLAB.
- Effective communication skills and strong attention to detail.
- Experience participating in a technical team, such as a student design team or research project.
- Exposure to scripting or programming for test automation, such as Python, MATLAB, or C.
- Knowledge of test instrumentation, data acquisition, or telemetry systems is preferred.
- U.S. Citizenship is required, along with the ability to obtain a security clearance.
Location & details#
- Location: Moorpark, California.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Modality: On-site.
- Physical requirements: Ability to work in office, lab, and outdoor test environments. Must be able to walk on uneven terrain, lift or carry up to 50 lbs, and perform visual tracking of UAVs up to 1 km away.
About AV
AV is a public company based in Arlington, Virginia, that specializes in defense and space manufacturing. The firm develops unmanned aircraft systems, ground robots, and software for autonomous platforms. It employs 3,034 people across multiple locations in the United States and Germany. The company focuses on integrated capabilities for modern defense missions.
How to get in at AV
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