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Drone Engineering Internship Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Drone Engineering Internship information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$11

$19

$30

How much do drone engineering internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone engineering internship in Silver Spring, MD is $19.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.63 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drone engineering internship?

A Drone Engineering Internship is a temporary position that gives students or recent graduates hands-on experience in designing, building, testing, and operating drones (unmanned aerial vehicles). Interns typically work with professionals in the field to learn about drone hardware, software, flight systems, and regulatory considerations. These internships provide valuable practical skills and industry exposure, often serving as a stepping stone to a career in robotics, aerospace, or related fields. Duties may include assisting with prototype development, conducting flight tests, analyzing data, and helping with research projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drone engineering intern?

To thrive as a Drone Engineering Intern, you need a solid understanding of aerodynamics, electronics, programming, and a relevant background in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with CAD software, flight simulation tools, and programming languages like Python or C++ is typically expected, along with knowledge of drone-related hardware. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help interns effectively contribute to project development and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for designing, testing, and improving drone systems in a rapidly evolving field.

What types of projects and technologies can I expect to work on during a drone engineering internship?

As a Drone Engineering Intern, you can expect to be involved in hands-on projects such as assembling, testing, and programming drones, as well as assisting with flight operations and data analysis. Interns often collaborate with engineering teams to develop and refine hardware or software components, troubleshoot technical issues, and support prototype testing. This role offers exposure to technologies like embedded systems, sensor integration, and flight control algorithms, providing valuable industry experience and opportunities to contribute to real-world drone applications.

What is the difference between Drone Engineering Internship vs Drone Technician?

AspectDrone Engineering InternshipDrone Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in engineering, robotics, or related fieldsTechnical diploma or certification in drone repair or electronics
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, research facilities, or engineering teamsFieldwork, repair shops, or maintenance facilities
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, aerospace firms, research institutionsDrone service providers, maintenance companies, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference is that a Drone Engineering Internship focuses on designing, developing, and testing drone systems, often involving research and engineering tasks. In contrast, a Drone Technician primarily handles the maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of existing drone equipment. Both roles are essential in the drone industry but serve different stages of drone development and deployment.

What are popular job titles related to Drone Engineering Internship jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

For Drone Engineering Internship jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drone Engineering Internship jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Drone Engineering Internship jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Drone Engineering Internship jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Drone Engineering Internship job openings:

Infographic showing various Drone Engineering Internship job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,531 per year, or $20 per hour.

Summer 2027 Mechanical Engineering Intern

AeroVironment

Annapolis Junction, MD • On-site

$20.50 - $27.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


AeroVironment rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Worker Type

Supplemental


Job Description

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. Our program is highly selective, hosting only a handful of interns each year, ensuring personalized attention and ample opportunities to work closely with AV team members.

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.

Position Responsibilities

  • Assist in the design of mechanical components and systems, including airframes, payload enclosures, ground equipment, launch systems, and electro-mechanical assemblies

  • Create and modify 3D CAD models and assemblies using SolidWorks

  • Support simulation and analysis tasks using tools like SolidWorks Simulation or ANSYS

  • Participate in prototype fabrication, assembly, and testing using in-house tools and rapid prototyping methods (e.g., 3D printing)

  • Help generate technical drawings and bills of materials in accordance with industry drafting standards

  • Collaborate with engineers to support design reviews, testing activities, and integration of mechanical systems

  • Contribute to documentation and reporting of design progress and test results

  • Learn and assist in configuration control and engineering change processes

  • Perform other tasks as assigned to support ongoing development efforts

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

  • Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field

  • Basic experience with 3D CAD software (preferably SolidWorks)

  • Familiarity with mechanical components such as machined parts, sheet metal, plastic parts, or composite materials

  • Exposure to hands-on prototyping, lab testing, or mechanical assembly through academic or personal projects

  • Strong communication and organizational skills

  • Eagerness to learn and contribute in a fast-paced, collaborative environment

Preferred Qualifications & Competencies

  • Familiarity with SolidWorks EPDM or other Product Data Management (PDM) systems

  • Exposure to ASME Y14.5 GD&T standards and engineering drawing practices

  • Interest or experience in designing test fixtures or tooling

  • Basic understanding of structural dynamics or thermodynamics in mechanical design

  • Demonstrated problem-solving ability and attention to detail

  • Self-motivated, proactive, and eager to take initiative

  • Team player who values collaboration and continuous improvement

Physical Demands

  • Ability to work in an office and light R&D lab environment (Constant)

  • Required to sit or stand for extended periods; use hands and fingers to operate a computer or tools (Frequent)

ITAR Requirement:

This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify U.S. person status under the ITAR and the EAR. A "U.S. person" according to their definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee, or asylee. See 22 CFR 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.

Benefits: AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits.

We also encourage you to review our company website at http://www.avinc.com to learn more about us.

Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.

Who We Are

Based in California, AeroVironment (AVAV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we've been at the leading edge of technical innovation for more than 45 years. Be a part of the team that developed the world's most widely used military drones and created the first submarine-launched reconnaissance drone, and has seven innovative vehicles that are part of the Smithsonian Institution's permanent collection in Washington, DC.

Join us today in developing the next generation of small UAS and tactical missile systems that will deliver more actionable intelligence to our customers so they can proceed with certainty - and succeed.

What We Do

Building on a history of technological innovation, AeroVironment designs, develops, produces, and supports an advanced portfolio of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services use the company's hand-launched UAS to provide situational awareness to tactical operating units through real-time, airborne reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, 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.

ITAR


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