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Internship Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

SPECTRA TECH, Inc.

Design Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

... internships, or professional experience) in: o Mechanical design fundamentals (mechanics of materials; basic thermal response of materials/structures) o Engineering drawings (creation and checking ...

SPECTRA TECH INC

Design Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Support the full engineering lifecycle: requirements development, concept evaluation, detailed ... internships, or professional experience) in: o Mechanical design fundamentals (mechanics of ...

Spectra Tech, Inc.

Design Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Support the full engineering lifecycle: requirements development, concept evaluation, detailed ... internships, or professional experience) in: o Mechanical design fundamentals (mechanics of ...

Merrick & Company

Process Engineer Intern

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$24/hr

Merrick's Summer Internship Program provides students with meaningful, hands-on experience in ... Coursework or experience related to process engineering, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, mass ...

Merrick & Company

Process Engineer Intern

Oak Ridge, TN

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Merrick's Summer Internship Program provides students with meaningful, hands-on experience in ... Coursework or experience related to process engineering, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, mass ...

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All JobsMechanical Engineer JobsInternship Mechanical Engineer JobsInternship Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Internship Mechanical Engineer information

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How much do internship mechanical engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship mechanical engineer in Oak Ridge, TN is $20.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $23.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an internship mechanical engineer do?

An Internship Mechanical Engineer assists experienced engineers with designing, testing, and improving mechanical systems or products. Typical tasks include conducting research, creating drawings or models using CAD software, performing basic calculations, and supporting prototype testing. Interns gain hands-on experience in the engineering field, learn industry standards, and develop problem-solving skills. The role is designed to provide practical knowledge that complements academic learning and prepares students for future engineering careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an internship mechanical engineer?

To thrive as an Internship Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering fundamentals, CAD design, and problem-solving skills, usually supported by progress toward a mechanical engineering degree. Familiarity with software like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and MATLAB, as well as exposure to FEA or 3D printing tools, is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and eagerness to learn help interns contribute effectively and adapt within multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for successfully supporting engineering projects and gaining valuable industry experience.

What types of projects do internship mechanical engineers typically work on, and how much responsibility do they have?

Internship Mechanical Engineers often assist with ongoing engineering projects such as product design, prototyping, testing, or process improvement within a team. While interns may start with smaller tasks like drafting technical drawings or conducting research, they are frequently given the opportunity to contribute to real-world engineering challenges under the guidance of senior engineers. The level of responsibility increases as interns demonstrate proficiency and initiative, allowing them to gain practical experience and make meaningful contributions to the team’s objectives.

What is the difference between Internship Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectInternship Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsEnrolled in or recent graduate of mechanical engineering programBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in training or mentorship programsFull-time professional role in design, analysis, or manufacturing
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, etc.Engineering firms, manufacturing companies, R&D departments
Search & Comparison IntentLearning about entry-level opportunities and training rolesUnderstanding full professional roles and career progression

The main difference between an Internship Mechanical Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer is that the internship is a temporary, training-focused position for students or recent graduates, while a Mechanical Engineer is a full-time professional responsible for designing, analyzing, and developing mechanical systems. Internships provide hands-on experience and industry exposure, serving as a stepping stone to a full engineering career.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What job categories do people searching Internship Mechanical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Internship Mechanical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Internship Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Internship Mechanical Engineer job openings:

Internship Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Internship Mechanical Engineer job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,516 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Graduate Mechanical Engineer

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Salas O'Brien, Inc.
Specialized Design Services • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Salas O'Brien, Inc.external

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Re-posted 29 days ago

Salas O'Brien rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

161st of 454 rated engineering

Job description

Knoxville, TN
800 S Gay St
Suite 2021
Knoxville, TN 37929, USA

Company Overview

At Salas O’Brien we tell our clients that we’re engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That’s why we’re committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.

Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career—and they’ll receive great total rewards along the way.

About Us

Founded in 1975, Salas O’Brien is an employee‑owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow’s requirements are today’s opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.

We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high‑rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.

Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.

Job Description
  • Assists in the preparation or modification of reports, specifications, plans, construction schedules, studies, permits and designs for assigned projects.
  • Uses computer assisted engineering and design software and equipment to prepare engineering and design documents.
  • Aids in client contact and communication pertaining to specific projects.
  • Teams with Senior Engineer and participates in all work the Senior Engineer is performing as an observer.
  • Designs equipment, ductwork, and piping layouts using Revit/BIM to meet project needs.
  • Operates engineering software to solve specific problems, and inputs the data required by the program.
  • Familiarizes themselves with state‑of‑the‑art design and various state and local regulations.
Qualifications
  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or other relevant degree from ABET accredited school.
  • Past experience through co‑op or summer internships helpful.
  • Gain invaluable industry experience and practical engineering skills.
  • Work with a diverse team of professionals, fostering networking opportunities.
  • Access to mentorship and guidance from experienced engineers.
  • Competitive compensation package.
Preferred
  • Bachelors or better in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
  • Past experience through co‑op or summer internships helpful.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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