Mechanical Engineer
Cookeville, TN · On-site
... of payloads or vehicles. * Help evaluate and select materials and processes suitable for ... internships, co-ops, or strong project/coursework) in mechanical design, ideally for rugged ...
Mechanical Engineer
Cookeville, TN · On-site
... of payloads or vehicles. * Help evaluate and select materials and processes suitable for ... internships, co-ops, or strong project/coursework) in mechanical design, ideally for rugged ...
Internship Payload information
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a payload intern, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Payload Intern, you generally need a background in engineering, physics, or a related STEM field, alongside strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and programming languages like Python or MATLAB is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills that set candidates apart. These abilities ensure accurate payload design, smooth collaboration, and successful project execution in aerospace or related industries.
What is an internship payload?
Internship Payload positions are entry-level internships focused on supporting the design, development, testing, or integration of payload systems in aerospace, satellite, or similar engineering fields. These roles typically involve hands-on work with payload hardware or software, data analysis, and collaboration with engineering teams to ensure mission requirements are met. Interns in these positions gain valuable experience in real-world aerospace projects, working closely with experienced professionals and learning about the challenges and technologies of payload systems.
What kind of projects or tasks can an intern expect to work on in a payload internship?
As a Payload Intern, you can expect to contribute to a variety of hands-on projects that support the design, integration, and testing of payload systems, such as satellites, scientific instruments, or cargo modules. Typical responsibilities may include assisting with hardware assembly, conducting data analysis from test results, documenting procedures, and collaborating with engineers to troubleshoot issues. You'll often work within a multidisciplinary team, gaining exposure to both technical and project management aspects. This role offers the opportunity to develop practical skills and gain insight into the full lifecycle of payload development.
What is the difference between Internship Payload vs Data Analyst?
| Aspect | Internship Payload | Data Analyst |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Typically pursuing or recent graduate, some technical skills | Bachelor's degree in related field, technical skills often required |
| Work Environment | Entry-level, training-focused, temporary | Full-time, professional, ongoing |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Internship programs across industries, educational institutions | Business, finance, healthcare, tech companies |
| Search & Comparison Intent | Learning, entry-level opportunities, career exploration | Career development, skill enhancement, job search |
Internship Payload is an entry-level, temporary position aimed at gaining experience, often for students or recent graduates. Data Analyst roles are more permanent, requiring specific skills and credentials, focusing on analyzing data to support business decisions. While both involve working with data, the internship is a stepping stone, whereas the Data Analyst position is a professional career role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Payload jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Payload jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Internship Payload jobs in Tennessee? For Internship Payload jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Internship Payload jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Internship Payload jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Internship Payload jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Internship Payload job openings:
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO
Re-posted 11 days ago
Job description
Valinor is a new type of defense and government tech company focused on solving the problems others don't. Our unique model of centralized go-to-market and decentralized engineering allows us to move with unparalleled efficiency to identify unmet needs, build right-sized solutions, and get products where they matter most - in the hands of users. Unlike others in the space, who focus on the flashy problems, Valinor exists to solve the quiet, unaddressed problems-the small but significant ones that lead to cracks in the country's strength, stability, and security.
Backed by General Catalyst, Founders Fund, and Red Cell Partners, Valinor was founded in 2024 and has established strategic partnerships with Palantir, Anduril, and Helsing. We are building the dream team, and we want you on it.
About the Role
Valinor Dispatch is developing ruggedized, field-deployable UxS charging infrastructure for defense applications and is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to support structural, thermal, and system-level design of next-generation platforms for deployment in austere environments.
What You'll Do
What We're Looking For
What Valinor Offers
This role requires the candidate be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. Active clearance preferred, but not required.
Valinor is an equal-opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. The Valinor team is made up of incredibly talented and unique individuals, who together are disrupting industry norms by creating new paths towards the future of defense and government technology. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. If you are someone passionate about working on problems that have a real-world impact, we'd love to hear from you!
Backed by General Catalyst, Founders Fund, and Red Cell Partners, Valinor was founded in 2024 and has established strategic partnerships with Palantir, Anduril, and Helsing. We are building the dream team, and we want you on it.
About the Role
Valinor Dispatch is developing ruggedized, field-deployable UxS charging infrastructure for defense applications and is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to support structural, thermal, and system-level design of next-generation platforms for deployment in austere environments.
What You'll Do
- Support the design, prototyping, and iteration of mechanical systems for autonomous charging infrastructure (e.g., docking stations), including enclosures, mounts, structural frames, and environmental protection systems, under the guidance of senior engineers.
- Assist with structural, thermal, and dynamic analyses to help ensure reliability under military environmental conditions (MIL-STD-810, vibration, shock, EMI/EMC considerations).
- Contribute to the development of mechanisms for automated docking, retention, alignment, and protection of payloads or vehicles.
- Help evaluate and select materials and processes suitable for ruggedization, manufacturability, and weight/cost constraints.
- Work closely with electrical and software teams to support integration of sensors, electronics, and electromechanical components.
- Create and maintain CAD models, drawings, BOMs, and manufacturing documentation.
- Support prototype fabrication, testing, and refinement in laboratory and field environments, including hands-on build and test tasks.
What We're Looking For
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or closely related field.
- 1+ years of experience (including internships, co-ops, or strong project/coursework) in mechanical design, ideally for rugged, robotics, or mission-critical systems.
- Proficiency with at least one CAD tool (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or similar); exposure to mechanical analysis tools (FEA, CFD) is a plus.
- Familiarity with, or strong interest in, designing for environmental and operational robustness - dust, water, salt, extreme temperatures, shock/vibration, and electromagnetic environments.
- Exposure to AS9100/TDP/MIL-STD related items including MIL-STD-810, MIL-STD-461, or other military/DoD specifications, with willingness to learn (direct experience is a plus, not required).
- Working knowledge of common manufacturing processes (machining, sheet metal, additive manufacturing, assembly), through coursework, projects, or work experience.
- Hands-on aptitude and eagerness to learn rugged design practices, with mentorship provided.
What Valinor Offers
- Competitive salary, equity packages, and benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance - fully covered for employees, 401(k), among others.
- Unlimited PTO and two-week company holiday at the end of every calendar year.
- We are a pro-mental health and pro-family company - we actually encourage employees to spend time with themselves and their families. Valinor also provides fertility benefits to those just beginning that journey.
- Fun work environment - we like to laugh and take care of each other, but we also deeply respect the mission in front of us.
This role requires the candidate be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. Active clearance preferred, but not required.
Valinor is an equal-opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. The Valinor team is made up of incredibly talented and unique individuals, who together are disrupting industry norms by creating new paths towards the future of defense and government technology. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. If you are someone passionate about working on problems that have a real-world impact, we'd love to hear from you!