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Mechanical Engineering Internships Jobs in California

$35/hr

Opportunities Available As a Mechanical Engineering intern at Stryker, you will be placed in one of the following teams: Research & Development New Product Development R&D interns in New Product ...

$35/hr

Opportunities Available As a Mechanical Engineering intern at Stryker, you will be placed in one of the following teams: Research & Development New Product Development R&D interns in New Product ...

During this internship participants will become part of the mechanical, manufacturing and tooling engineering department which you will be mentor and work beside to contribute to the great innovation ...

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Mechanical Engineering Internships information

See California salary details

$17

$32

$54

How much do mechanical engineering internships jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for mechanical engineering internships in California is $32.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.59 and $37.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mechanical engineering internship?

A Mechanical Engineering Internship is a temporary position designed to provide students or recent graduates with hands-on experience in the field of mechanical engineering. Interns typically work under the supervision of experienced engineers, assisting with tasks such as design, analysis, testing, and manufacturing processes. These internships help build technical skills, industry knowledge, and professional connections. They can take place in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, robotics, and energy.

What types of projects do mechanical engineering interns typically work on during their internship?

Mechanical engineering interns often assist with product design, prototyping, testing, and process improvement projects under the supervision of experienced engineers. Depending on the company's focus, you may work on drafting technical drawings, analyzing data from experiments, or participating in design review meetings. Interns often have opportunities to collaborate with cross-functional teams, learning how engineering integrates with manufacturing, quality assurance, and other departments. These projects are designed to provide hands-on experience and help you develop both technical and professional skills that are valuable for future full-time roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a mechanical engineering internship?

Succeeding as a Mechanical Engineering Intern requires a strong grasp of engineering fundamentals, analytical problem-solving, and proficiency in CAD software, typically supported by coursework or a related degree program. Experience with tools such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, MATLAB, and familiarity with engineering standards are highly valued. Effective teamwork, communication, and eagerness to learn help interns make meaningful contributions and adapt to dynamic project demands. These skills enable interns to support engineering teams, contribute to real-world projects, and gain valuable industry experience.

What are the best mechanical engineering internships?

The best mechanical engineering internships are typically offered by leading manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and technology companies that provide hands-on experience with design, analysis, and manufacturing processes. Successful internships often require strong technical skills, proficiency in CAD software, and a good understanding of engineering principles. These programs usually offer mentorship, networking opportunities, and the chance to work on real-world projects.

Which type of internship is best for mechanical engineering?

The best internships for mechanical engineering students are typically hands-on roles in manufacturing, design, or research and development that provide practical experience with CAD software, prototyping, and testing. Internships in industry or research labs that offer mentorship and exposure to real-world projects help develop technical skills and industry knowledge essential for a career in mechanical engineering.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineering Internships jobs in California?

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering Internships jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Engineering Internships jobs in California?

For Mechanical Engineering Internships jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Internships jobs?

Cities in California with the most Mechanical Engineering Internships job openings:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Internships job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Internship, and 50% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,151 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Intern - Mechanical Engineering

San Diego, CA • On-site

General Atomics
Space Research Administration • 10K+ employees

$30 - $38/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from remotely piloted aircraft to nuclear fuel cycle, airborne sensors, tactical reconnaissance radars, advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.
We have exciting opportunities for Mechanical Engineering Interns in a variety of fields of study, both locally and other locations:
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Testing/ Analysis/ Design
  • Aircraft Design
  • Finite Element Analysis
  • Dynamic Mechanical Analysis
  • Optical
  • Other Engineering Disciplines

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Under general supervision, participates in the day-to-day activities of assigned functional area assisting in the completion of routine and non-routine tasks.
  • Assists in applying knowledge to analyze, investigate and resolve problems.
  • Assists in developing electronic and hard copy reports, records, diagrams and charts.
  • Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
  • Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Requires active enrollment and currently attending as an undergraduate/graduate student at a recognized college or university.
  • Candidates will be required to commit to the 10 week program, two sessions available beginning June 1, 2027 or June 21, 2027.
  • Full- or part-time continuing student enrolled in an accredited U.S. college or university.
  • Applicants who will have completed their undergraduate degree by the time the internship program would begin, must be planning to continue in a graduate program immediately following the conclusion of the internship program.
  • 3.0 cumulative GPA preferred
  • Ability to understand new concepts and apply them accurately.
  • Ability to follow general and detailed instructions as well as organizational policies and procedures.
  • Basic communication and interpersonal skills to enable effective interface with internal professionals.
  • Ability to work independently or in a team environment.
  • Basic computer skills.

This position pays at an hourly rate $30.00 - $38.00/hour, depending on your specific field of study and the number of college years completed.

What General Atomics employees say

Pay

Benefits

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About General Atomics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955