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Robotics Engineering Intern Jobs in Washington, DC

Summer 2027 GNC / Autonomy Intern

Herndon, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

We are seeking a motivated GNC Engineering Intern to join our multidisciplinary team. In this role ... or robotics * Strong interest in aircraft systems, GN&C, and aerospace engineering * Basic ...

Summer 2027 GNC / Autonomy Intern

Herndon, VA

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

We are seeking a motivated GNC Engineering Intern to join our multidisciplinary team. In this role ... robotics * Strong interest in aircraft systems, GN&C , and aerospace engineering * Basic ...

Summer 2027 GNC / Autonomy Intern

Herndon, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

We are seeking a motivated GNC Engineering Intern to join our multidisciplinary team. In this role ... robotics * Strong interest in aircraft systems, GN&C , and aerospace engineering * Basic ...

As an Applied Technologies Intern, you will work alongside engineers and scientists to support the ... Contribute to a defined automation, robotics, or systems engineering project under the guidance of ...

New

As an Applied Technologies Intern, you will work alongside engineers and scientists to support the ... Contribute to a defined automation, robotics, or systems engineering project under the guidance of ...

New

Software Engineer Intern

Herndon, VA · On-site

$29 - $53.50/hr

Intern, Software Engineering Job Code: 39382 Job Location: Herndon, VA Job Schedule: 9/80 ... Robotics, OOA/OOD,Hadoop, Android, Embedded Systems PAY TRANSPARENCY: In compliance with pay ...

Showing results 21-40

Robotics Engineering Intern information

See Washington, DC salary details

$12

$21

$33

How much do robotics engineering intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for robotics engineering intern in Washington, DC is $21.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a robotics engineering intern do?

A Robotics Engineering Intern assists in the design, development, and testing of robotic systems under the supervision of experienced engineers. Their tasks often include building prototypes, programming robotic components, performing research, and troubleshooting issues. Interns may also participate in team meetings, document their work, and help improve existing robotic technologies. This role offers hands-on experience and exposure to both hardware and software aspects of robotics, making it a valuable stepping stone for a career in robotics engineering.

What kinds of projects and responsibilities can a robotics engineering intern expect during their internship?

As a Robotics Engineering Intern, you can expect to work on a variety of hands-on projects such as assisting with the design, prototyping, and testing of robotic systems or components. Interns often support senior engineers in debugging hardware and software, conducting research, and documenting their findings. You may also have opportunities to participate in team meetings, collaborate with cross-functional teams like software and mechanical engineering, and contribute to ongoing development cycles. These experiences help interns build practical skills and gain exposure to the real-world challenges of robotics development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a robotics engineering intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Robotics Engineering Intern, you need coursework in robotics, mechanical or electrical engineering, and programming (such as Python or C++), often supported by ongoing enrollment in a relevant degree program. Familiarity with CAD software, microcontrollers (like Arduino or Raspberry Pi), and simulation tools such as ROS is highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and a willingness to learn set outstanding interns apart. These skills and qualities are essential for effectively contributing to projects, adapting to new technologies, and collaborating within multidisciplinary engineering teams.

What is the difference between Robotics Engineering Intern vs Mechanical Engineering Intern?

AspectRobotics Engineering InternMechanical Engineering Intern
Required CredentialsEnrolled in or recent graduate of robotics, electrical, or mechanical engineering programsEnrolled in or recent graduate of mechanical engineering programs
Work EnvironmentHands-on robotics projects, automation systems, programmingDesign, testing, and manufacturing of mechanical systems
Industry UsageRobotics companies, automation firms, research labsManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, product design

Robotics Engineering Interns focus on developing and testing robotic systems, combining programming and mechanical design. Mechanical Engineering Interns work on designing and analyzing mechanical components and systems. While both roles involve engineering principles, robotics interns specialize in automation and robotics technology, whereas mechanical interns focus on traditional mechanical systems.

Infographic showing various Robotics Engineering Intern job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,501 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Summer 2027 GNC / Autonomy Intern

AeroVironment

Herndon, VA • On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist in the design and development of GN&C systems for aircraft projects

  • Support system testing, including simulation environments and flight test preparations

  • Help implement and test basic flight control algorithms under supervision


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

Summer Internship Program Our paid Summer Internship Program is designed to provide students with an immersive, hands-on experience within the aerospace and defense industry. Interns work alongside AV team members on meaningful projects involving cutting-edge technology while developing professional relationships, strategic problem-solving skills, and practical experience in a full-time work environment.

This is a 12-week, onsite program intended for highly motivated and passionate students who are currently enrolled in college or are recent graduates. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, with a preference for students at the junior level or above.

Our program has been recognized by Yello and WayUp as one of the Top 100 Internship Programs in the United States for multiple years.

Depending on the team and location, students who are willing to relocate for their internship may be eligible for a relocation and housing reimbursement stipend.

AV offers internship opportunities across various teams and locations throughout the United States. Specific team, location, and program details will be discussed during the interview process.

We are seeking a motivated GNC Engineering Intern to join our multidisciplinary team. In this role, you will support projects related to Guidance, Navigation & Control (GN&C), flight testing, software, and hardware development. This internship offers a hands-on learning opportunity in aerospace systems, providing exposure to flight control systems, testing procedures, and system integration. You will work under the guidance of experienced engineers and gain valuable experience in a fast-paced R&D environment.

Internship Responsibilities

  • Assist in the design and development of GN&C systems for current and future aircraft projects

  • Support system testing, including simulation environments (e.g., SIL/HIL) and basic flight test preparations

  • Help implement and test basic flight control algorithms under supervision

  • Participate in subsystem integration and data analysis activities

  • Support engineering documentation and report writing

  • Collaborate with engineering and test teams to troubleshoot and validate technical solutions

  • Learn and apply engineering processes and tools relevant to flight systems

  • Perform other duties or learning assignments as needed

Basic Qualifications

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

  • Completed coursework in one or more of the following areas: GN&C, flight dynamics, control systems, embedded systems, or robotics

  • Strong interest in aircraft systems, GN&C, and aerospace engineering

  • Basic proficiency in MATLAB, Simulink, or similar modeling tools is a plus

  • Effective communication skills and a collaborative attitude

  • Must be eligible to work in the U.S. and willing to travel domestically (up to 10-20%, if needed)

Preferred Qualifications

  • Familiarity with any of the following: PCB design, embedded programming, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, or flight software development

  • Hands-on project or lab experience involving control systems or autonomous vehicles (e.g., drones, robotics projects)

  • Enthusiastic about learning and contributing to real-world aerospace projects

  • Ability to adapt in a dynamic team-oriented environment

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to work in an office, lab, or test environment

  • May require standing or sitting for extended periods and use of standard office equipment

This internship is designed to provide practical experience and skill development in aerospace engineering, particularly in the GN&C discipline. Interns will leave with a better understanding of how flight systems are developed, tested, and integrated in real-world applications.

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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