IAE Mechanical Engineering Intern - Summer 2026

The University of South Florida (USF) Institute of Applied Engineering (IAE) provides agile, best-value engineering solutions to enhance the performance and effectiveness of its sponsors, including the Department of Defense; other federal, state, and local agencies; and industry. These engineering solutions include hardware-and-software-based research, advanced technology development, prototypes, and technical services.

The Mechanical Engineering Intern will support USF IAE engineering projects focused on prototype development, mechanical design, fabrication, and testing. This position provides an opportunity to work on multidisciplinary engineering efforts supporting defense, research, and advanced technology initiatives.

The internship program is administered by USF Institute of Applied Engineering. Upon hire, you will be considered a USF IAE Temporary Employee. U.S. Citizenship is strongly preferred due to the nature of Department of Defense-sponsored projects and future security clearance opportunities.

Because this internship is partially funded by the Department of Defense, U.S. Citizenship is required for eligibility. 

Time Commitment

Hours of operation are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday. 

Minimum 15 hours and maximum 20 hours per week during Fall/Spring semesters. 

Internship is primarily in-person at USF IAE facilities with limited remote work opportunities. 

Opportunities

Participate in prototype design and engineering development projects. 

Gain experience with advanced manufacturing and rapid prototyping technologies. 

Work alongside engineers supporting Department of Defense initiatives. 

Build technical and professional skills applicable to industry and government careers. 

Opportunity for continued internship employment based on performance. 

Letter of recommendation available upon request. 

Pay Rate

$18.50/hour

• Support mechanical design activities for engineering prototypes and research projects. 
• Develop 3D models, assemblies, and engineering drawings using SolidWorks. 
• Assist with fabrication, assembly, and testing of mechanical systems and components. 
• Operate and maintain additive manufacturing equipment, including 3D printers. 
• Support engineering evaluations, testing, and data collection activities. 
• Assist with prototype integration efforts involving electrical and software engineering teams. 
• Conduct technical research and market analysis on emerging technologies and engineering solutions. 
• Document engineering findings, test results, and recommendations.

• U.S. Citizenship is required due to this position being partially funded by the Department of Defense. 
• Pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline. 
• Junior or Senior standing with a minimum GPA of 3.0. 
• Experience with SolidWorks CAD software. 
• Experience with 3D printing and rapid prototyping techniques. 
• Familiarity with manufacturing methods, fabrication processes, and mechanical assembly. 
• Comfortable operating general shop tools and laboratory equipment. 
• Strong technical problem-solving abilities. 
• Effective written and oral communication skills. 
• Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced engineering environment. 
• Experience with robotics, mechatronics, product development, or prototype fabrication is preferred.

Working at USF

With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF‘s rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida’s best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state’s 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

About USF 

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF’s Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu.

Compliance and Federal Notices

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws: 

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.  This job description does not constitute an employment contract.