Test Engineer Intern (Fall 2026)

Job Overview

We are seeking a Test Engineer Intern who will work on designing, developing, testing, and optimizing our autonomous surface vessels. This is a hands-on experience, which will allow you to apply your academic knowledge in a real-world setting and contribute to projects that significantly impact national security and maritime innovation.

This internship is ideal for students pursuing aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, mechatronics, robotics, or a related field, and eager to make an impact in the defense tech industry.

Responsibilities

• Support the design and development of hardware and software systems for ASVs

• Support the analysis of ASV hull forms for stability, hydrodynamics, and structural integrity

• Participate in the testing and validation of ASV prototypes and vessel autonomy algorithms, including navigation, object detection, and collision avoidance

• Assist in computational fluid dynamics simulations to evaluate vessel performance

• Conduct research and implement solutions for sensor integration, data processing, and machine learning applications

• Contribute to the integration of propulsion systems, control surfaces, and onboard equipment

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot and refine ASV prototypes

• Ensure vessel designs support mission-specific operational requirements

• Document progress, prepare and write reports, and present findings to the team

• Support the downstream workflow of directed research, design, and build-related tasks

• Execute engineering report writing, data acquisition, and data analysis

• Contribute using hand and power tools, Arduino, and Raspberry PI programming

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's program in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, or a related field

• Experience with design and simulation tools, such as Rhino, AutoCAD, and SolidWorks are a plus

• Experience with engineering calculations, solid modeling, and drawing

• Experience with engineering report writing, data acquisition, data analysis, hand and power tools, Arduino, and Raspberry PI programming

• Preferred coursework in CAD, Machine Element Design, and Solid and Fluid Mechanics

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

• This role requires full-time in office presence (40 hours/week) based at our headquarters in Austin, TX, from August through December

Physical Demands

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer

• Occasional standing and walking within the office

• Manual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment

• Visual acuity to read screens, documents, and reports

• Occasional reaching, bending, or stooping to access file drawers, cabinets, or office supplies

• Lifting and carrying items up to 20 pounds occasionally (e.g., office supplies, packages)

This role requires access to export-controlled information or items that require “U.S. Person” status. As defined by U.S. law, individuals who are any one of the following are considered to be a “U.S. Person”: (1) U.S. citizens, (2) legal permanent residents (a.k.a. green card holders), and (3) certain protected classes of asylees and refugees, as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Saronic does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits.