Mechanical Engineering Internship - Summer 2025

Safran DSI Business Unit: Optronics (formerly Optics 1)
 

ABOUT OUR MISSION:

Join the forefront of innovation and make an impact at Safran Defense & Space, Inc.!

Safran Defense & Space Inc. (Safran DSI), headquartered in Arlington, Va., is a leading U.S. aerospace company dedicated to supporting national defense and space missions. As a trusted partner to the U.S. armed forces, government agencies, and commercial sectors, Safran DSI delivers advanced technology solutions through its specialized business units: Assured PNT, Geospatial AI, Optronics, Space Solutions, and Testing & Telemetry.

Headquartered in Bedford, NH, Safran DSI Optronics (formerly Optics 1) is a global leader in full-service design and production of electro-optic and navigation systems. Leveraging core competencies in defense technologies, Optronics provides unmatched, first-class mission solutions for military and law enforcement personnel.

We have a high-paced, high-energy environment focused on acknowledging individual and team successes, as well as overall growth. Optronics is a community that cares about the mission of our customers. Our team believes in supporting and enriching our community through engagement; whether that means giving back to our troops, veterans and their families, investing in next generation innovators through STEM education, or higher education initiatives, giving back is an important part of who we are as a team.

If you’re ready to join our mission and serve those who serve, Safran DSI is the perfect place for you to take your career to the next level. Make a real difference and be part of something extraordinary. Apply now and help us build the future of defense and space.

POSITION PROFILE:

Our engineering internships offer exposure to leading edge optical products and technology through direct participation in the development of hand-held camera systems (thermal, visible, infrared) and laser devices (range finders, aiming lasers, laser illumination). The intern will work closely with members of the engineering staff to conduct testing, reduce data, and assist on active projects. Much of the work will behands-on and in the lab, with opportunities to exercise math models, conduct analysis, or use design software to accomplish tasks.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Design components for DSI Optronics products, production equipment, and test equipment using SOLIDWORKS
• Produce engineering drawings used to fabricate components for Optronics equipment using SOLIDWORKS
• Develop engineering documentation using Microsoft Office products
• Present engineering design information at design reviews
• Prepare engineering bills of materials for Optronics products, production equipment, and test equipment using SOLIDWORKS and ARAS Innovator product lifecycle management tools
• Perform and report on functional and environmental testing of prototype and production Optronics products
• Assemble prototype Optronics products, production equipment, and test equipment
• Create work instructions to document the assembly of Optronics products, production equipment, and test equipment
• Perform finite element analysis on thermal and structural performance of Optronics products and their components
• Produce functional and prototype components of Optronics products, production equipment, and test equipment utilizing mills, lathes, laser cutters, 3D printers and other machine shop equipment

WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO BE SUCCESSFUL:

• Must be actively working towards a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering
• Career interest in product design and development
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Good problem solving skills and strong mechanical aptitude
• Experience with MS Office Suite programs
• Computer Aided Design (CAD) experience, preferably SOLIDWORKS
• Strong time management skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Ability to set and accomplish goals
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with ability to work effectively with individuals at all levels
• U.S. Protected Individual status required (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, asylee, refugee or temporary resident (as defined at 8 USC 1160(a))

IDEALLY, YOU’LL ALSO HAVE:

• Experience working in an ITAR environment
• Experience with metal fabrication equipment, 3D printing, electronics

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.

EOE/AA/M/F/Vets – US Protected Individual status required (US citizen, lawful permanent resident, asylee, refugee or temporary resident (as defined at 8 USC 1160(a).