Mechanical Engineer Intern (Summer 2025)

As a Mechanical Engineer Intern at Electra, your main responsibilities will include assisting with the buildout, operation, and maintenance of manufacturing lines. You’ll work on prototyping to fast-fail design concepts, design and assemble mechanical fixtures, and draft technical documentation regarding build processes and testing outcomes. This hands-on role is designed to give you substantial industry experience while contributing to innovative solutions in sustainable iron production.

To qualify for the Mechanical Engineer Intern position at Electra, you must be actively enrolled in an accredited college or university, pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. You should possess experience with 3D modeling software (preferably SolidWorks) and have strong technical communication skills, both written and oral. Familiarity with GD&T, machine tools, and basic shop equipment is highly beneficial. Preferred qualifications include experience with electrochemical cell components and experimental procedures.

You can expect a rewarding and educational experience during your internship at Electra, where you'll gain hands-on experience in a real-world engineering environment. You’ll have the opportunity to collaborate with talented professionals and work on novel technologies that impact the field of sustainable manufacturing. Electra is dedicated to fostering an environment of growth and learning, ensuring you leave the internship with valuable skills and insights.

The compensation for the Mechanical Engineer Intern position at Electra is competitive, offering $29.00 per hour for undergraduate students and $32.00 per hour for graduate students. This remuneration reflects Electra's commitment to valuing the contributions of interns while providing a beneficial learning experience.

The Mechanical Engineer Intern position is located in Boulder, Colorado. Interns are responsible for securing their own housing for the summer. Electra will provide suggestions for local housing options and assist with connecting you with other interns to help ease the transition.

When answering this question, highlight your experience with SolidWorks or any other 3D modeling software you’ve utilized. Share specific projects or assignments where you successfully designed components or assemblies. Emphasize how your knowledge can contribute to your responsibilities at Electra.

Discuss your methodology for prototyping, mentioning any frameworks or processes you follow. Explain how quickly testing and failing fast can lead to effective iterations, and share examples of past experiences illustrating your ability to apply this concept in design contexts.

Showcase your understanding by explaining the basics of GD&T and how you have utilized it in your past projects. Discuss its importance in manufacturing and engineering and demonstrate your ability to apply these skills at Electra.

Detail your knowledge of safety protocols when working with tools. Mention specific practices you follow, such as wearing protective gear, ensuring tools are properly maintained, and following operational guidelines to prevent accidents or injuries.

Choose a project where communication was key to success. Explain the techniques you used to convey complex technical information clearly to team members or stakeholders. Highlight your conceptual understanding while detailing how you ensured everyone was on the same page.

Share your passion for sustainability and how working in this field aligns with your values. Discuss how conservation and innovative practices impact the environment and industry, and explain why Electra’s mission resonates with your career goals.

Talk about your task management strategies, such as using digital tools or systems to keep track of deadlines. Highlight your ability to assess project urgency and importance, and provide examples of successful multitasking in previous experiences.

Identify key skills relevant to the position, such as technical proficiency, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration. Emphasize how these skills are critical for success in contributing to Electra's innovative projects and team dynamics.

Mention any professional organizations, online courses, or resources you follow to stay informed about trends and advancements in mechanical engineering. Highlight how continuous learning is important to you and how it aligns with Electra's mission of innovation.

Articulate your motivations by connecting your interests in mechanical engineering with Electra’s mission. Speak about how you want to learn from industry experts and contribute to sustainable practices that have a positive impact on the environment.