Intern, Technical Support (Systems Engineer Intern)

As a Systems Engineer Intern at General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, your responsibilities will include performing support tasks within the Munitions Systems Engineering department. Initially, you’ll be engaging in administrative tasks and gradually taking on more complex technical projects that align with your education level. You'll assist with equipment setup, monitor tests and experiments, collect data, and compile summaries and reports. This role allows you to apply your engineering skills in a dynamic environment while learning from experienced professionals.

To qualify for the Systems Engineer Intern position at General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, you must be currently enrolled in an Engineering Systems, Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, or a related degree program, or be within six months of graduation. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications such as Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint is essential. Additionally, having excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment is crucial for success in this internship.

Success as a Systems Engineer Intern at General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems requires a mix of technical and interpersonal skills. You should demonstrate organizational and prioritization abilities, along with a strong attention to detail. Problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a team setting are paramount. Being receptive to feedback and showing a willingness to learn will also enhance your experience, as you engage with various internal and external stakeholders.

The work environment at General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems for a Systems Engineer Intern is collaborative and innovative, encouraging creative thought and exploration of new ideas. You'll be part of a team that values contributions and supports professional development in a flexible setting. Interns have the opportunity to shadow experienced engineers, work on real-time projects, and contribute to mission-critical operations, fostering both personal and professional growth.

General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems provides its Systems Engineer Interns with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and life insurance options. Interns can also access a 401k plan, paid time off, and family leave. In addition, there are voluntary benefits such as health and wellness support programs, educational assistance, and various insurance options, creating a supportive environment for both work and life balance.

When answering this question, highlight any specific technical projects you've worked on during your studies or internships. Discuss the goals of those projects, the roles you played, and any methodologies you utilized. Make sure to emphasize the outcomes and how they relate to real-world engineering applications, particularly in the context of military or defense systems, if applicable.

Discuss the software tools that you are familiar with, such as Microsoft Office Suite, CAD software, or any modeling and simulation tools. Elaborate on how you've used these tools for data analysis, project presentations, or simulation work in your engineering coursework or previous internships, connecting them to the needs of the Systems Engineer Intern role at GD-OTS.

Provide a scenario where you had multiple tasks with tight deadlines. Explain the strategies you used to prioritize these tasks, such as creating a to-do list, using deadlines to guide your focus, or assessing the impact of each task. Emphasize your use of discretion and independent judgment, which are important skills for a Systems Engineer Intern.

Reflect on a relevant group project or experience. Describe the team's objectives, your specific role, and how teamwork played a crucial part in achieving success. Highlight any challenges faced and how collaboration led to solutions, showcasing your commitment to team success, a key aspect of the role at GD-OTS.

Express your passion for engineering and its role in supporting national defense and security. Discuss any specific interests in technologies used in the industry and how you see yourself contributing to GD-OTS's mission. Link your motivations to the impact engineering has on the lives of service members and the importance of innovation in the field.

Share your perspective on constructive criticism as a valuable tool for growth. Give an example of receiving feedback in an academic or internship setting and how you incorporated it into your work to improve your skills. This demonstrates your willingness to learn and adapt, which is essential for a Systems Engineer Intern.

Identify specific engineering concepts or tasks that you find challenging and explain the steps you take to overcome these difficulties. Discuss your resourcefulness in seeking help, utilizing additional resources, or collaborating with peers to address challenges, showcasing your proactive and resilient attitude.

Articulate your enthusiasm for GD-OTS as a leading defense contractor. Mention specific programs or projects of the company that interest you and align with your educational background and career goals. Discuss how the values of the company resonate with you and your desire to contribute to meaningful work supporting military operations.

Choose a project that showcases your skills relevant to systems engineering. Describe your role, the contributions you made, and the impact of your involvement on achieving project objectives. Illustrate your ability to take initiative and work collaboratively, which aligns with the expectations for a Systems Engineer Intern at GD-OTS.

Highlight the importance of communication, respect for different perspectives, and the willingness to learn from others. Provide an example where you successfully engaged with a diverse team, illustrating how varied backgrounds and experiences contributed to the project's success. This showcases your adaptability, a valuable trait for a Systems Engineer Intern at GD-OTS.