Mechanical Engineer Intern (Summer) in Jersey City, New Jersey at goTenna Inc

Work Type/Locations: Hybrid in Jersey City

About goTenna

goTenna is the world's leading mobile mesh networking company, providing off-grid connectivity solutions for smartphones and other devices, as well as augmenting traditional communications networks. This technology enables mobile, long-range connectivity without cell, Wi-Fi, or satellite connectivity. goTenna's products are currently in use by law enforcement, military, and public safety agencies worldwide. goTenna is a wholly owned subsidiary of Forterra, a leading provider of ground autonomy solutions for the US Department of Defense and other organizations.

About the role:

• goTenna is seeking a motivated, hands-on Mechanical Engineering Intern to support the design, development, testing, and validation of electro-mechanical systems. This role is ideal for a senior-level undergraduate student or recent graduate looking to gain practical experience in product development within a fast-paced, mission-driven engineering team.
• The intern will work closely with experienced mechanical and electrical engineers, contributing to real projects involving RF handheld radios, charging systems, and test equipment. This position emphasizes both CAD design and hands-on prototyping, providing exposure to the full product development lifecycle.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Mechanical Design & CAD
• • Assist in creating 3D CAD models and parametric designs in SolidWorks for:
  • RF handheld radios
  • Charging systems
  • Test fixtures and supporting hardware
  • Support development of assemblies involving plastics, sheet metal, and electronic components
  • Help generate engineering drawings and documentation, including assemblies, subassemblies, and components
• Prototyping & Testing
• • Support prototype and pre-production builds for design verification and validation
  • Assist with mechanical and thermal testing, data collection, and analysis
  • Help evaluate design performance against requirements (fit, durability, thermal behavior, etc.)
• Product Development Support
• • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (mechanical, electrical, manufacturing)
  • Assist in developing and documenting test plans and requirements
  • Contribute to design iterations based on test results and engineering feedback
  • Support transition activities such as BOM updates, documentation, and basic manufacturing support
• Hands-On Engineering
• • Participate in lab work, assembly, and troubleshooting of electro-mechanical systems
  • Assist with 3D printing and rapid prototyping of components and fixtures
    
    

Required Experience:

• Pursuing or recently completed a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• Experience with SolidWorks or similar CAD software (academic or project-based)
• Basic understanding of:
• • Mechanical design principles
  • Manufacturing processes (machining, sheet metal, plastics)
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs. (prototypes, equipment, test setups)
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment

Preferred Experience:

• Exposure to:
• • Electro-mechanical systems or electronics packaging
  • Wire harness routing or cable management design
  • Thermal concepts or basic analysis
• Familiarity with:
• • GD&T (ANSI Y14.5)
  • Rapid prototyping tools (3D printing, laser cutting, etc.)
• Interest in working in a fast-paced, small team environment

What You'll Gain:

• Hands-on experience with real hardware development projects
• Exposure to end-to-end product development (concept → prototype → test)
• Mentorship from experienced engineers in a collaborative environment
• Practical skills in CAD, prototyping, testing, and design iteration

ITAR: U.S. Citizen or Green Card Required

CLEARANCE ELIGIBILITY - This position may require eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. For more information about U.S. Security Clearances: click here. 

Placement at the appropriate job level (entry, senior, etc) will be determined by a combination of years of experience, demonstration of proficiency in this field, and other qualifications.

goTenna is an equal opportunity employer and we value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

goTenna Benefits:

• Equity
• 401(k) plan
• Unlimited PTO
• Parental Leave with Pay
• Holiday pay (including December recess)
• Medical, Dental, Vision and life insurance
• Pre-tax benefits
• Short- and Long-term disability plans
• Professional Development Stipend