Mechanical Engineering Intern (Summer, Part-Time) in Anaheim, California at Onboard Systems Hoist & Winch

Signia Aerospace is a global, integrated provider of high-performance systems and specialized components for the aerospace industry. Signia designs, manufactures, and services a wide range of products, that include mission equipment, thermal management systems, engine technology, and propellers. The Signia brands are leaders in their respective markets and provide a compelling value proposition to both aerospace and defense OEMs and end-users.

Onboard Systems Hoist & Winch, located in Anaheim, CA is one of the world’s leading providers of Search & Rescue (SAR) and Human External Cargo (HEC) advanced mission equipment for civil, commercial, and military helicopters.

Position Overview

Location: Anaheim, CA (Onsite)

Schedule: Monday - Friday 20–25 hours per week (flexible within standard business hours)

We are seeking a motivated Mechanical Engineering student for a hands-on summer internship within an aerospace manufacturing environment. This role offers direct exposure to New Product Introduction (NPI) and qualification processes, with the majority of time spent supporting a critical product entering qualification this summer. The intern will work cross-functionally with engineering, manufacturing, and operations teams to help ensure readiness, coordination, and execution of key milestones.

What You’ll Do

New Product Qualification Support (˜75%)

• Support qualification testing activities for a next generation hoist, including test preparation, data analysis, documentation, and process improvement tasks under the supervision of senior engineers.
• Assist in organizing and tracking qualification milestones, deliverables, and dependencies
• Assist engineers in preparing qualification test plan/procedures and test readiness documentation, help identify gaps or risks
• Support test setup activities by verifying instrumentation lists, calibration status, and configuration baselines.
• Assist with test rig setup and teardown under engineer supervision.
• Follow up with internal teams on the status of qualification test unit builds
• Support preparation for design reviews, test readiness reviews, and related meetings
• Maintain clear and up-to-date tracking tools (spreadsheets, dashboards, etc.)

Operational Support (˜25%)

• Assist with ongoing operational initiatives (process improvements, documentation, data tracking)
• Support production or supply chain coordination tasks as needed
• Help identify inefficiencies and propose practical improvements
• Contribute to ad hoc projects within the operations organization

Who You Are

• Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or related field
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and follow through on details
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment
• Proficiency with Excel or similar tools; familiarity with CAD or PLM systems is a plus
• Interest in aerospace manufacturing and product development

What’s In It for You

• Real-world experience supporting aerospace product qualification
• Exposure to cross-functional engineering and operations teams
• Insight into manufacturing, supply chain, and program execution
• Opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a high-impact product launch

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or other legally protected status