The Role
Manufacturing Engineering Intern supporting eVTOL aircraft production through tooling design, manufacturing process development, CNC programming, work-instruction improvement, root-cause analysis, production-data analysis, equipment validation, and Lean/Six Sigma initiatives. The role is onsite in Palo Alto and involves collaboration with technicians and cross-functional teams.
Summary Generated by Built In
Pivotal is the leader in the emerging market of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. We design, develop, and manufacture light eVTOL aircraft and are renowned for the BlackFly aircraft the world's first light eVTOL to fly manned missions and enter the consumer market.
Efficient, compact, and simple, Pivotal aircraft are designed for a wide range of consumer, public service, and defense applications. Our distinctive tilt-aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been flying for over 10 years. Last year we announced our next-generation aircraft, the Helix, which is rapidly progressing toward general release and scalable production in 2026.
Mobility is one of the most highly-valued areas of modern technology investments. This is the right company, in the right space, the right strategy, at the right time. If you are ready for adventure, we invite you to join our amazing team and grow with us.
Responsibilities
- Design, develop and test new tools used for manufacturing assemblies
- Create and improve work instructions gathering technician feedback to improve documentation
- Create and test CNC routing programs for tooling and part creationAssist in developing and optimizing manufacturing processes and workflows.
- Support root cause analysis and continuous improvement projects.
- Collect and analyze production data to identify trends and opportunities.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams on equipment validation and documentation.
- Help implement lean and Six Sigma methodologies to enhance productivity.
Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in a Bachelors or Masters degree program from an accredited university
- Interest in eVTOL industry and personal flight
- Interest in the Manufacturing environment
- Interest in setting up new processes and mapping process flows through a manufacturing shop
- Ability to learn quickly and multi-task in a dynamic and fast-paced work environme
- Strong verbal and written communication, organization, and leadership skills
- Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Able to work onsite in Palo Alto, CA.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with G code and routing tables
- 3D printing experience (preferably experience with Creatlity)
- Experience with cad software (3DX is preferred)
- Experience working with carbon fiber composite materials including "wet layup" and "Pre-Preg" Systems
Attributes aligned with Core Values:
- Safety Above All: Demonstrates a proactive safety mindset by embedding safety into daily work, identifying and mitigating risks, encouraging open dialogue about safety concerns, and continuously improving practices and protocols.
- Customer Focus: Puts customers at the center of every action by understanding their challenges, delivering meaningful value, and supporting their success.
- Work Better Together: Seeks and values diverse perspectives, builds cross-functional relationships, and fosters trust through empathetic, fact-based communication and commitment to shared decisions.
- Be the Pilot: Drives results with clarity and purpose by focusing on what matters most, adapting to change, taking initiative, and owning outcomes.
- Embrace the Unknown: Navigates ambiguity with resilience and bold thinking, challenges the status quo, and combines innovative ideas with practical approaches to overcome obstacles and drive progress.
- Respect for People: Fosters a high-performance culture grounded in respect, professionalism, and support by balancing high expectations with a healthy, collaborative environment and being a trusted, dependable teammate.
Applicants must be eligible for employment in the United States and willing to work onsite at our HQ office in Palo Alto, CA.
Pivotal offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and 401k plans.
Pivotal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Pivotal does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
Skills Required
- Currently enrolled in a bachelor's or master's degree program at an accredited university
- Interest in the eVTOL industry and personal flight
- Interest in the manufacturing environment
- Interest in establishing new processes and mapping process flows through a manufacturing shop
- Ability to learn quickly and multitask in a dynamic, fast-paced work environment
- Strong verbal and written communication, organization, and leadership skills
- Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Able to work onsite in Palo Alto, California
- Experience with G-code and routing tables
- 3D printing experience, preferably with Creality
- Experience with CAD software, preferably 3DX
- Experience with carbon fiber composite materials, including wet layup and prepreg systems
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The Company
What We Do
Pivotal, founded by Melinda French Gates, is a group of organizations dedicated to accelerating social progress for women and young people globally. Through a combination of philanthropy, strategic investments, and advocacy, the organization works to drive momentum in areas with the greatest potential for impact. By supporting leaders and innovative ideas, Pivotal aims to expand women's power and influence, ultimately fostering a more equitable and inclusive future for everyone.
