Mechanical Engineering Intern (Summer 2026)

Mechanical Internship

At Salas O’Brien we tell our clients that we’re engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That’s why we’re committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.

Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career—and they’ll receive great total rewards along the way.

About Us:

Founded in 1975, Salas O’Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow’s requirements are today’s opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.

We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.

Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.

Job Summary: Joining our team as a Mechanical Engineering Intern offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience, expand your skills, and make meaningful contributions to impactful projects within Salas O’Brien. We are committed to providing a supportive and enriching environment where interns can thrive and develop their talents. If you are ready to embark on a rewarding journey and learn from industry experts, we encourage you to apply and become part of our dynamic team

Qualifications and Experience:

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Genuine passion for the AEC industry and eagerness to learn and contribute to meaningful projects.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
• Experience in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit) and familiarity with engineering analysis tools is advantageous.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work tasks, with a willingness to perform duties onsite or at project locations as required.
• Prior internship or co-op experience in the AEC industry is a plus, but not required.
  

Location: San Diego, CA   

Travel: Some local site visits

Compensation & Benefits:

Salas O’Brien health and welfare benefits are designed to invest in you, and in the things you care about. Your health. Your well-being. Your security. Your future. Team members have access to medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance, a 401(k) plan, and the ability to purchase company stock at a discount.  Salas O’Brien has both U.S. and Canadian (PTO) plans for full-time salaried, exempt and non-team members, 10 paid holidays, and paid leave programs for military service and new parents. And certain roles may be eligible for additional rewards, including merit increases, performance discretionary bonus, and stock.

The base hourly range for this position is $18.00 to $24.00. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Salas O’Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, colour, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O’Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.

Qualifications Education Preferred Masters or better. Bachelors or better. Experience Required Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.