Mechanical, Structures, and Systems - COLUMBIA - 2027 Engineering Summer Internship
General Dynamics Electric Boat provides an unparalleled learning experience for college students, offering practical exposure in the defense industry alongside expert engineers, shaping the future of submarine innovation.
Engineers at Electric Boat work collaboratively across departments and with our customer to develop innovative solutions for the United States Navy’s nuclear submarines. As an Intern, you'll be exposed to various engineering activities with the support of our senior staff. This program grants our trainees the opportunity to develop valuable skills and dive into cutting-edge projects such as leading the Columbia Class design and enhancing Virginia Class submarines. Every intern will be exposed to a wealth of knowledge in order to excel in the engineering domain.
This program requires an 8-week commitment during the Summer 2027 Season.
Participation in this program requires medical screening, passing a drug test, and potential DOD Investigation.
This is not a remote opportunity.
All applicants have the potential to be placed at any of our facilities in Connecticut and Rhode Island.
COLUMBIA Class Mechanical, Structures, and Systems Engineering – Summer Internship
Job Description:
The COLUMBIA Class Mechanical, Structures, and Systems Engineering Directorate is responsible for the engineering and design of the hull and internal/external structures for the COLUMBIA Class submarine, as well as fluid and mechanical systems. The COLUMBIA Class is the next generation sea based strategic deterrence submarine and is currently under construction.
Engineers in this organization are responsible for a diverse array of engineered systems and hardware on the COLUMBIA Class submarine including hull and external structures, Common Missile Compartment (CMC) and forward end internal structures, fluid systems (seawater, freshwater, HVAC, hydraulics, and air systems), and mechanical systems (weapons handling, weapons launch, steering and diving systems, and valves). Using a design-build-sustain approach, engineers work in a team environment interfacing with designers, other engineering disciplines, operations, planning, procurement and testing organizations within the shipyard, as well as the NAVY and their local representative SUPSHIP.
COLUMBIA Class Mechanical, Structures, and Systems Engineering Summer Interns may be responsible for the following tasks:
- Perform engineering calculations
- Developing/reviewing designs
- Material evaluation and selection
- Analyzing arrangement studies
- Support resolving vendor issues
- Perform ship checks and document as-built conditions in the shipyard
- Resolving design and construction issues
Please note: Due to the high volume of applications received, our current process does not involve interviews. Rest assured that even though you will not be contacted for an interview, your time and effort are greatly appreciated. Each application is diligently reviewed for consideration. Thank you for your understanding and interest!
QualificationsTo be qualified for this position:
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
- US citizenship is required.
- Must be able to successfully pass a medically supervised drug screen and background check.
- Must be enrolled full-time at a college or university.
- At minimum students must have completed their freshman year prior to the start of the internship.
- Must be available to work 40 hours per week for a minimum eight (8) consecutive weeks between May 2027 to September 2027.
- Selected candidates will be responsible for establishing housing and reliable transportation for the duration of their intern assignment.
- Pursuing a Bachelor or Masters of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical, Naval Archtecture, Civil Engineering, Structural, Systems, Ocean Engineering, Marine Engineering, or equivalent to the required degrees.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to effectively work both independently and as part of a team.
- Ability to learn new skills and apply them.
- Ability to solve problems in a constructive manner.
- Strong interpersonal skills.
- Proficient with MS Office suite (Word, Excel, Office).
Skills Required
- At least 18 years of age
- U.S. citizenship
- Successfully pass a medically supervised drug screen
- Successfully pass a background check
- Full-time enrollment at a college or university
- Completion of freshman year before the internship begins
- Availability to work 40 hours per week for at least eight consecutive weeks between May and September 2027
- Pursuing a Bachelor of Science or Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Naval Architecture, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Systems Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Marine Engineering, or an equivalent field
- Establish housing for the internship assignment
- Provide reliable transportation for the internship assignment
- Effective written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Ability to learn and apply new skills
- Problem-solving ability
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Word, and Excel
What We Do
General Dynamics Electric Boat designs, constructs, and provides lifecycle support for submarines serving the U.S. Navy. Established in 1899, the company has a longstanding role in submarine design and construction. Its mission combines engineering, shipbuilding, and long-term support capabilities to deliver and sustain undersea vessels throughout their operational lifecycles in support of the U.S. Navy and national defense programs.
