Summer Intern 2026 - Flight Test

Summer Intern 2026 - Flight Test ABOUT MACH INDUSTRIES Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 220 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition. Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security. THE ROLE Mach is seeking a Flight Test Engineering Intern to contribute to the development, testing, and validation of our advanced UAS platforms. This role emphasizes hands-on work in flight test planning, operations, and data collection, as well as coordination across engineering and flight operations teams. You’ll help develop and execute test plans, prepare hardware for testing, and support flight activities at Mach’s test sites. This position is ideal for an engineer who thrives in fast-paced environments and wants to be part of cutting-edge flight test operations. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Assist in planning and executing flight tests, including pre-flight preparations, readiness reviews, and post-flight data analysis. - Support the development of test procedures, safety checklists, and test plans under the guidance of the Flight Test and Systems Engineering teams. - Participate in test site setup and operations, including preparing ground control systems, telemetry, and test equipment. - Collect, organize, and process flight data for engineering review and validation. - Help maintain and improve flight test infrastructure and documentation processes. - Travel to test sites to support aircraft testing, operations, and demonstrations. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS - Must be enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program from an accredited college or university in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, systems engineering, or a related field. - 3+ months of applied engineering experience (internship, laboratory, and personal/team project experience is applicable). - Strong understanding of flight mechanics, instrumentation, and basic control systems. - Familiarity with aircraft systems and operational safety principles. - Ability to work full-time onsite in Huntington Beach, CA. - Willingness to travel to flight test locations as needed. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS - GPA of 3.5 or above. - 6+ months of experience in applying technical skills outside of the classroom (examples: laboratory, research, extracurricular project teams, volunteering, personal projects, or prior internship/work experience). - Experience with UAVs, RC aircraft, or flight simulators. - Familiarity with data acquisition, telemetry, or ground control systems (Mission Planner, QGroundControl, etc.). - Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail. - Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a professional team environment. - Interest in test operations, fieldwork, and hands-on experimentation. - Eagerness to learn and adapt in a dynamic startup environment. - Private Pilot License, Part 107 certification, or active pursuit of one is a plus. - Self-directed with a positive attitude and team spirit. Disclosures This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).  Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for a ... (truncated, view full listing at source)