Engineering Intern

About LiquidPiston:
LiquidPiston, Inc. is a disruptive engine company based in Bloomfield, CT, developing compact, efficient, and powerful rotary engines based on our patented thermodynamic cycle and innovative X-Engine architecture. Our engines are poised to revolutionize applications across aerospace, defense, commercial, and automotive sectors. Join our mission to transform propulsion and power generation technology.
Location: Onsite in Bloomfield, CT. Will not consider remote. 
Internship Overview:
We are seeking highly motivated and innovative Engineering Interns to join various teams within LiquidPiston. As an intern, you will have the opportunity to contribute to real-world engineering projects and gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced, R&D-focused environment.
Opportunities are available in the following departments:

• Design Engineering
• Aerospace Systems
• Modeling & Simulation
• Testing & Validation
• Manufacturing / Machining

• Support design and development of rotary engine components and subsystems using CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks).
• Perform tolerance analyses, DFMA reviews, and assist in prototype fabrication.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on packaging, manufacturability, and integration challenges.

• Contribute to propulsion system integration for UAVs and other aerospace platforms.
• Perform thermal and structural analyses under aerospace operating conditions.
• Assist in compliance documentation and system-level testing.

• Develop and run simulations for thermodynamic cycles and combustion analysis.
• Use MATLAB, Simulink, GT-Power, ANSYS, or other modeling tools to support performance prediction and optimization.
• Validate simulation results against experimental data.

• Support test setup, data acquisition, and instrumentation for engine and component testing.
• Analyze test data to identify trends, issues, and performance metrics.
• Assist with writing test plans, procedures, and reports.

• Operate and support CNC machining, manual lathe, and mill equipment for prototype and low-volume production.
• Assist in fixture design, tool selection, and machining process planning.
• Work closely with design engineers to evaluate manufacturability and implement design changes.
• Maintain precision, quality control, and safety standards during part fabrication.
• Gain hands-on experience with GD&T, CAM programming (e.g., Fusion 360 or Mastercam), and material selection.

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field. Technical trade school students will also be considered for machinist roles.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with relevant tools depending on the department (e.g., SolidWorks, MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, CNC equipment, CAM software).
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Passion for innovation and technology development.

• Prior experience with internal combustion engines, power systems, or mechanical prototyping.
• Knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, or heat transfer.
• Familiarity with electric drive systems, UAVs, or hybrid propulsion.
• Hands-on experience in a shop environment or with machining equipment.

• Hands-on experience working with cutting-edge engine technologies.
• Mentorship from experienced engineers and exposure to startup culture.
• Opportunity to work on high-impact projects in aerospace and defense.
• Practical manufacturing and prototyping skills in a real-world R&D environment.
• Potential pathway to full-time employment.

• Approximately $3000-3850/month depending on the year in school.