Mechanical Engineering Intern (Summer 2027)

Freeform is deploying software-defined, autonomous metal 3D printing factories around the world, bringing the scalability of software to physical production. Our proprietary technology stack leverages advanced sensing, real-time controls, and data-driven learning to produce digitally verified, flawless parts at unprecedented speed and cost. Our mission is to make the transformative power of 3D printing available to all industries at scale and unlock the future of innovation.

As a Mechanical Engineering Intern at Freeform, you will contribute to the design, development, and deployment of cutting-edge, clean-sheet systems that push the boundaries of additive manufacturing, automation, and factory-scale integration. You’ll work with a talented engineering team from some of the world’s most innovative companies across a range of projects from mechanical design and prototyping to testing and integration - gaining hands-on experience in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment. This includes working on complex mechanical assemblies, precision motion systems, and high-performance thermal and fluid subsystems. You’ll collaborate with electrical and software engineers to help integrate subsystems into cohesive, production-ready platforms.

3D printing experience is not required to be successful here - we look for smart, motivated, collaborative engineers who love solving hard problems and creating amazing technology!

Responsibilities:

Own a cradle to grave project that delivers meaningful impact to critical print factory capabilities

Contribute to the design, build, prototyping, and testing of mechanical components, subassemblies, and systems

Assist with tolerance analysis and mechanical feasibility studies

Participate in hands-on builds, integration, and validation of mechanical systems

Collaborate with senior engineers to improve system performance, reliability, and manufacturability

Basic Qualifications:

Currently enrolled in a bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering from an ABET accredited university or college

Hands on design experience from internships or engineering clubs such as FSAE, Baja SAE, solar car, rocket club, robotics club, or similar

Strong grasp of mechanical engineering fundamentals and comfortable taking a first-principles approach to solving problems

Nice to Have:

Advanced degree (Master's, PhD) in mechanical or aerospace engineering

Knowledge of motion control and kinematics

Experience with design of fluid or thermal systems

Working knowledge of electromechanical systems

Passion for improving the state of metal 3D printing

Comfortable working in fast-paced, ambiguous environments and iterating quickly (comfortable building the plane as we fly it)

Strong communicator who collaborates across disciplines and proactively seeks support when needed

Willing to take ownership of tasks big and small, with a hands-on, problem-solving mindset

Strong work ethic with a refuse-to-fail mindset

Demonstrated indicators of excellence and/or achieving success against adversity (i.e. top academic performance, leadership in engineering clubs, first-generation college student, or other examples of resilience and achievement)

Location:

We are located in Hawthorne, CA in a 35,000 square foot, state-of-the-art facility featuring large open spaces for team collaboration, R&D, and production, as well as easy access to the 405, 105, and 110 freeways. Our facility is in the heart of Los Angeles' vibrant emerging tech ecosystem alongside many other high growth startups and enterprises.

What We Offer:

We have an inclusive and diverse culture that values collaboration, learning, and making deliberate data-driven decisions

We offer a unique opportunity to be an early and integral member of a rapidly growing company that is scaling a world-changing technology

Compensation and Benefits

The compensation for this role:

Engineering Intern/Undergraduate: $30/hour

Engineering Intern/Masters: $32.50/hour

Engineering Intern/PhD: $35/hour

Relocation assistance provided

Free daily catered lunch and dinner, and fully stocked kitchenette

Casual dress, flexible work hours, and regular catered team building events

Freeform is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values diversity; employment with Freeform is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.