LV R&D Mechanical Engineer Intern

About IEM

Industrial Electric Mfg. (IEM) is the largest independent full-line manufacturer of custom power distribution systems in North America. Founded more than 75 years ago in Fremont, California, IEM grew alongside Silicon Valley and today operates over 1.7 million square feet of manufacturing capacity. With $1B+ in annual sales and 10,000+ commissioned projects across technology, data centers, commercial, energy, utilities, healthcare, industrial, and infrastructure markets, IEM continues to deliver exceptional product quality, dependable service, and the flexibility to meet complex technical requirements at scale.

Position Summary

This will be a 3-month, full-time position designed to provide hands-on experience with custom low voltage power distribution systems, in a fast pace and highly collaborative environment.  Interns will be an integrated member of IEM’s R&D Engineering team located in Franklin, Tennessee, and can expect frequent multiple interactions with other R&D and manufacturing teams across IEM’s multiple sites. This role focuses on creating engineering documentation as part of a new product development process. Projects will be tailored to align with both team priorities and the intern’s academic interests and professional goals.

Seeking a motivated Engineering Intern – Mechanical Design to support the development of low voltage electrical equipment. This internship provides hands-on experience in mechanical design, product development, and cross-functional engineering collaboration. The intern will work closely with experienced engineers to design, document, and improve mechanical components used in low voltage assemblies such as switchboards, panelboards & enclosures.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the mechanical design and detailing of components and assemblies for low voltage electrical equipment.
• Create and modify 3D models and 2D drawings using CAD software (SolidWorks) 
• Support design updates driven by engineering changes, manufacturing feedback, or cost reduction initiatives.
• Participate in tolerance stack-ups, basic structural analysis, and material selection 
• Assist with prototype builds, fit checks, and design validation testing i
• Prepare and maintain engineering documentation including drawings, BOMs, and design reports. 
• Collaborate with electrical, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure designs meet functional and safety requirements.
• Follow applicable standards (e.g., UL, IEC, ANSI) and internal design guidelines 
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to design efficiency and manufacturability.

Required Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical / Mechatronics Engineering or a closely related field.
• Basic understanding of mechanical design principles, including sheet metal and mechanical assemblies.
• Familiarity with at least one 3D CAD tool.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and specifications.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Interest or coursework related to electrical equipment, power distribution, or electromechanical systems.
• Exposure to low voltage equipment such as switchgear, panels, or enclosures.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes (sheet metal fabrication, machining, welding, fasteners).
• Experience with PLM systems, ERP, or engineering change processes.
• Prior internship, co-op, or hands-on project experience.