Mechanical Design Intern

At BWX Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: BWXT), we are People Strong, Innovation Driven. A U.S.-based company, BWXT is a Fortune 1000 and Defense News Top 100 manufacturing and engineering innovator that provides safe and effective nuclear solutions for global security, clean energy, environmental restoration, nuclear medicine and space exploration. With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K. We are the sole manufacturer of naval nuclear reactors for U.S. submarines and aircraft carriers. Our company supplies precision manufactured components, services and fuel for the commercial nuclear power industry across four continents. Our joint ventures provide environmental restoration and operations management at a dozen U.S. Department of Energy and NASA facilities. BWXT’s technology is driving advances in medical radioisotope production in North America and microreactors for various defense and space applications.  For more information, visit www.bwxt.com. Follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram.

Welcome to BWXT
We believe in empowering our employees and cultivating a dynamic workplace that fosters growth and collaboration. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting your career, you'll find opportunities to challenge yourself, learn from seasoned experts, and contribute to nuclear innovation. We required a diverse range of skills to support our work in the markets that drive our business and welcome candidates from all backgrounds and life stages who are passionate about making a difference.

BWXT is People Strong, Innovation Driven - be part of BWXT’s innovation hub. BWXT’s Advanced Technologies (AT) group researches, designs, and develops innovative new nuclear reactors, nuclear rocket propulsion systems, and radioisotope production systems for both internal and external customers.

If you are looking for a Summer 2027 internship opportunity where innovative thinking is fostered and barrier-free teamwork is embraced every day, then this opportunity is for you.

Position Overview: 

As a Mechanical Design Intern, you will support the engineering team in designing and developing system components for high‑temperature gas reactors (HTGRs) and light water reactors (LWRs) used in both space and terrestrial applications. You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary group that includes engineers from various fields, data scientists, technicians, and project managers.  

Location: 

The position will be located in Lynchburg, VA at the Advanced Technologies Office. 

Your Day to Day as a Mechanical Design Intern: 

• Assist with basic component and system design activities, including preparing models and drawings, running preliminary calculations, and drafting supporting documentation under close guidance. 

• Support mechanical component design efforts by helping incorporate considerations for assembly, testing, and inspection, with mentorship from experienced engineers. 

• Learn and apply fundamental design control and configuration management concepts. 

• Gain exposure to design-for-manufacturing principles and system operations, contributing to small portions of larger design tasks. 

• Learn new procedures, processes, and tools while supporting various stages of production and workflow. 

• Help gather and document procurement requirements for mechanical components or system functionality with supervision. 

Required Qualifications: 

• Must be a currently enrolled student, pursuing a degree in engineering. 

• Coursework or project experience related to mechanical engineering concepts. 

• Interest in nuclear reactor systems or complex mechanical assemblies; prior exposure is helpful but not required. 

• Willingness to learn industry codes and standards such as ASME Section III and VIII. 

• Familiarity with 3D modeling software (SolidWorks preferred) through coursework or personal projects. 

• Basic understanding of engineering drawings and GD&T concepts. 

• Ability to follow task plans and schedules with support from the engineering team. 

• Strong written and verbal communication skills appropriate for a technical environment. 

• Ability to work collaboratively in a team setting and ask questions when guidance is needed. 

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while managing assigned tasks independently when appropriate. 

• Must be a U.S. Citizen. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Experience with engineering simulation tools (ANSYS or other) is a plus. 

What We Offer: 

• Flexible work schedules to promote a healthy work-life balance. 
• Housing stipend available for those who meet the eligibility requirements. 

• BWXT offers the thrift plan (401k) to its employees. After 3 years of employment, you become fully vested and any time as an internship goes towards that time. 

• An inclusive atmosphere that celebrates new perspectives and supports collaboration between different generations. 

• The chance to be part of a mission-driven organization making a positive impact on the future of energy. 

 Pay: $25.05 - $31.83

The starting hourly rate for this position in Virginia (US-VA)  at the start of employment is expected to be between $25.05  and $31.83  per hour.  The hourly rate offered is based on local job market factors and other objective business considerations. Subject to these considerations, the total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, such as a full range of medical, retirement, and/or other benefits. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided at such time the selected job candidate receives an offer of employment. If hired, the selected job candidate will be employed 'at-will,’ unless employed at a location and in a position subject to a collective bargaining agreement.  The company further reserves the right to modify the hourly rate (as well as any other discretionary payment, compensation, or benefit program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, company or applicable department/team performance, and other market factors.

As a federal government contractor, BWX Technologies, Inc. and any subsidiaries, affiliates and related entities (“BWXT” or the “Company”) complies with all federal, state, and local laws and customer requirements regarding health and safety protocols.  As such, all BWXT new hires will be required to adhere to applicable Company health and safety requirements within the workplace as a condition of employment.

BWXT supports diversity and is committed to the concept of Equal Employment Opportunity. We have established procedures to ensure that all personnel actions such as recruitment, compensation, career development, benefits, company-sponsored training and social recreational programs are administered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or veteran status.

https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf

https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/OFCCP_EEO_Supplement_Final_JRF_QA_508c.pdf