2026 Intern - Mechanical Engineer

About Forterra

Forterra is a leading provider of autonomous systems for ground-based movement in the working world. Amongst some of the earliest innovators in the field of driverless technology, Forterra is focused on building systems that protect front-line soldiers and enable civilian workers in our industrial base. Forterra is the go-to provider of ground autonomy solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense, which harnesses the technology for asymmetric warfare in critical conditions.

About the role

Forterra is looking to bring on high-energy, inquisitive interns to join our Engineering team. This role will give interns an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience within the ground-based autonomous vehicle space, contributing to real-world projects and solving complex problems. 

What you'll do

  • Assist with design, development, and testing of projects under guidance from senior engineers. 
  • Perform research and gather technical data to support engineering decisions. 
  • Write, review, and update technical documentation, reports, and project logs. 
  • Help build prototypes, run simulations, or execute test procedures. 
  • Shadow engineers to gain exposure to real-world problem-solving and technical decision-making. 
  • Present progress updates or final project results to the team or leadership 

Qualifications

  • Currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field. 
  • Ability to translate abstract concepts into technical solutions - software or hardware. 
  • Experience or significant interest in autonomous mobility and robotic locomotion 
  • Strong ability to problem-solve, acts as a self-starter, doesn’t shy away from technical challenges.  
  • Strong attention to detail, follow-through, and ability to plan architecture to anticipate future technical expansion.  
  • Ability to work independently. 
  • Relentless in your pursuit of solving the problem or challenge 

Preferred Qualifications

  • Familiarity with control systems. 
  • Strong understanding of mathematical concepts. 
  • Experience with CAD Software (e.g. SolidWorks, AutoCAD). 


US Hourly Range 
$30/hr - $40/hr 
 

The salary range for this role is an estimate and is based on a wide variety of compensation factors. The salary offered to candidates will vary based on a variety of factors including (but not limited to) relevant work experience, education, specialized training, critical expertise, training, and more. Equity in Forterra is included in most of our full-time, high-demand roles and is therefore considered part of Forterra’s overall compensation package. In addition to base salary and equity, Forterra offers competitive benefits for full-time employees including:

  • Premium Healthcare Benefits: Three plan options, including an HSA-eligible plan, with Forterra covering 80% of the plan premium for you and your dependents.  
  • Basic Life/AD&D, short and long-term disability insurance plans 100% covered by Forterra, plus the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your dependents.
  • Extremely generous company holiday calendar including a winter break in December.
  • Competitive paid time off (PTO) offering 20 days accrued per year.
  • A minimum of 7 weeks fully paid parental leave for birth/adoption. 
  • A $9k annual tuition reimbursement or professional development stipend.
  • Fully stocked beverage refrigerators with all the Celsius your little heart desires. 
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan, including traditional, Roth 401(k), and after-tax deferral with company match up to 4%.

Your recruiter will be able to share more information about our salary and benefits offering during the hiring process.  


Forterra is an equal-opportunity employer, providing and promoting equal employment opportunity in accordance with local, state, and federal laws. Forterrans are unique, talented individuals who are united through a shared passion to deliver autonomous systems that enable national resilience and a robust supply chain. All qualified applications will receive equal consideration for employment.

Hardware Engineering

Clarksburg, MD

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