Student: Mechanical Design Assistant
Job ID: 7509Date Posted: April 20, 2026The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking a Utah State University student in engineering or a related field to assist full-time mechanical designers.This is a year-round position, not a summer internship or temporary role. Students design their schedule each semester to accommodate their classes. Students generally keep their position until they graduate and may be retained up to one semester after graduation as they apply for full-time positions.Duties and Responsibilities:Engineering-prototype part generation operating SDL's 3D printerPrepping parts for use in prototype form (may require sanding and fitting)Performing basic 3D printer maintenanceMaintaining the consumables inventoryReceiving work orders and scheduling parts for printingDocumenting billing recordsInterfacing with vendors for non-user serviceable maintenance and upgradesMaintaining CAD common parts and materials databasesKeeping common parts library accurate in-sync with SDL's inventory databaseCreating new common parts as needed using parametric designKeeping materials library up-to-date and relevant for both CAD and CAE softwareEntry-level draftingProducing basic mechanical drawings accurately communicating design intent for fabrication and archival purposes under the supervision of a Mechanical Designer or EngineerUpdating and maintaining CAD templatesMinimum Qualifications:Must be a Utah State University student with a minimum of one year completed working toward an ungraduated or graduate degree in engineering or a related fieldMust have at least one year remaining in schoolMust be able to work on-site in North Logan, UtahMust be available to 15- 20 hours per week during semesters with the possibility of more hours being available during summerExtreme attention to detail with high level of craftsmanshipEffective organizational and communication skillsExperience with CAD software, 3D printing, and MS OfficeAbility to work flexible hours working occasional nights and weekendsDemonstrated ability to stay on task without supervisionStrong commitment to safety protocols and a risk-conscious mindsetMust be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., or other U.S. personPreferred Qualifications:2+ years of school remainingExperience with Solid Edge, SolidWorks, or NXExperience with Cura, OrcaSlicer, or other slicing softwareStudent Scholar Program: SDL provides unique opportunities for student employees to develop real-world experience and knowledge beyond the classroom through our Student Scholar Program. This program offers monthly technical workshops, outreach activities, and academic stipends to eligible student employees. All SDL student employees are invited to participate in the program to expand their professional network while supporting SDL's mission.SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 7 days; however, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptlyFor questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.RequiredPreferredJob IndustriesOther