Job description

Engine Test Intern - LiquidPiston Location: Suffield, CT Employment Type: Full-time Internship (Summer 2027) Compensation: Paid About LiquidPiston: LiquidPiston is an advanced propulsion technology company developing compact, high-efficiency rotary engines for aerospace, defense, hybrid power systems, and mobility applications. Our patented rotary engine architecture is designed to deliver significantly higher power density, improved fuel efficiency, lower vibration, and multi-fuel capability compared to conventional piston engines. Our team operates in a highly collaborative, fast-paced environment focused on rapid prototyping, testing, and continuous engineering innovation. As we continue transitioning from research and development into commercialization, interns have the opportunity to contribute directly to cutting-edge engine programs and real-world product development. Responsibilities: • Support setup, execution, and monitoring of engine and subsystem tests on dynos and laboratory test stands • Assist with instrumentation installation, calibration, and troubleshooting (thermocouples, pressure sensors, flow meters, DAQ systems, etc.) • Collect, organize, and analyze engine performance and test data • Help prepare engines, fuel systems, cooling systems, and supporting hardware for testing • Support troubleshooting and root-cause analysis of engine, combustion, thermal, or mechanical issues observed during testing • Participate in test planning, test procedure documentation, and post-test reporting • Assist with fabrication, assembly, and modification of test fixtures, plumbing, and support equipment • Collaborate with mechanical design, controls, manufacturing, and simulation teams to improve engine performance and reliability • Maintain safe and organized test cell operations in a fast-paced development environment Qualifications: • Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field (rising junior/senior or graduate level preferred) • Strong interest in engines, propulsion systems, thermodynamics, and experimental testing • Basic understanding of internal combustion engines, fluid systems, heat transfer, and mechanical systems • Hands-on experience with tools, fabrication, assembly, or laboratory work • Ability to troubleshoot mechanical and test-related issues in a practical environment • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail when handling data and test procedures • U.S. person status (citizen or permanent resident) preferred due to defense/aerospace-related projects • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, prototype-heavy environment with rapidly changing priorities Preferred Skills & Experience: • Prior experience with engine dyno testing, Formula SAE, Baja SAE, motorsports, UAVs, robotics, or propulsion projects • Familiarity with data acquisition systems, sensors, LabVIEW, CAN communication, or controls systems • Experience working with instrumentation, wiring, calibration, or troubleshooting test equipment • Basic CAD experience (SolidWorks or similar) for fixtures or test hardware • Experience with Python, MATLAB, Excel, or other data analysis tools • Understanding of combustion, engine performance metrics, or thermal systems • Previous internship, lab, or co-op experience in automotive, aerospace, energy, or mechanical testing environments Our Culture At LiquidPiston, we challenge convention and solve hard problems. We move fast, think boldly, and iterate quickly. Our team thrives on collaboration, creativity, and resilience. We take calculated risks and believe that every setback is a steppingstone toward breakthrough innovation. Equal Opportunity Employer LiquidPiston, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. All offers of employment at LiquidPiston are contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment background check, drug screening and credit check.

Requirements

Must-haves

Engine Test Intern - LiquidPiston
Location: Suffield, CT
Employment Type: Full-time Internship (Summer 2027)
Compensation: Paid
Support setup, execution, and monitoring of engine and subsystem tests on dynos and laboratory test stands
Assist with instrumentation installation, calibration, and troubleshooting (thermocouples, pressure sensors, flow meters, DAQ systems, etc.)
Collect, organize, and analyze engine performance and test data
Help prepare engines, fuel systems, cooling systems, and supporting hardware for testing
Support troubleshooting and root-cause analysis of engine, combustion, thermal, or mechanical issues observed during testing
Participate in test planning, test procedure documentation, and post-test reporting
Assist with fabrication, assembly, and modification of test fixtures, plumbing, and support equipment
Collaborate with mechanical design, controls, manufacturing, and simulation teams to improve engine performance and reliability
Maintain safe and organized test cell operations in a fast-paced development environment
Strong interest in engines, propulsion systems, thermodynamics, and experimental testing
Basic understanding of internal combustion engines, fluid systems, heat transfer, and mechanical systems
Hands-on experience with tools, fabrication, assembly, or laboratory work
Ability to troubleshoot mechanical and test-related issues in a practical environment
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail when handling data and test procedures
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, prototype-heavy environment with rapidly changing priorities
Prior experience with engine dyno testing, Formula SAE, Baja SAE, motorsports, UAVs, robotics, or propulsion projects
Familiarity with data acquisition systems, sensors, LabVIEW, CAN communication, or controls systems
Experience working with instrumentation, wiring, calibration, or troubleshooting test equipment

Nice-to-haves

Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field (rising junior/senior or graduate level preferred)
U.S. person status (citizen or permanent resident) preferred due to defense/aerospace-related projects

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