Research & Development Intern - Charlotte, NC

Overview:

Support railcar engineering projects through CAD, FEA, prototyping, testing, data analytics, and responsible use of AI tools.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Create CAD models and engineering drawings.

• Perform finite element analysis and support design validation testing.

• Use 3D scanning and printing to develop components and prototypes.

• Analyze and visualize large datasets using Excel, Power BI, and related tools.

• Apply AI and machine learning to automate data processing and identify performance trends or anomalies.

• Use AI-assisted tools responsibly for research, documentation, and reporting.

• Communicate findings, project status, and recommendations through reports and presentations

Projects the intern will work on:

• To be determined when the internship starts

Internship Goals:

• Complete assigned projects safely, accurately, and on schedule.

• Follow TTX engineering standards and work procedures.

• Apply classroom knowledge to real-world railcar engineering challenges.

• Develop practical skills in CAD, FEA, prototyping, testing, and data analytics.

• Use AI and analytical tools responsibly to improve engineering workflows.

• Provide regular project status, timeline, and risk updates.

• Document methods, results, and recommendations clearly.

• Present project findings and lessons learned to the department.

Qualifications:

• Full time students pursuing Mechanical Engineering

Preferred Qualities Possessed by Candidate:

• Eager to learn and explore new technologies.

• Strong foundation in statics, mechanics, and strength of materials.

• Familiarity with CAD, finite element analysis, and data analytics.

• Experience with Excel, Power BI, Python, or similar tools.

• Interest in applying AI and machine learning to engineering problems.

• Uses AI tools responsibly and verifies results against engineering data and standards.

• Strong problem-solving, critical-thinking, and communication skills.

Physical Job Requirements

(The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.)

General office environment; may be required to travel. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to sit (remain stationary within work area) and use hands to finger, handle, feel and reach. The employee is occasionally required to move about (stand, walk). The employee must occasionally lift and/or transport up to 10 pounds. Correctable vision required for close, distance, and color vision capabilities.

The above job description is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.