Intern, Prototype Engineering

Slate Automotive LLC

Apply to this job
Troy, Michigan Until 9/30/2026 First posted June 10, 2026 Last posted August 1, 2026
Job description

ABOUT SLATE

At Slate, we’re building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize and love—and doing it here in the USA as part of our commitment to reindustrialization. The spirit of DIY and customization runs throughout every element of a Slate, because people should have control over how their trucks look, feel, and represent them.

| WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Slate is seeking an Intern, Prototype Engineering to do hands-on, real-world engineering work that directly contributes to the performance, comfort, and refinement of our vehicles. You will support the development, testing, and optimization of vehicle performance and functionality attributes across multiple systems and components.

This role combines analytical work, instrumentation, on-vehicle testing, and collaboration with cross functional engineering groups such as Chassis, Electrical, and Powertrain. This is a hands-on position where you will instrument vehicles to identify issues and develop data mining tools to categorize the conditions that lead to root cause identification.

| WHAT YOU GET TO DO

  • Support the design, build, and iteration of vehicle and subsystem prototypes, including mechanical, electrical, and thermal components.
  • Assist engineers with prototype assembly, teardown, modification, and testing in a fast-paced EV development environment.
  • Develop and document prototype processes, test plans, and results to support design validation and rapid design changes.
  • Work cross-functionally with design, manufacturing, and test teams to resolve fit, function, and performance issues.
  • Utilize basic CAD tools, measurement equipment, and shop tools to fabricate, modify, and evaluate prototype parts.
  • Help track prototype parts, configurations, and changes, ensuring accurate documentation and build integrity.
  • Develop hands-on experience in fabricating and reworking prototype components.
  • Gain practical experience with industry-standard tools and software, including CATIA, Polarion (for project management), and CANalyzer.

| WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TEAM

  • Pursuit of a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
  • Must be currently enrolled in an accredited degree program.
  • Must be graduating between December 2026 and May 2029.
  • Must have at least a 3.0 GPA or higher.
  • Must be able to work full-time (40 hours per week).
  • Strong interest in gaining hands-on experience in a prototype engineering environment.
  • Ability to interpret and understand engineering drawings and technical documentation.
  • Highly adaptable and proactive.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate with cross functional teams to achieve common goals.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Comfortable working in both laboratory and vehicle / plant environments.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Must have the ability to travel (up to 10%).
  • Must have the ability to lift up to 35 pounds.
  • Must have the ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.

WHY JOIN TEAM SLATE?

At Slate, we’re fueled by grit, determination, and attention to detail. The start-up spirit of ingenuity and resourcefulness move our business forward. Team Slate fosters a culture of excellence, innovation, and mutual respect, and is motivated by shared principles.

  • Safety First

  • Delight Customers

  • One Team

  • Relentless Improvement

  • Fast, Frugal, and Scrappy

  • Respectful Collaboration

  • Positive Legacy

WE WANT TO WORK WITH PEOPLE THAT REFLECT THE COMMUNITIES IN WHICH WE OPERATE.

Slate is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason.

Slate is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at

slate-talent_acquisition@slate.auto.

About this role

Summary

Support prototype design, testing, and development of vehicle systems.

Job title

Intern, Prototype Engineering

Experience level

pursuing bachelor’s degree

Industry

automotive

Location requirements

Troy, Michigan; remote work not specified.

Salary

Not specified

Management role

No

Skills & keywords

Required skills

enrolled in degree programGPA 3.0+engineering drawing interpretationcollaboration skillsproficiency with Microsoft Office

Preferred skills

CADprototype fabricationvehicle testingproject documentation

Specializations

mechanicalelectricalthermalCADtesting
Locations

Structured locations inferred from the posting.

Troy, MI, USA

Work arrangement unknown City