Research and development internship jobs in Kansas City, MO

Our Summer Internship Program is meticulously designed to provide students with an immersive and dynamic experience within our industry, offering a taste of what it's like to be part of our professional team. We strive to simulate a full-time job, enabling our interns to work hands-on with cutting-edge technology, contribute to meaningful projects, build strong relationships with coworkers, and develop strategic problem-solving skills. Our program is highly selective, hosting only a handful of interns each year, ensuring personalized attention and ample opportunities to work closely with AV team members. We are hiring for various roles and locations throughout the US, during the interview process we will be able to discuss specific details regarding team and location. **Summary** As a **Software Engineering Intern** , you'll be part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary team working on real-world projects across AV technology portfolio. You'll assist in the design, development, and testing of software solutions for a variety of applications - from ground control systems and user interfaces to data pipelines and simulation tools. This role is ideal for someone who's eager to apply their software development skills in a dynamic, hands-on environment, while learning from experienced engineers and contributing to projects with real impact. **Position Responsibilities** + Assist in the design, coding, testing, and debugging of software components and systems. + Contribute to the development of tools and applications that support AV robotics and aerospace platforms. + Collaborate with engineers across software, hardware, and systems teams to integrate and test new capabilities. + Participate in code reviews, documentation, and the use of version control and defect tracking tools. + Help develop scripts or automation to improve team workflows and efficiency. + Learn and apply best practices in software development processes, including Agile methodologies. + Support the development of prototypes, simulations, and proof-of-concept demonstrations. + Attend team meetings, contribute ideas, and learn to estimate development effort and timelines. **Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)** + Currently pursuing a **Bachelor's or Master's degree** in **Computer Science, Software Engineering** , or a related field. + Strong foundational knowledge in programming languages such as **Python, C++, or Java** . + Familiarity with development tools such as **Visual Studio, Git, Eclipse** , or similar IDEs. + Experience with data structures, algorithms, and software design principles. + Demonstrated problem-solving and analytical skills. + Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment. + Effective written and verbal communication skills. **Preferred Qualifications & Competencies** + Experience with software development on Linux, Windows, or cross-platform environments. + Exposure to web technologies, cloud platforms, or backend services is a plus. + Interest in or exposure to robotics, autonomous systems, or data analytics. + Experience using scripting languages (e.g., Bash, Python) to automate tasks. + Knowledge of Agile development practices and version control (e.g., Git). + Curiosity and willingness to learn new technologies and frameworks. + Ability to take ownership of tasks and contribute to team goals. **Physical Demands** + Ability to work in an office and R&D lab environment (Constant) + Required to sit, type, and use office equipment for extended periods (Frequent) **ITAR Requirement:** _T_ _his position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment's determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment's business requirements. A "U.S. person" according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements._ **Benefits** : AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: ********************************* . We also encourage you to review our company website at ******************** to learn more about us. Principals only need apply. NO agencies please. **Who We Are** Based in California, AeroVironment (AVAV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we've been at the leading edge of technical innovation for more than 45 years. Be a part of the team that developed the world's most widely used military drones and created the first submarine-launched reconnaissance drone, and has seven innovative vehicles that are part of the Smithsonian Institution's permanent collection in Washington, DC. Join us today in developing the next generation of small UAS and tactical missile systems that will deliver more actionable intelligence to our customers so they can proceed with certainty - and succeed. **What We Do** Building on a history of technological innovation, AeroVironment designs, develops, produces, and supports an advanced portfolio of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services use the company's hand-launched UAS to provide situational awareness to tactical operating units through real-time, airborne reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition. _We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status._ **ITAR** **About AV:** **AV isn't for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best.** We don't just build defense technology-we redefine what's possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve. Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian-but we're not building history, we're building what's next. **If you're ready to build technology that matters-with speed, scale, and purpose-there's no better place to do it than AV.** **Careers at AeroVironment (*****************************************