Intern, Thermo-Fluids Engineer, Drive Unit, Summer 2026

Team Description:

The Drive Unit Thermo-Fluids team is at the forefront of thermal management innovations for electric motor assemblies. We apply core principles of fluid mechanics and heat transfer to ensure the performance and reliability of drive unit components.

Our work spans:

• 3D CFD simulations of internal flows and two-phase flows related to cooling and lubrication.
• Experimental validation, where we define and execute tests to evaluate thermal and lubrication performance.
• Cross-functional collaboration with electromagnetics, design, and testing teams to ensure robust and efficient system integration.

We're looking for a summer intern (May/June–August/September 2026, 12 weeks) who is passionate about thermo-fluids and eager to contribute to real-world engineering challenges. This is a hands-on opportunity to work on cutting-edge thermal technologies in EV drive unit.

Role/Responsibilities:

As a summer intern on the Drive Unit Thermo-Fluids team, you'll contribute to the thermal management of electric motor assemblies through both simulation and experimental work.

• Execute simulation projects on component and system level, involving CAD modeling, geometry cleanup, meshing, and CFD simulations of motor designs.
• Develop analytical models of heat transfer and fluid flow mechanisms for motor and gearbox components and systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including drive unit design, electromagnetics, system modeling, and testing teams.
• Support thermo-fluids experiments through test setup, calibration, data collection, and data processing.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong foundation and passion for heat transfer and fluid mechanics.
• In-depth knowledge of CFD fundamentals and experience with CFD tools (Ansys Fluent, Ansys Icepak, SPH CFD tool, etc.).
• Hands-on experience with experimental validation and measurements.
• Familiarity with typical electric motor cooling mechanisms.
• Excellent communication skills across technical disciplines.

Nice to Have:

• Proficiency in geometry cleanup using CAD tools (SpaceClaim, Discovery, or DesignModeler preferred).
• Experience with thermal nodal network modeling, electromagnetics and electric motor design, or structural FEA analysis.
• Scripting experience in MATLAB, Python, or similar.

Education:

• Field(s) of study: Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or other majors with focuses in fluid mechanics and heat transfer.
• Currently enrolled in a Master's or PhD Degree program at an accredited university.
• Proof of enrollment in current or into next program (MS or PhD).

Program Information:

• Timing: May- August, or June-September pending class schedules.
• Duration of Internship: Our internship program is 12 weeks; the end date is flexible based on individual needs.
• Work Location & Environment: This position will be in Newark, CA, and is fully in-person. You must be prepared to start onsite for your first day of employment. The working environment will be a mix of lab & office work.
• Compensation: Student compensation is based on location and current degree level, non-negotiable ranging from $35 to $63 (subject to changes).
• Relocation: May be provided on a case to case basis.
• Housing/Transportation: You must provide your own living arrangements and transportation in the local area.
• Background Check: All offers of employment are contingent on clearing a background check.
• Drug Screening: All offers of employment are contingent on passing a drug screen.
• Medical benefits: Dental, vision, and medical on day 1 for all interns working full-time.
• Visa Sponsorship: Lucid may but is not obligated to sponsor foreign national employees requiring company sponsorship for U.S employment authorization.