Talon Zulu – Electrical or Mechatronics Engineering Internship

Organisational Overview:

TALON ZULU was founded to revolutionise how Defence, Government, and Industry solve complex challenges. TALON ZULU accelerates the development and adoption of new and dual use capabilities for their customers by teaming with passionate innovative technology developers in a collaborative, positive and trusting environment. Their small team brings decades of proven expertise in rapid prototyping, innovation, and operational leadership. With extensive Defence and Industry networks, they thrive on turning vision into value—delivering at the speed of relevance to those who depend on it most.

Internship Scope

TALON ZULU is currently seeking an undergraduate final-year student in Electrical or Mechatronics Engineering with a strong interest in electrical systems design for unmanned autonomous systems and robotics.

Eligible students may receive a Defence Industry Connection Program Scholarship valued at up to $7,500.

The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic about applying engineering principles to assess and optimise electrical systems for next-generation drone platforms. This includes taking technician-level designs and conducting detailed engineering assessments to determine key outputs such as power consumption, current draw, voltage stability and system efficiency, then identifying and proposing recommendations for improvements. Familiarity with electrical schematics, power distribution and integration of sensors and actuators would be highly regarded, along with a problem-solving mindset and passion for innovation in autonomous technologies.

The selected interns will work with the TALON ZULU Team together and selected Industry partners under the guidance and supervision of Highly Experienced Chartered Aeronautical Engineers and Subject Matter Experts. This internship offers direct exposure to the Defence Rapid Capability Development environment, providing a unique opportunity to contribute to real world projects that shape next generation autonomous systems. The role will be base at TALON ZULU’s headquarters in the Adelaide CBD, with flexibility for occasional virtual collaboration to accommodate project needs and study commitments.

Internship Duration:

8-20 weeks with flexibility to work part-time or full-time over different study periods.

Expected learning outcomes for the intern: 

• Comprehensive understanding of Defence innovation processes, including exposure to rapid capability development cycles and operational requirements.
• Hands-on experience in electrical system design and integration for unmanned aerial systems (UAS), including power distribution, energy efficiency and component compatibility.
• Application of electrical engineering principles to assess and optimise system performance, including calculations for power, current, and voltage under operational loads.
• Practical knowledge of Test & Evaluation (T&E) methodologies for Defence-grade UAS platforms, including electrical performance analysis and fault identification.
• Mentorship from highly experienced Chartered Engineers across aeronautical, mechanical, and network disciplines, gaining insights into engineering leadership and Defence industry best practices.
• Exposure to collaborative Defence–Industry environments, building professional networks with emerging leaders and technology innovators.

Anticipated Tasks for each role: 

• Work with electrical schematics and technician-level designs for UAS platforms.
• Assess electrical systems for power, current, and voltage performance.
• Identify and resolve design issues with practical solutions.
• Support integration of sensors, actuators, and power modules into drones.
• Assist with testing and evaluation, including system checks and flight trials.
• Collaborate with Defence and industry partners on innovative projects.

Student Eligibility:

Successful applicants must be:

• Australian citizens, residing in South Australia
• Enrolled in a relevant undergraduate discipline in University of Adelaide, University of South Australia or Flinders University
• Eligible to undertake a credit-bearing internship course for this internship experience
• Preference may be given to students who hold a baseline clearance

Application Closing: 10 December 2025 (11.59pm)

Anticipated Internship Commencement Date: January 2026

Application Process:

To be considered for this internship and the Defence Industry Connection Program Scholarship valued up to $7,500, please register your resume and and ensure you click ‘apply for placement’ button at the top of this page.

Shortlisted applicants will be advised of the outcome approximately two to three weeks after application closing date.

For any queries, please contact the DICP Team (Saba or Taryn) at dicp@aigroup.com.au.