Mechanical Engineering & System Packaging Co-Op (Spring 2027)

Overview:
Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.
Job Description Summary:
Draper is seeking a mechanical engineering co-op student to help design, develop, and analyze novel solutions to problems of national interest.
As a student in the Mechanical Engineering Division, you will be exposed to a broad range of technical challenges where you can apply your knowledge as well as learn new skills while seeing how problems of national interest are solved. Your experience can range from applying engineering principals while designing and analyzing components, to working directly with engineers and technicians to fabricate and assemble systems.
While working under the guidance of engineers, you can create detailed designs using 3-D CAD software (specifically SolidWorks and/or PTC Creo) or analyzing performance of systems by conducting simulations using finite element software (such as Ansys). While working on tasks, you will gain a better understanding of how to design with consideration for manufacturability, proper drawing creation and tolerancing and/or analysis for structural and thermal performance. When parts need to be fabricated, you will have the opportunity to work with highly skilled operators in Draper’s extensive machine shop, rapid prototyping lab featuring multiple 3D printers or circuit card assembly facility. You will also have the opportunity to interact with other facilities such as materials characterization or metrology.
Assignments are designed to develop a practical knowledge of processes, procedures, equipment, facilities, and systems as well as their interrelationships within engineering disciplines. Assignments will also provide an opportunity to develop valuable networking connections which will help prepare and develop your skills for future career opportunities. Actual project tasks will depend on immediate program priorities.
Job Description:
Duties/Responsibilities
Design, develop, and enhancement engineering solutions for challenging problems.
Implement, test, perform analysis, and provide documentation support.
Generate and present test reports including plots, tables, evaluation criteria, and conclusions from data collected and analyzed throughout the test process.
Complete assignments designed to develop a practical knowledge of processes, procedures, equipment, facilities, and systems as well as their interrelationships within engineering disciplines.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Program Requirements
Enrolled in an accredited full-time undergraduate or graduate degree program required.
There is flexibility regarding hours and program duration based on applicant’s school schedule and availability.
Skills/Abilities
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Excellent work ethic with the ability to work independently or in a team environment.
Ability to adapt to ever-changing environments, risks, and vulnerabilities.
Strong computer skills including MS Word, PowerPoint and Excel.
Additional Job Description:
Required Qualifications:
Co-op students must be US citizens who are enrolled in an accredited engineering curriculum and able to work full-time for a 6 month period.
Preferred Qualifications:
Familiarity with 3D CAD, specifically SolidWorks or Creo
Familiarity with fabrication and assembly of prototypes and proof-of-concept models
Familiarity with considerations for manufacturability, proper drawing creation, and tolerancing
Be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance
Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.
Job Location - City:
Cambridge
Job Location - State:
Massachusetts
Job Location - Postal Code:
02139-3563
The US base salary range for this full-time position is
$20.00 - $45.00
Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.
Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.
Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact hr@draper.com.