Optics - physics Sensor Engineering Summer Intern

Optics-Physics Sensor Engineering Co-ops and Interns at Draper

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.

Job Description Summary: Optics-Physics Sensor Engineering Co-ops and Interns at Draper will primarily support the research and development of precision inertial guidance and imaging instruments for existing customers. It is expected that co-ops will contribute to projects that include electro-optical design, optical and thermal model development, materials testing, electrical system design, hardware assembly, test, and debug. Specific task areas include but are not limited to: Optical and photonic component test and evaluation including design and fabrication of custom optical evaluation setups, optical and electronic modeling, optical system assembly including micro.

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: Students are expected to work with programs such as LabVIEW, MATLAB, SolidWorks, COMSOL, ANSYS, Mentor Graphics, Python, and GitLab.

Duration: This position will run for 10-12 weeks, from June 1st, 2026 through return to school.

Qualifications: Physics, materials science, or electrical engineering student with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA, and hands-on experience required. Additional desirable experience: Optical design, thermal control, electro-optic component test and evaluation, circuit theory, machine shop interaction, technical assembly, Excel, LabVIEW, MATLAB, ACAD, Mentor Graphics, Python, and GitLab.

* Due to the nature of the work at Draper, US citizenship status is required. Draper is unable to sponsor or hire individuals holding H1B or Student Visas. Dual-citizens are unable to be accepted for this position.

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 $15.00 - $225.00. 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.

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. Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. 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.