Mechanical Engineering Co-op (Spring 2027)

Whelix; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 33,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Whelix, a Boston-based startup building AI-native robots for biotech labs, is seeking a Mechanical Engineering Co-op for Spring 2027 to help design, prototype and test mechanical systems on our robots. The full-time, on-site role runs January 4 to July 2, 2027, reporting to the CTO.

You'll design mechanical assemblies in CAD, build prototypes, and work with electro-mechanical teams to ensure manufacturability and reliability.

Qualifications

• What you'll do includes designing mechanical assemblies, prototypes, and test rigs.
• Hands-on prototyping and assembly experience expected.
• Strong interest in robotics or automation.

Responsibilities

• Design and refine mechanical systems and enclosures in CAD.
• Build and test prototypes from 3D-printed parts to full assemblies.
• Improve robustness and manufacturability of designs.
• Collaborate with electrical and software engineers during lab tests.

Skills

CAD proficiency

Prototyping

Mechanical assembly

Problem-solving

Robotics/automation interest

Education

BS/MS/PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Tools

Onshape

Fusion 360

Job description

Mechanical Engineering Co-op (Spring 2027)

Whelix builds AI-native robots that automate wet lab work, starting with cell culture. We are a Boston-based startup deploying into pharma and biotech today. We are seeking a Mechanical Engineering Co-op for Spring 2027 to help design, prototype and test the mechanical systems on our robots. The co-op is full-time and on-site in Boston, MA, from January 4 to July 2, 2027, reporting to the CTO. Pay is $3,000 to $4,000 per month.

About WhelixWhelix builds intelligent robots that automate wet lab work, starting with cell culture, for biotech and pharmaceutical research. By integrating AI agents with proprietary engineered robotics, our systems eliminate repetitive, error-prone workflows, freeing scientists to focus on discovery while increasing experimental throughput, reproducibility, and scientific impact. Based in Boston, Whelix is deploying systems into pharmaceutical, biotech and academic labs today and actively scaling up production to serve more customers.

DescriptionRole OverviewAs a Mechanical Engineering Co-op, you will help design, prototype and test the mechanical systems on our robots, including motion systems, fluidics, structures and enclosures. You will work side by side with our mechanical, electrical and robotics software engineers, and with the scientists who use the machine. This is a hands-on, on-site role in Boston, reporting to the CTO.

What you'll do

• Design and refine mechanical assemblies, enclosures and motion systems in CAD
• Build and test prototypes quickly, from 3D-printed and laser-cut parts to full assemblies
• Design fixtures and test rigs to validate mechanical performance
• Improve the robustness, ease of assembly and manufacturability of our designs
• Take designs from prototype to working hardware in the lab with our electrical and software engineers
• Join design reviews, lab tests and problem-solving sessions with the team

What we're looking for

• Pursuing a BS, MS or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
• Proficient in CAD (Onshape, Fusion 360 or similar)
• Hands-on experience with prototyping and mechanical assembly
• Strong problem-solving skills and a real interest in robotics or automation
• Able to work on-site in Boston, MA

Nice to have

• Experience with motion systems, fluidics, or sheet-metal and machined part design
• Familiarity with DFM/DFA and working with fabrication vendors
• Exposure to biotech, lab automation or wet-lab environments
• Prior internship, co-op or research lab experience