Operating Systems and Embedded Software Development Co-Op (Spring 2027)

Draper; Cambridge (MA); Hybrid; USD 28,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Draper is seeking Engineering Co-Op Students to support research and development in hardware and software for real-time embedded systems. This on-site internship in Cambridge, MA offers exposure to sensor, vehicle, and infrastructure domains and may include occasional work-from-home days.

The role emphasizes hands-on design, testing, and documentation while developing practical knowledge of engineering processes. Candidates should be enrolled full-time and available for a 6-month program.

Qualifications

• Enrolled in an accredited engineering curriculum full-time undergraduate or graduate degree program required.
• Co-op Students must be able to work full-time for a 6 month period.
• There is flexibility regarding hours and program duration based on applicant’s school schedule and availability.

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.

Skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Adaptability

MS Office

Education

Engineering student

Job description

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:

Engineering Co-Op Students support the research and development of new or existing systems, hardware and software. The candidate will work with Draper’s Software Engineering Division with the focus on low level software for real-time embedded systems. This is an excellent opportunity for college students who would like to apply their skills to practical applications.
The ideal candidates for this position are enthusiastic about developing infrastructure and application software for resource constrained systems. Domains include sensor, vehicle and infrastructure systems. This internship will be onsite at Draper’s Cambridge, MA campus, with the ability to occasionally work from home.

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 engineering curriculum full-time undergraduate or graduate degree program required.
• Co-op Students must be able to work full-time for a 6 month period.
• 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.

Job Location - City:

Lowell

Job Location - State:

Massachusetts

Job Location - Postal Code:

01854

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.

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 [e-mail].