Opto-Mechanical Co-op: Build & Test Space Hardware

Diffraqtion; Somerville (MA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Diffraqtion is hiring a Mechanical Engineering Co-op to help build and test the opto-mechanical hardware that integrates with ground-based and space-based camera systems. Working under our Senior Mechanical Engineer, you will design fixtures and mounts, assembly and align hardware, and run thermal and vibration tests on real program hardware.

This is a lab-heavy role. We are looking for someone who is hands‑on and loves building, developing, and testing things at the bench and in the shop.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field (minimum 3.5 GPA).
• Significant hands-on build experience with design teams, research labs, internships, or personal projects (e.g., rocketry, robotics, Formula SAE).
• Proficiency in SolidWorks (or similar CAD) and MATLAB or Python.
• Comfort in a machine shop and lab, with careful, safety-conscious habits.
• Exposure to optics, controls, or space hardware (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Assemble, align, and integrate opto-mechanical hardware in the lab, including handling precision optics.
• Design and fabricate mounts and test fixtures in CAD, using 3D printing, the machine shop, and outside vendors.
• Set up and run lab tests and collect and analyze the data.
• Troubleshoot and improve test setups and hardware as issues come up.
• Document results and present findings to the team.

Skills

Hands-on engineering

Lab testing

Data analysis

CAD proficiency

Education

B.S./M.S. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Job description

Diffraqtion is hiring a Mechanical Engineering Co-op to help build and test the opto-mechanical hardware that integrates with ground-based and space-based camera systems. Working under our Senior Mechanical Engineer, you will design fixtures and mounts, assembly and align hardware, and run thermal and vibration tests on real program hardware.

This is a lab-heavy role. We are looking for someone who is hands‑on and loves building, developing, and testing things at the bench and in the shop.