Systems Engineering Co-Op (Spring 2027)

The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc.; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible schedule

Employee clubs

Discounts to local museums

Job summary

The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc. in Cambridge, MA offers a six-month Engineering Co‑Op position within the GAD division.

Students will contribute to hardware and software design, test, analysis, and documentation as part of a cross‑functional engineering team. Candidates must be enrolled in an accredited engineering program, able to work full‑time for six months, and possess strong communication and computer skills (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).

Qualifications

• Enrolled in 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.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and enhance engineering solutions for challenging problems.
• Implement, test, and provide documentation support.
• Generate and present test reports with data analysis.
• Perform duties to develop knowledge of processes, equipment, and systems.

Skills

Excellent communication

Strong work ethic

Adaptability

MS Word

PowerPoint

Excel

Education

Enrolled in accredited engineering curriculum (undergrad/grad)

Tools

MS Word

PowerPoint

Excel

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. components and materials or may assist in sustaining and improving the quality processes across the full engineering and manufacturing life cycle. Students will contribute to projects in various engineering disciplines such as computer hardware or software design and development, electro‑optical design, optical and thermal model development, materials testing, electrical system design, hardware assembly, testing, etc. Students will collaborate with engineers or technicians to build and test systems, hardware or components on various projects. They may also be involved in ensuring quality products are produced and quality procedures are upheld. Chosen candidates will be placed in groups within the GAD division depending on skillset and technical interests. GAD is a cross‑functional systems engineering division operating across all aspects of the system lifecycle and in a variety of program areas. Student employees may be tasked with requirements development and analysis, test plan development and execution, traceability studies, test equipment development, tool automation, reliability analysis, vulnerability analysis, or other areas.

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.

Location

• City: Cambridge
• State: Massachusetts
• Postal Code: 02139-3563

Salary

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.

Benefits & Perks

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.

EEO/DEI Statement

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].

About Draper

We are in the business of redefining what is possible. Join our inclusive, multidisciplinary team to engineer the groundbreaking solutions of tomorrow. Explore life at Draper with our unique culture and benefits at draper.com.