About the role#
As a Mechanical Engineering & System Packaging Co-Op, you will work within the Mechanical Engineering Division on technical challenges related to national interests. You will apply engineering principles to design and analyze components while working alongside engineers and technicians to fabricate and assemble hardware systems. This role offers exposure to 3D CAD software like SolidWorks or PTC Creo and simulation tools such as Ansys. You will gain experience in design for manufacturability, drawing creation, and structural or thermal performance analysis.
What you'll do#
- Design, develop, and improve engineering solutions for complex problems.
- Implement, test, and analyze systems while providing documentation support.
- Generate and present test reports that include plots, tables, evaluation criteria, and conclusions.
- Build practical knowledge of processes, procedures, equipment, and facilities.
- Coordinate with machine shop operators, rapid prototyping labs, or circuit card assembly facilities to fabricate parts.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
What you'll need#
- Enrollment in an accredited full-time undergraduate or graduate degree program in Mechanical Engineering.
- Strong computer skills, specifically with MS Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- A strong work ethic and the ability to work both independently and in a team.
- The ability to adapt to changing environments, risks, and vulnerabilities.
- Note that selected applicants may be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.
Location & details#
- Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts.
- Term: Winter 2027.
- Modality: On-site.
- Employment: Full-time, paid position.
- Sponsorship: Not available.
About Draper
Draper is a nonprofit engineering firm based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The company provides engineering services to government, industry, and academic partners. Its work spans domains from undersea environments to space systems. With a staff of nearly 3,000 employees, the company focuses on technical challenges in national security and health.
How to get in at Draper
Applying early is a significant advantage when pursuing a role at Draper, as recruiters often review candidates before the applicant pool grows too large. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, helping you stay ahead of the crowd. This timing ensures your application is among the first seen by the team. You can also improve your response rates by reaching out to the people actually managing the hiring process. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company's roles, allowing you to ask direct questions or request a referral. Connecting with the right person often provides the clarity you need to stand out in a competitive field.



