Operations Engineering Intern

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    Draper

    Nearly a century of building systems for space, national security, and health. We're not done. And we won't slow down.

    1,001-5,000 employeesCambridge, MADefense and Space Manufacturing
    Actively hiringPaidSummer 2027Defense and Space Manufacturing
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    Best applied by Oct 22

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    About the role#

    As an Operations Engineering Intern during Summer 2027, you will join the Product Engineering Division at Draper. This role offers exposure to technical challenges where you can apply your engineering knowledge to real-world problems. You will work under the guidance of experienced engineers to develop a system-level perspective, focusing on manufacturability, assembly, and reliability. You will also have the opportunity to work with skilled operators in our machine shop, rapid prototyping lab, and circuit card assembly facility.

    What you'll do#

    • Design, develop, and enhance engineering solutions for complex technical problems.
    • Create and document hardware designs.
    • Fabricate and assemble prototypes.
    • Implement, test, and analyze systems, providing documentation support throughout the process.
    • Generate test reports that include plots, tables, evaluation criteria, and conclusions.
    • Support process development and continuous improvement initiatives.
    • Manage hardware tracking, yield, and performance metrics.
    • Coordinate and interact with external suppliers.
    • Complete assignments to build practical knowledge of equipment, facilities, and engineering procedures.

    What you'll need#

    • Current enrollment in an accredited full-time undergraduate or graduate degree program.
    • Pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Materials Science, Aerospace Engineering, or Manufacturing Engineering.
    • US citizenship is required due to national security program requirements.
    • Experience with 3D CAD software, specifically PTC Creo or Solidworks.
    • Knowledge of machined parts and GD&T.
    • Strong computer skills including MS Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
    • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
    • A strong work ethic with the ability to work independently or as part of a team.
    • The ability to adapt to changing environments, risks, and vulnerabilities.

    Location & details#

    • This is a full-time, on-site internship based in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
    • The position is for the Summer 2027 term.

    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.

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