GNC Systems Engineering Co-Op

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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 hiringPaidSpring 2027Defense and Space Manufacturing
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Best applied by Nov 21

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About the role#

The Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GN&C) System Architecture group is looking for a co-op student for the Spring 2027 term. You will work on a team that applies and optimizes systems engineering methodologies for multi-domain national-security programs. This is a 6-month, full-time, on-site position based in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

What you'll do#

  • Design, develop, and enhance engineering solutions for complex problems.
  • Build SysML-based models using MagicDraw and create new tool capabilities.
  • Support the development of functional and physical GN&C architectures and requirements traceability using MBSE methodologies.
  • Implement, test, and analyze solutions, providing documentation support throughout the process.
  • Generate and present test reports that include plots, tables, evaluation criteria, and conclusions.
  • Optimize systems engineering processes to streamline technical planning and program decision-making.
  • Support program execution of technical review milestones with internal and external stakeholders.
  • Document discoveries, best practices, and lessons learned while presenting progress to the team regularly.

What you'll need#

  • Current full-time enrollment in an accredited undergraduate or graduate engineering or STEM-related curriculum.
  • Ability to work full-time for a 6-month period.
  • US citizenship.
  • Strong modeling skills and comfort learning new software and tools.
  • Proficiency with MS Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
  • Familiarity with systems engineering concepts and engineering design.
  • Desired: Experience with MBSE tools, object-oriented programming languages, complex systems, or GN&C technologies.
  • You may be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.

Location & details#

  • Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts.
  • Term: Spring 2027.
  • Status: Paid, full-time co-op.
  • Work Modality: On-site.

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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