Optics-Physics Sensor 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 Nov 19

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About the role#

This internship focuses on the research and development of precision inertial guidance and imaging instruments. You will join a multidisciplinary team to contribute to projects that span the entire development cycle, from initial design to final hardware testing.

What you'll do#

  • Support electro-optical design and optical or thermal model development.
  • Conduct materials testing and electrical system design.
  • Perform hardware assembly, testing, and debugging.
  • Design and build custom optical evaluation setups.
  • Assemble optical systems, including micro-scale components.
  • Use software tools such as LabVIEW, MATLAB, SolidWorks, COMSOL, ANSYS, Mentor Graphics, Python, and GitLab.

What you'll need#

  • Current enrollment in a Physics, Materials Science, or Electrical Engineering program.
  • A minimum 3.0 GPA.
  • Demonstrated hands-on experience.
  • US Citizenship is required. We cannot provide visa sponsorship or hire individuals on student visas, including those with dual citizenship.
  • Familiarity with optical design, thermal control, circuit theory, and technical assembly is preferred.
  • Experience with machine shop interaction is a plus.

Location & details#

  • Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts.
  • Term: Summer 2027.
  • Modality: Full-time, on-site.
  • Compensation: Paid position.

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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