Optics-Physics Sensor Engineering Co-op (Spring 2027)

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company whose multidisciplinary teams develop solutions for national challenges. The Optics-Physics Sensor Engineering Co-op will support the research and development of precision inertial guidance and imaging instruments through electro-optical design, modeling, materials testing, hardware assembly, testing, and debugging.

What you'll do:

• Optics-Physics Sensor Engineering Co-ops and Interns at Draper will primarily support the research and development of precision inertial guidance and imaging instruments for existing customers
• It is expected that co-ops will contribute to projects that include electro-optical design, optical and thermal model development, materials testing, electrical system design, hardware assembly, test, and debug
• Specific task areas include but are not limited to: Optical and photonic component test and evaluation including design and fabrication of custom optical evaluation setups, optical and electronic modeling, optical system assembly including micro

What they're looking for:

• Physics, materials science, or electrical engineering student with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA, and hands-on experience required
• US Citizenship status is required
• Optical design, thermal control, electro-optic component test and evaluation, circuit theory, machine shop interaction, technical assembly, Excel, LabVIEW, MATLAB, ACAD, Mentor Graphics, Python, and GitLab

Benefits:

• Workplace flexibility
• Employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga
• Health and finance workshops
• Off-site social events
• Discounts to local museums and cultural activities