Mechanical Engineering Co-op
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 31, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 28, 2026.
Company
Diffraqtion is developing the Quantum Vision System, a device that replaces a conventional camera and edge AI processor by computing at the speed of light. We are a small team founded by MIT and Harvard scientists with deep roots in AI, optics, and quantum sensing, and backed by DARPA, NASA, and leading venture investors. We are delivering orders-of-magnitude improvements in visual sensing, processing speed, and energy efficiency for machines and satellites that need to see and think at the edge.
About This Role
We are hiring a Mechanical Engineering Co-op to help build and test the opto-mechanical hardware that integrates with ground-based and space-based camera systems. Working under our Senior Mechanical Engineer, you will design fixtures and mounts, assembly and align hardware, and run thermal and vibration tests on real program hardware. This is a lab-heavy role. We are looking for someone who is hands-on and loves building, developing, and testing things at the bench and in the shop.
Duration: 6 months, full-time and on-site in Somerville, MA.
NOTE: This position requires access to technical data subject to U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Applicants who are not U.S. persons may need an export license or other U.S. government authorization before receiving that access.
Responsibilities
Assemble, align, and integrate opto-mechanical hardware in the lab, including handling precision optics.
Design and fabricate mounts and test fixtures in CAD, using 3D printing, the machine shop, and outside vendors.
Set up and run lab tests and collect and analyze the data.
Troubleshoot and improve test setups and hardware as issues come up.
Document results and present findings to the team.
Qualification
Pursuing a B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field (minimum 3.5 GPA).
Significant hands-on build experience with design teams, research labs, internships, or personal projects (e.g., rocketry, robotics, Formula SAE).
Proficiency in SolidWorks (or similar CAD) and MATLAB or Python.
Comfort in a machine shop and lab, with careful, safety-conscious habits.
Exposure to optics, controls, or space hardware (preferred).
What You'll Gain
Day-to-day mentorship from our world class engineering team and founding team.
Hands-on work on hardware headed to telescopes and space.
Opportunity to be considered for future co-op terms or full-time roles.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Diffraqtion is committed to fostering an inclusive and meritocratic workplace. We provide equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law. Diffraqtion is committed to equal opportunity for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Applicants who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process may contact [email protected].
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.