Mission Critical Software Engineering Co-op

Overview

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation.

For more information about Draper, visit

We are seeking a motivated Embedded Software Engineering Summer Intern/Co-op starting in the Summer 2026. This is a full-time, in-person opportunity designed for students currently enrolled in a college or university majoring in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or equivalent.

• Develop and maintain embedded software systems and/or simulations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including hardware, software, and integration and test engineers.
• Debug and troubleshoot software and firmware issues using lab equipment and software tools.
• Write and maintain documentation for software design and implementation.
• Develop and execute software unit tests, and document test results.
• Support integration and validation of software in system-level environments.
• Contribute to continuous software integration and development.

• Design, develop, and enhancement engineering solutions for challenging problems.
• Implement, test, perform analysis, and provide documentation support.
• Generate and present test reports including plots, tables, evaluation criteria, and conclusions from data collected and analyzed throughout the test process.
• Complete assignments designed to develop a practical knowledge of processes, procedures, equipment, facilities, and systems as well as their interrelationships within engineering disciplines.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Enrolled in an accredited full-time undergraduate or graduate degree program required.
• There is flexibility regarding hours and program duration based on applicant's school schedule and availability.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Excellent work ethic with the ability to work independently or in a team environment.
• Ability to adapt to ever-changing environments, risks, and vulnerabilities.
• Strong computer skills including MS Word, PowerPoint and Excel.

• Working knowledge of C/C++ programming for embedded systems.
• Familiarity with Python for scripting and automation tasks.
• Basic understanding of microcontrollers, digital interfaces, and embedded development environments.

• Experience with embedded debugging tools (e.g., JTAG, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, gdb).
• Exposure to real-time operating systems (RTOS).
• Rust development experience is a plus
• Familiarity with version control systems such as Git.
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills.

Connect with Draper for future opportunities. If you don t find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.

Job Location - City: Cambridge

Job Location - State: Massachusetts

Job Location - Postal Code:

Salary: $20.00 - $45.00 base salary. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement s approved rates by location and role.

Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. The compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and do not include bonuses or benefits.

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