Embedded Software Engineering Intern/Co-Op

Job Description

About Draper

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. With over 2,000 employees, Draper addresses critical national challenges by delivering successful and usable solutions. Their work spans military defense, space exploration, and biomedical engineering, often with lives depending on the solutions provided. Multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that fosters the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.

Job Description Summary

Draper is seeking a motivated Embedded Software Engineering Intern/Co-Op to start 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 or Computer Engineering.

Responsibilities

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

Duties/Detailed Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and enhance 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.

Program Requirements

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

General Skills & Abilities

• 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.

Required Experience and Technical Skills

• 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.

Desired Experience and Technical Skills

• 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.

Job Location

City: Cambridge
State: Massachusetts
Postal Code: 02139-3563

Salary Range

The US base salary range for this full-time position is $20.00 – $45.00 per hour. Salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The displayed range reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Individual pay within the range is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will comply with collective bargaining agreements. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. This compensation reflects the base salary only and does not include bonuses or benefits.

Work-Life Balance and Benefits

Draper values work-life balance and supports many programs including workplace flexibility, employee clubs (from photography to yoga), health and finance workshops, off-site social events, and discounts to local museums and cultural activities.

How to Apply

If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now at www.draper.com/careers.

Diversity & Inclusion

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment and understands the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact hr@draper.com.

Connect for Future Opportunities

If you don’t find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration by connecting with Draper.