Engineering Co Op 2026 Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is the world's leading, independent non-profit organization dedicated to ocean research, exploration, and education. Our scientists and engineers push the boundaries of knowledge about the ocean to reveal its impacts on our planet and our lives. Co-ops are available within teams in the Applied Ocean Physics & Engineering Department that are addressing present and future research needs in autonomous underwater vehicles, robotics, underwater acoustic communications and navigation, deep-submergence (manned or autonomous), ocean sensors and observatories, free-space optics, fiber optics, power and energy systems, advanced materials, telemetry, data science and many others. Students in the engineering and science fields with an interest in marine engineering and science who are looking for positions to satisfy a co-op or other requirements in their education programs are encouraged to apply. The openings are within a variety of research groups, and may focus on mechanical, electrical, software engineering and data analysis. Openings may occur at any time depending upon project demands but are oriented around typical student co-op and internship schedules. These are temporary, casual, non-exempt positions, and are eligible for casual benefits.
The internal working title for this position is Co-Op and is based on the Engineering Assistant II or Engineering Assistant III descriptions detailed below. The final level of the position will be determined commensurate with the selected candidate's level of education and experience.

Job Description

Engineering Assistant II

Students with some limited previous experience and may include software, mechanical or electrical design and development, using appropriate tools like CAD, prototyping, fabrication, assembly and testing. Projects may also include programming in C, C++, Python, Java or Matlab, data analysis using Excel, documenting results in MS Word or PowerPoint, as well as scripting and plotting in Matlab or Python.

Engineering Assistant III

Students with a higher level of skill and experience in design, programming or data analysis, and previous relevant work experience, ideally in a similar environment. Expected to work with moderate independence and take responsibility for a complete subsystem, whether electrical, mechanical or software related.

FOCUS AREAS:

Positions are regularly available with specific research groups that are suitable for undergraduates seeking to gain relevant work experience and will allow the successful applicant to contribute to on-going projects. Positions and duties take a variety of forms depending upon the projects currently underway, which currently include the following focus areas and corresponding required skills and experience: QA/QC & Instruments:

Basic computer, electrical and/or mechanical skills

Data analysis skills (scripting, plotting, etc.) in Matlab or Python

Familiarity with serial and/or Ethernet instrument interfaces

Experience with mechanical design using Autodesk Inventor or AutoCAD

Mechanical:

Assist with assembly, maintenance, and repair of equipment with instruction and advice; exercises judgment in selecting or adapting procedures and equipment

Selects and operates standard test equipment, records test data, and performs routine analyses

Conducts various tests or experiments to troubleshoot and correct minor malfunctions

Software:

Python, ROS, Gazebo, and/or C++ programming experience

Git version control experience

Interest in developing user interfaces and user tools for data display & analysis

Interest in command and control of deployed, oceanographic data collection systems

Electrical:

Able to perform basic pcb design, purchasing and assembly

Familiarity with PCB design software, KiCAD, Eagle, Altium or simliar

Basic knowledge of electrical circuits

Familiarity with electrical equipment, oscilloscope, DMM's, function generators, etc.

Firmware or microcontroller software development highly desirable

Additional Job Requirements

Fixed Hourly Rate:

Engineering Co-Op (First) $27.50 spring semester of 2nd year

Engineering Co-Op (Second) $29.00 spring semester of 3rd year

Engineering Co-Op (Third) $31.00 spring semester of 4th year

The hourly rate provided for this position reflects the set base pay for new hires. Final level placement will be determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as internal equity and market conditions.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

As deemed necessary by supervisor, must be willing to take on a variety of tasks regardless of levels

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

1-3 years' progress toward an engineering degree with some project or other co-op or internship experience.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Physical duties for these positions include but are not limited to, ability to lift 25-50 lbs independently, 2-3 times per day; carry 25-50 lbs, 3-4 times per day. Visual abilities to include near, far, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to distinguish basic colors, with or without accommodations. Hearing requirements include the ability to hear and respond to instructions, communicate effectively in loud areas (pier/dock, warehouse). Other physical tasks include occasional prolonged standing/walking; use of hands for basic /fine grasping and manipulation, reaching above and below the shoulders, kneeling, bending, and stooping. Other occupational requirements include being exposed to conditions such as excessive cold, heat or humidity, greases and oils, electrical/mechanical/power equipment hazards, hazardous substances or specimens, extended periods at sea and prolonged work hours. Physical duties are subject to change. Students with disabilities are encouraged to apply to determine if accommodations could be met.

SEA DUTY:

(Depending on project and cruise schedule) May work at least 8 hours per day and, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week. Sleep and work hours can deviate from those on land. May be expected to work on watch schedule (such as 8 hours on and 8 hours off or 12 hours on and 8 hours off) for all or part of a cruise or to work as hours are needed to accomplish the planned work. May need to travel during holidays and for long distances to and from foreign ports. May experience rudimentary living and working conditions, with shared and basic living quarters and laboratories. May experience bad or extreme weather conditions, including heavy seas, winter weather or hot, tropical weather. Work on deck may occur in both hot and cold conditions around the clock. Sea conditions will lead to active ship motion. Should be able to climb steep and vertical ladders and able to enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills. Should be able to carry heavy gear and participate in the loading and unloading of the ship as well as in the activities on deck and in the labs during the cruise. Shipboard environment may include: confined areas, shared sleeping quarters (berths) and bathroom facilities, small and basic berthing, fixed meal times and basic menus. Modest levels of heating, cooling, ventilation, and illumination, limited or no email and internet access and limited off-duty and recreational facilities (library, lounge, movies). May be exposed to potential allergens and irritants, including paint fumes. May experience constant and intermittent loud noises, and slippery and uneven surfaces.

WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.

EEO Statement

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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.