At Leonardo DRS, we’re passionate about bringing fresh perspectives and bold ideas to everything we do. Our co-op opportunity will give you the chance to jump in and make a tangible impact. From day one, you will contribute to a broad range of hardware development activities applying both hands-on mechanical design skills and the latest engineering tools. We’re looking for someone who’s passionate about creating robust, high-performance products and streamlining engineering processes with cutting-edge technologies.

Working alongside our seasoned engineers, you’ll apply your skills to perform static, shock, vibration, and thermal analyses, assist in test fixture design, and produce detailed technical documentation. You’ll also have the freedom to innovate—automating repetitive tasks with scripting languages like Python and continually refining our processes.

Our employees repeatedly emphasize two key aspects of life at Leonardo DRS. First, the learning here is ongoing. You won’t just be observing; you’ll gain hands-on experience with advanced tools and collaborate with teams across multiple locations, including our manufacturing facility in Halifax. Second, although we’re part of a large and steadily growing organization, we maintain the close-knit atmosphere of a smaller company. This means your voice matters, your ideas are valued, and your contributions directly impact some of our most critical programs.

This position offers the opportunity to gain practical experience in advanced simulation, design validation, and automation techniques—all while being part of a dynamic team that values learning, innovation, and collaboration. 

As a Mechanical Engineering Co-op student, you will contribute to a broad range of hardware development activities—applying both hands-on mechanical design skills and the latest engineering tools. We’re looking for someone who’s passionate about creating robust, high-performance products and streamlining engineering processes with cutting-edge technologies. Key responsibilities include:

3D CAD Design & Drafting:Create, refine, and manage models for components, assemblies, and test fixtures using PTC CREO. Ensure designs are optimized for manufacturability and maintainability.

Engineering Documentation:Develop and maintain thorough technical documentation, including detailed drawings, Engineering Change Orders (ECOs), and Bills of Materials (BOMs). Gain proficiency in collaboration tools such as ARAS, Jira and Confluence to track progress, store documentation, and facilitate knowledge sharing within the team.

Finite Element Analysis (FEA):Use Ansys to simulate static, shock, and vibration loading. Provide clear, data-driven insights to guide product enhancements and validate design choices.

Reliability Analysis:Employ Ansys Sherlock to perform in-depth reliability assessments of Circuit Card Assemblies (CCAs), identifying potential failure modes and proposing design improvements.

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Thermal Analysis:Utilize Ansys Icepak to identify and mitigate thermal challenges, ensuring products perform reliably under a range of temperature conditions.

Environmental Testing:Support a variety of environmental tests aligned with MIL standards (e.g., shock, vibration, temperature, humidity) to confirm product robustness. Document findings and recommend corrective actions where needed.

Automation & Scripting:Leverage large language models (LLMs), Python, and other scripting languages to automate repetitive tasks, streamline workflows, and increase overall engineering efficiency.

Manufacturing Support:Collaborate with decentralized cross-functional teams—including our Shipboard Integrated Communications System (SHINCOM) manufacturing operations in Halifax, NS and Flight Data Recorder (FDR) Avionics manufacturing operations in Johnstown, PA —to address production challenges, implement design changes, and enhance product manufacturability.

Collaboration & Flexibility:Exhibit a self-starter mentality by working independently with moderate supervision, while also adapting to evolving project demands and contributing effectively in a team-based environment. 

• Team-Focused Culture: Thrive in a supportive, collaborative environment where your contributions truly make an impact.
• Continuous Improvement: Participate in improving processes, design, and implementation techniques and develop tools to optimize development.
• Cutting-Edge Projects & Mentorship: Work on leading-edge technologies alongside seasoned mentors who are invested in your growth and success.
• Compressed Work Schedule: Enjoy every second Friday off, reflecting our commitment to helping you maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Flexible Hours: Tailor your schedule around academic commitments and personal responsibilities without sacrificing productivity.
• Seasonal Company-Wide Gatherings: Join in on food truck visits, monthly themed events, beach volleyball league, golf tournament, the Army Run, and more—experience a dynamic workplace culture year-round.