Mechanical CAD Engineering Intern

Job type: Co-op/Internship (4-8 months)

Location: On-site (Edmonton, AB & Wetaskiwin, AB)

Job Description: Q-Block Computing is seeking a highly motivated Mechanical CAD Engineering Intern (Co-op) to join our dynamic team and support the development of advanced quantum technology hardware. This role offers an exceptional opportunity to apply and sharpen your skills in CAD/CAM software, mechanical product design, and engineering for quantum products destined for extreme environments such as ultra-high vacuum (UHV), high temperatures, and space applications.

Job summary: As a Mechanical CAD Engineering Intern, you will collaborate closely with senior engineers to create and refine mechanical designs for quantum sensors, quantum computing systems, and specialized optomechanical assemblies. You will work on projects requiring careful consideration of exotic material properties and environmental constraints, including mechanical systems for UHV compatibility, space technology, and high-temperature or other extreme conditions.

Responsibilities

• Design and model precision mechanical and optomechanical components using leading CAD/CAM software (SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, CATIA, or similar)

• Develop detailed technical drawings and 3D assemblies for complex engineering projects

• Support product design and prototyping for quantum devices prepared for extreme environments (vacuum, high temperature, space)

• Incorporate exotic materials (e.g., titanium, Invar, ceramics, composites) in designs, ensuring manufacturability and structural integrity

• Work under constraints such as UHV requirements, optomechanical stability, thermal management, and spatial limitations

• Collaborate with engineering and physics teams to translate scientific requirements into robust mechanical solutions

• Participate in design reviews and iterate on mechanical designs following feedback

• Document design processes, part specifications, and testing protocols

• Assist in building prototypes, performing test fits, and executing validation tasks

Qualifications

• Enrolled in Mechanical Engineering or related undergraduate program

• Minimum completion of 2nd year coursework (60+ credit hours)

• Previous academic or project experience in mechanical design using CAD/CAM software

Skills

Technical Requirements:

• Proficiency in 3D CAD modeling and technical drawing (SolidWorks, Inventor, CATIA, AutoCAD, or similar)

• Knowledge of mechanical design principles for constrained environments (UHV, thermal, structural, optomechanical)

• Familiarity with materials science, including selection and application of exotic metals, ceramics, and composites

• Experience in product design, prototyping, and design for manufacturability (DFM)

• Understanding of tolerancing, fits, and mechanical fasteners suitable for optics and quantum hardware

Preferred Assets:

• Experience with CAM software and CNC machining principles

• Exposure to optomechanical design, vacuum-compatible engineering, or aerospace/mechanical constraints

• Familiarity with FEA (Finite Element Analysis) tools and thermal/mechanical simulation software

• Hands-on fabrication experience and workshop/lab skills

Professional Competencies:

• Detail-oriented, with a commitment to precise engineering documentation and process

• Strong analytical and creative problem-solving skills

• Excellent teamwork, communication, and technical presentation abilities

• Flexibility to adapt rapidly to evolving project requirements

• Initiative to identify design improvements and pursue technical solutions

Benefits

• Competitive hourly compensation based on academic level and relevant experience

• Extended health care benefits (inc. dental and vision)

• Life insurance

• Mentorship from experienced engineers and quantum hardware designers

• Exposure to leading quantum technology research and space-worthy engineering practice

• Professional development opportunities and networking

• Potential for full-time employment or future co-op terms

Application Requirements

• Resume detailing relevant coursework, engineering projects, and technical skills

• Cover letter describing your interest in quantum hardware design, mechanical engineering, and extreme environments

• Academic transcript (unofficial accepted for application)

• Portfolio of CAD models, technical drawings, or past design projects (links preferred)

Work Term Details

• Duration: 4-8 months (depending on academic program)

• Start dates: January, May, or September 2026

• Hours: 35-40 hours/week on-site

• Supervision: Direct mentorship from senior mechanical and quantum hardware engineers

• Learning outcomes: Experience engineering for advanced quantum tech, mastery of mechanical CAD/CAM, and development of professional engineering skills for extreme-use environments

Equal Opportunity: Q-Block Computing is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to fostering inclusion and respect. Applicants requiring accessibility accommodation in the application or interview process are encouraged to contact us for support.

All interested students meeting the qualifications are encouraged to apply. This is an outstanding opportunity for those excited about mechanical engineering, quantum technology, and design for the world's most demanding environments.