What are the responsibilities and job description for the Mechanical Engineering Co-Op position at Geophysical Survey Systems Inc.?
Who We Are:
GSSI is the world leader in Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), which helps to save lives and resources across the globe by measuring and viewing what is beyond our sight through concrete, pavement, soil, and more! We value continuous improvement, innovation, communication, team development, impact and accountability, customer orientation, and having fun while we do it all! Our outstanding work environment is the reason we were voted Best Company to Work for in New Hampshire by Business NH Magazine in 2019, 2020 & 2022.
Job Summary
The Mechanical Engineering Co-op will assist experienced engineers in designing, developing, and testing mechanical and electro-mechanical systems for GSSI ground penetrating radar products. This position provides a unique opportunity to bridge academic learning with practical, real-world application through hands-on projects, mentorship, and cross-functional collaboration.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and analysis: Assist with the design and analysis of mechanical parts and assemblies using CAD software like Autodesk Inventor (preferred) or SolidWorks. Perform calculations and simulations (e.g., Finite Element Analysis) to evaluate and validate designs.
- Prototyping and testing: Build, test, and debug prototypes and test fixtures. Participate in engineering tests and experiments to assess product performance, reliability, and safety.
- Process improvement: Support manufacturing process improvement projects, including updating work instructions, implementing new equipment, and optimizing workflows.
- Documentation and reporting: Create and manage engineering documentation, such as Bills of Materials (BOMs), assembly drawings, and Engineering Change Orders (ECOs). Compile, analyze, and present test data and research findings to technical teams.
- Collaboration: Work with multi-disciplinary teams, including other engineers, technicians, and manufacturing personnel, to ensure designs meet all project specifications and requirements.
- Problem-solving: Investigate and troubleshoot equipment failures or design-related issues and propose potential solutions.
Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in a Bachelor of Science program for Mechanical or related Engineering at an accredited university.
- Strong foundation in fundamental mechanical engineering principles.
- Familiarity with 3D CAD software (e.g., Autodesk Inventor or SolidWorks).
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a motivated, self-starting attitude.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment and collaborate with others.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Learning Outcomes
Throughout the co-op, the student will gain valuable experience by:
- Applying academic theory to practical engineering challenges.
- Developing and honing technical skills in design, analysis, and testing.
- Learning professional communication and documentation best practices.
- Working in a fast-paced, real-world engineering and manufacturing environment.
- Gaining exposure to the full product lifecycle, from concept to production.