Product Engineering Intern - Manufacturing Systems & Fixture Design

About Quantum Design

For more than 40 years Quantum Design (QD) has been providing technology solutions to researchers in the fields of physics, chemistry, biotechnology, materials science, and nanotechnology. Established in 1982, Quantum Design is the leading commercial source for automated materials characterization systems offering a variety of measurement capabilities. QD instruments are found in the world's leading research institutions and have become the reference standard for a variety of magnetic and physical property measurements.

Job Description

The Opportunity The Product Engineering Intern – Manufacturing Systems & Fixture Design will support Product Engineering initiatives focused on improving manufacturing efficiency, product quality, and workplace safety. This role will lead to the redesign of a critical flex circuit calibration probe used in the production of DynaCool and OptiCool systems. The selected candidate will work closely with engineers and technicians to develop hardware and software improvements that enhance calibration reliability, improve manufacturing yields, and eliminate identified safety risks associated with the cryogenic calibration process. This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on engineering student interested in mechanical design, manufacturing processes, cryogenic systems, product development, and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Participate in the design, development, and testing of manufacturing fixtures and process improvements.
• Redesign the existing flex circuit calibration probe to improve reliability and operational safety.
• Incorporate secondary temperature-sensing capabilities to verify proper calibration conditions during testing.
• Develop or support software reporting tools that provide operator alerts when calibration conditions are outside acceptable limits.
• Create improved sealing mechanisms between the calibration probe and cryogenic vessel to prevent atmospheric contamination and ice formation.
• Evaluate and implement pressure-relief solutions to mitigate cryogenic safety risks.
• Create engineering documentation, test procedures, and operating instructions.
• Collaborate with engineers, technicians, and manufacturing personnel to validate designs and implement improvements.
• Participate in design reviews and present project recommendations to stakeholders.
• Support additional fixture and process-improvement projects as time allows.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in engineering, physical sciences, chemistry, or a related field, with at least two years of coursework completed.
• Experience with CAD software for mechanical design and assembly modeling.
• Interest in manufacturing processes, product development, and continuous improvement.

Soft Skills

• Ability to take direction and incorporate feedback from technical mentors.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to provide regular project updates and discuss technical progress.
• Comfortable presenting design concepts and recommendations in small-group design reviews.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.
• Self-motivated and eager to learn in a hands-on engineering environment.

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience in manufacturing and product engineering.
• Exposure to fixture design, cryogenic systems, mechanical design, and process improvement.
• Opportunities to work alongside experienced engineers and technicians.
• Experience conducting design reviews and presenting engineering solutions.
• Involvement in projects with measurable impact on manufacturing quality, efficiency, and safety.
• Practical application of CAD, testing, validation, and engineering documentation skills.

Additional Information

This position’s work mode is onsite. The employee will report to San Diego, CA. The internship begins in Summer 2026 and may continue into the Fall semester based on business needs and the intern's availability. Hourly: $30 - $35, actual compensation may vary based on education, experience, skills, and qualifications.

Quantum Design is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions, policies and practices are in accordance with applicable federal, state and local anti-discrimination laws.