Mechanical CAD Engineering Intern

Location: Ottawa, ON (on-site)
Employment type: Co-op / Internship
Duration: 4–8 months (depending on academic program)
Hours: 35–40 hours per week
Salary range: $18 – $25 CAD per hour, based on academic level and relevant experience

About Q-Block Computing:  Q-Block Computing builds quantum systems that operate in the real world. The company develops quantum timing, quantum-secure communications, and quantum computing platforms engineered for the performance, reliability, and environmental resilience that mission-critical applications demand — systems designed to be deployed, maintained, and trusted by operators who cannot afford ambiguity about whether the technology works.

The long-term vision is deeper than any single platform. Q-Block is pursuing a mission to decode Nature's foundational model — to build instruments of sufficient precision and coherence that they become tools for understanding the physical universe at its most fundamental level. Commercialization and science reinforce each other by design.

About this role:  The Mechanical CAD Engineering Intern will work alongside Q-Block's engineering team on the mechanical and optomechanical design of quantum hardware — precision components and assemblies that have to perform under demanding environmental constraints, including ultra-high vacuum, thermal extremes, and other conditions where casual design choices do not survive. The role is hands-on CAD work with real consequences: the parts you model will be machined, assembled, tested, and iterated.

The successful candidate is a motivated mechanical engineering student with solid CAD fundamentals, genuine curiosity about precision hardware, and the discipline to document work carefully as they go. This is a co-op designed to build depth — not to watch from the sidelines.

Responsibilities

• Design and model precision mechanical and optomechanical components using SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, CATIA, or comparable CAD software.
• Develop detailed technical drawings and 3D assemblies for engineering projects across Q-Block's hardware programs.
• Support the design and prototyping of components intended for demanding operating environments, including UHV compatibility, thermal extremes, and related constraints.
• Work with exotic and precision-grade materials (titanium, Invar, stainless steels, aluminum alloys, ceramics, composites) with attention to manufacturability and structural integrity.
• Apply appropriate tolerancing, fits, and fastening practices for optics-grade and quantum hardware assemblies.
• Collaborate with engineers and scientists to translate requirements into clean, manufacturable mechanical solutions.
• Participate in design reviews and iterate on designs based on review feedback.
• Document design decisions, part specifications, and validation results.
• Assist with prototype build-up, test fits, and validation activities as needed.
• Contribute to a culture of craftsmanship, learning, and honest technical discussion.

Required qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Engineering Physics, or closely related undergraduate program.
• Minimum completion of 2nd year coursework (60+ credit hours) at the start of the work term.
• Demonstrated academic or project experience in mechanical design using CAD software.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD modeling and technical drawing (SolidWorks, Inventor, CATIA, AutoCAD, or equivalent).
• Working understanding of tolerancing, fits, and mechanical fasteners.
• Familiarity with basic materials selection for mechanical design.

Preferred qualifications

• Coursework or project exposure to optomechanical design, vacuum-compatible engineering, or aerospace mechanical design.
• Experience with CAM software and practical understanding of CNC machining principles.
• Familiarity with FEA tools and thermal or structural simulation software.
• Hands-on fabrication, workshop, or laboratory experience (student design teams, maker-spaces, research labs).
• Exposure to design-for-manufacturability practices.
• Portfolio of CAD models, technical drawings, or documented design projects.

Security and compliance requirements

• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain Government of Canada security clearance, if required for assigned projects.
• Must be eligible to comply with requirements of the Controlled Goods Program, if required for assigned projects.
• Must be willing to participate in background screening, documentation, and compliance processes associated with security-sensitive work.

Skills and attributes

• Detail-oriented, with a commitment to precise engineering documentation and process.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Clear written and verbal communication; able to present design decisions and accept feedback.
• Initiative and flexibility to adapt as project priorities evolve.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic, multidisciplinary team.

What you will gain

• Direct mentorship from senior mechanical and quantum hardware engineers.
• Hands-on experience designing for demanding operating environments.
• Exposure to the full arc from CAD model to machined, assembled, and tested hardware.
• Professional development, networking within the quantum and deep-tech community, and potential consideration for future co-op terms or full-time employment.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly compensation based on academic level and relevant experience
• Extended health care (including dental and vision)
• Life insurance

Application requirements

• Resume detailing relevant coursework, engineering projects, and technical skills.
• Brief cover letter describing your interest in mechanical engineering, quantum hardware, and design for demanding environments.
• Academic transcript (unofficial accepted).
• Portfolio of CAD models, technical drawings, or past design projects (links preferred).

Equal opportunity

Q-Block Computing is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering inclusion and respect. Accommodations are available on request during the application and interview process. All interested students meeting the qualifications are encouraged to apply.