Mechanical Engineer Intern

JOB TITLE: Mechanical Engineer Intern

LOCATION: Boston, MA

JOB TYPE: Internship / Full-time / On-site

DURATION: 12–16 weeks

ABOUT ZETA SURGICAL

Zeta Surgical is a digital surgery company dedicated to improving the accuracy, safety, and accessibility of image-guided surgery. Our innovative navigation and robotics platform leverages cutting-edge computer vision and artificial intelligence to enable image-guided procedures directly at the point of care — opening new possibilities in emergency care and interventional medicine.

Founded by Harvard graduates and faculty, Zeta Surgical collaborates with leading universities and is backed by top-tier investors. We are a passionate, mission-driven team building the future of surgical precision.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are looking for a motivated Mechanical Engineering intern to join our team and contribute to the development and assembly of our surgical navigation systems. This is a hands-on role where you will work directly alongside our engineering, quality, and operations teams on real products used in the operating room.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assemble Zeta Navigation System components and subassemblies according to work instructions, drawings, and standard operating procedures
• Perform mechanical assembly tasks including cable routing, component installation, and basic system integration
• Conduct in-process inspections and basic functional checks to confirm build quality at each stage
• Support final system testing, troubleshooting, and documentation across production builds
• Maintain accurate manufacturing records including device history records, travelers, checklists, and inspection forms
• Identify and report assembly issues, nonconformances, or opportunities for process improvement
• Maintain a clean and organized work area in compliance with lab and cleanroom safety standards
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and operations teams to support production builds and design transfer activities

DESIGN PROJECTS YOU MAY CONTRIBUTE TO

• Surgical tool design — ergonomics, material selection, and sterile packaging for handheld instruments
• Robot cart development — mechanical design and integration of the mobile OR cart platform
• Navigation system enclosure — prototyping and refining enclosures for navigation hardware with thermal and regulatory considerations
• Optical tracking fixtures — precision mounts and fixtures for camera arrays and optical markers
• Rapid prototyping and DFM — using 3D printing and machining to prototype and transition designs to manufacturing
• Sterile packaging and testing — supporting validation and packaging design per FDA and ISO standards

QUALIFICATIONS

• Currently pursuing a BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA, or Fusion 360)
• Hands-on experience with assembly, prototyping, or fabrication
• Familiarity with GD&T, engineering drawings, and bills of materials
• Strong attention to detail and documentation habits
• Interest in medical devices, robotics, or surgical technology
• Experience in a lab, cleanroom, or manufacturing environment (preferred)
• Collaborative mindset with strong written and verbal communication skills

WHAT WE OFFER

• Competitive paid stipend
• Real ownership of meaningful engineering projects
• Mentorship from experienced engineers and clinical advisors
• Letter of recommendation upon successful completion
• Exposure to the full product development lifecycle in a fast-moving medical device startup