Mechanical Engineering Intern – Ocean Hardware & Prototyping (Ropeless Fishing)

LiftLabs builds EchoLift, a buoyancy-based ropeless fishing system that removes vertical lines from the water to reduce whale entanglements while helping trap-pot fisheries and Lobstermen keep operating efficiently. We design and build real hardware that has to survive harsh ocean conditions—this internship is hands-on, practical, and focused on shipping improvements that matter.

What you’ll do

You’ll work directly with our small team to design, build, and test EchoLift components and subassemblies. Typical projects include:

• Assisting with mechanical design iterations for marine hardware (housings, seals, connectors, buoy interfaces, mounting hardware)

• Prototyping and assembly (bench builds, small-batch builds, test fixtures)

• Testing and troubleshooting (pressure/vacuum/leak tests, saltwater durability checks, failure analysis)

• Creating and updating documentation (BOMs, assembly instructions, drawings, test plans)

• Improving serviceability and deck-handling usability through fast design/build/test loops

Example projects (what you might own this summer)

• Build a standardized leak-test / pressure-test setup
  Design and assemble a simple test fixture (adapters, gauges/sensors, procedures), run repeatable tests, log results, and turn it into a clear test SOP we can reuse.

• Improve a quick-swap connector or interface for deck handling
  Iterate on a mechanical interface to make deployment/retrieval faster and more reliable—design changes, prototypes, bench validation, and documentation.

• Redesign a housing subassembly for faster service/repair
  Simplify assembly steps, reduce failure points, and improve access to parts that wear—focused on reliability in saltwater and right-to-repair/serviceability.

• Create a “failure log” and root-cause improvements loop
  Track common failure modes from builds/tests, propose design/process fixes, validate with targeted testing, and document the changes.

• Prototype a small-batch manufacturing improvement
  Fixture/jig or assembly workflow improvement that reduces build time, improves consistency, or reduces cost—then quantify the impact.

What we’re looking for

• Currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related: Marine/Ocean Engineering, Mechatronics, Manufacturing)

• Comfortable working hands-on with tools and hardware (building, measuring, iterating)

• Strong practical instincts around materials, tolerances, sealing, and corrosion

• Organized communicator who can document work clearly and keep tasks moving

Bonus (nice to have, not required)

• CAD experience (SolidWorks, Onshape, Fusion 360)

• 3D printing and/or machining exposure

• Experience with O-rings/gaskets, pressure systems, or marine environments

• Basic electronics familiarity (enclosures, connectors, cable routing)

Details

• Location: Lowell, MA (in-person)

• Pay: $18/hour

• Schedule: 40 hours/week for the summer

• Start date: Late May 2026

How to apply

Send a resume plus a short note describing (1) a hands-on project you’re proud of and (2) your availability/start date. If you have a portfolio, include CAD screenshots or photos of builds.