Subtractive Manufacturing Engineering Co-op

Candidates must be local the Boston, MA area for consideration.

About This Role

Are you an engineering student who learns best by doing? We are looking for a Subtractive Manufacturing Engineering Co-Op to join our team. This is a hands-on role where you will work directly alongside experienced engineers — not just observing, but actively contributing to real production work, meaningful process improvements, and documentation that the team will use long after your term ends.

You will gain direct exposure to 3-, 4-, and 5-axis machining, CNC programming, fixture design, and quality system requirements in a precision manufacturing environment. If you are curious, mechanically inclined, and ready to roll up your sleeves and make an impact, this co-op is for you.

What You'll Do

CNC Programming

• Assist with the creation, simulation, and verification of CNC programs for 3-, 4-, and 5-axis milling and turning centers using hyperMILL, ESPRIT, and Fusion 360.

• Support machine setups, prove-out runs, and first-article validation alongside experienced machinists and engineers.

• Operate CNC machinery as needed to support prototype and production work, including basic setup, inspection, and troubleshooting.

Fixture Design

• Support the design and fabrication of workholding and fixturing solutions to improve setup repeatability and minimize cycle time.

• Collaborate with machinists and engineers to evaluate and refine fixturing approaches based on production feedback.

Documentation

• Assist in documenting machining processes, tooling lists, and setup sheets to ensure repeatability and compliance with quality system requirements.

• Help develop written work instructions that are clear and complete enough for others to independently execute part manufacturing.

• Support updates to existing process documentation to reflect current best practices and any changes implemented during the co-op term.

Process and Continuous Improvement

• Identify at least one continuous improvement opportunity during the co-op term, propose a solution, and support its implementation with guidance from the engineering team.

• Participate in root cause analysis and corrective action activities for production issues.

• Contribute to improvement projects related to machine utilization, process capability, and workplace organization (5S).

• Help refine tool paths, cut strategies, and manufacturing processes for improved quality and efficiency.

General Support

• Support other departments such as Quality, Additive Manufacturing, and Assembly as needed based on business demand.

• Attend team meetings and contribute actively to discussions, bringing a fresh perspective and a willingness to learn.

• Complete an end-of-term summary documenting key contributions, lessons learned, and recommended improvements for handoff to the engineering team.

• Support other projects and assignments as needed.

What You Can Expect To Learn

By the end of your 12 weeks, you will walk away with more than just resume experience. You will have built real, applicable skills including:

• Practical CAM programming skills — hands-on time developing and verifying programs for 3-, 4-, and 5-axis equipment using industry-standard software.

• How a Quality Management System works — and why precision, documentation, and compliance matter in a regulated manufacturing environment.

• Direct exposure to multi-axis machining operations — setup, prove-out, inspection, and production support on real jobs.

• A structured problem-solving approach — how to understand a problem, build a case for a solution, and see it through to implementation.

What We're Looking For

• Currently enrolled in an accredited bachelor's degree program in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related discipline.

• Completion of foundational coursework in manufacturing processes, materials, or engineering design is preferred.

• Basic exposure to machining principles and subtractive manufacturing concepts through coursework, lab work, or prior experience.

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, including a foundational understanding of GD&T.

• Exposure to CAM software such as hyperMILL, ESPRIT, Fusion 360, or similar platforms is preferred.

• Exposure to CAD software such as Fusion 360, SolidWorks, or similar is preferred.

• Basic understanding of G-code and CNC machine setup fundamentals is a plus.

• Experience operating CNC mills or lathes, with familiarity with Heidenhain, Okuma, or Haas CNC controllers, is a strong plus.

• Exposure to Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma principles through coursework or prior experience is beneficial.

Who You Are

• Hands-on and mechanically curious — you are most comfortable when you are learning by doing, not just watching from the sidelines.

• Detail-oriented — you take accuracy seriously, whether you are entering a tool offset or writing a setup sheet.

• A clear communicator — you can document what you did and explain it to someone else in plain language, for both technical and non-technical audiences.

• A fast learner — you pick up new concepts quickly and are not afraid to ask questions when you need clarity.

• A team player — you collaborate well with machinists, engineers, and quality staff, and you adapt your approach based on who you are working with.

• Driven to improve — you notice inefficiencies, speak up about them, and want to be part of the solution.

Physical Requirements

• Regularly operates a computer workstation for CAM programming, documentation, and communication tasks.

• Regularly stands, walks, and works on the manufacturing floor during machine setups, process observations, and production support activities.

• Must wear PPE at all times on the shop floor, including safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toed footwear.

• Occasionally lifts and carries tooling, fixturing, or materials weighing up to 25 lbs.

• Visual acuity required to read engineering drawings, inspect parts, and verify setup and process documentation.

About Rennscot MFG

Rennscot MFG, founded in 2017, started as a motorsports-focused shop in the aftermarket automotive industry. Now, they are a leading provider of advanced manufacturing services located in Woburn, MA. Rennscot MFG strives to be more than just a machine shop; they solve problems in innovative ways, using a suite of integrated services to fuel a passion for ideation. With a focus on diversifying into commercial and critical technology sectors, Rennscot MFG delivers cutting-edge technologies and unwavering commitment to quality. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including reverse engineering, metal & polymer additive manufacturing, and precision machining to support various industries’ needs. For more information, visit rennscotmfg.com.

ITAR Requirement

To conform to US Government export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a US citizen, lawful permanent resident of the US, protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the US Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here: https://www.pmddtc.state.gov/ddtc_public/ddtc_public?id=ddtc_public_portal_itar_landing.

EEO Statement

Rennscot MFG is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Rennscot MFG is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.