What are the responsibilities and job description for the Fall 2025 - Co-op: Photonic Process Automation position at Pendar Technologies?
About Pendar Technologies
Pendar Technologies is a growing high-tech company advancing intelligent chemical analysis. We develop cutting-edge solutions for first responders, law enforcement, and military personnel to identify hazardous materials in the field. Our flagship product, the Pendar X10, is a state-of-the-art, rugged, and portable device that integrates sophisticated opto-mechanical and electronic systems for chemical identification.
The Role
We are seeking two Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Science students for a Photonic Process Automation Co-op from July to December 2025. In this role, you will contribute to the development of assembly and testing robotic cells for opto-electro-mechanical modules—key components of our flagship product. This position offers hands-on experience in robotics, automation, and process development in a dynamic, collaborative environment.
Your Responsibilities
Pendar Technologies is a growing high-tech company advancing intelligent chemical analysis. We develop cutting-edge solutions for first responders, law enforcement, and military personnel to identify hazardous materials in the field. Our flagship product, the Pendar X10, is a state-of-the-art, rugged, and portable device that integrates sophisticated opto-mechanical and electronic systems for chemical identification.
The Role
We are seeking two Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Science students for a Photonic Process Automation Co-op from July to December 2025. In this role, you will contribute to the development of assembly and testing robotic cells for opto-electro-mechanical modules—key components of our flagship product. This position offers hands-on experience in robotics, automation, and process development in a dynamic, collaborative environment.
Your Responsibilities
- Collaborate with the optomechanical team to understand manual assembly steps for critical submodules and help develop semi- or fully automated assembly processes.
- Design and test simple electronic circuits for data acquisition and actuation, including motors, relays, pneumatic valves, LED drivers, signal conditioning, and digital image acquisition.
- Write new code and maintain existing Python-based software for controlling Pendar's robotic assembly cells.
- Assist in developing automated test procedures to evaluate the performance of assembled submodules.
- Optimize assembly processes to improve yield and performance compared to manual procedures.
- Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or Electrical & Computer Engineering (ECE).
- Proficiency in Python and experience with object-oriented programming.
- Familiarity with PyQt is a plus.
- Strong communication and documentation skills.
- A hands-on approach with attention to detail and a passion for problem-solving.
- Cambridge, MA (near Alewife T Station), accessible by public transit.
- On-site parking available.
