Internship – Image-Based Measurement System (6-12 months)

ETH Zurich seeks an intern to help transform an optical measurement prototype into a robust industrial system, combining mechanical design, integration, and Python-based computer vision.

The successful candidate will join a Zurich-based team to advance an industrial optical measurement system from a functional prototype to a reliable, shop-floor-ready unit. This role involves bridging mechanical engineering, optomechatronics, and software development to create a standardized, repeatable measurement process.

Responsibilities

• Refine the current prototype into a durable, easy-to-use system capable of operating in industrial environments.
• Create detailed CAD models for mechanical parts, including enclosures, mounting hardware for cameras and optics, motorized focusing mechanisms, rotary axes, and custom fixtures.
• Assemble optical, mechanical, motion, and control elements into a standalone unit and define a consistent procedure for image acquisition.
• Build Python workflows for image processing and annotation, and train segmentation models to automatically detect and measure visual features.

Requirements

• Citizenship of Switzerland, the EU, or EFTA, or a valid Swiss work permit.
• Currently pursuing a BSc or MSc in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, Product Development, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Hands-on experience or a strong interest in mechanical design and CAD tools.
• Programming proficiency, particularly in Python, along with an interest in computer vision, image processing, or machine learning.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.

Nice to have

• Familiarity with manufacturing drawings, prototyping techniques, or design for manufacture principles.
• Prior exposure to cameras, microscopy, motion systems, PyTorch/TensorFlow, GUI development, or test-bench automation.
• Ability to communicate in French or German.

What the company offers

• A 6-12 month internship position focused on the full development lifecycle of an industrial optical measurement system.
• The chance to directly contribute to evolving a functional prototype into a complete industrial unit within the Zurich team.

About the company

ETH Zurich fosters an environment where interdisciplinary, industry-oriented teams collaborate on practical engineering challenges.

• Collaboration within interdisciplinary teams that focus on industry-relevant applications.