Automation/Controls Engineering Co-Op - Spring 2027

Flex; Libertyville (IL); On-site; USD 17,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

Flex in Libertyville, IL, is seeking an Automation/Controls Engineering Co-Op to support PLC-based automation systems for molding, coiling and buffer projects, reporting to the Process & Automation Engineering Team. As part of a cross-functional team, you will assist with PLC testing, FAT/SAT preparation, sensor/actuator/HMI troubleshooting, and automation documentation.

This in-person role requires 40 hours per week for Spring 2027, enrollment in a 4-year program, and a 3.0 GPA; come grow in a

Qualifications

• Pursuing BS in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or Automation Engineering.
• Basic PLC knowledge.
• Familiar with sensors, actuators, HMIs.
• Able to read electrical schematics and control panels.
• Understanding FAT/SAT testing and system validation concepts.
• Strong troubleshooting and teamwork skills.
• Manufacturing internship/co-op experience a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist with PLC testing and troubleshooting.
• Support FAT/SAT preparation and execution.
• Assist with sensor, actuator, and HMI troubleshooting.
• Support automation documentation and architecture reviews.
• Assist with buffer timing logic validation and system re-testing.
• Attend team meetings to support project work as needed.

Skills

Basic PLC knowledge

Sensor/actuator/HMI understanding

Read electrical schematics

Automation architecture concepts

FAT/SAT testing concepts

Troubleshooting

Documentation

Teamwork

Education

BS in Electrical Engineering / Mechatronics / Automation Engineering

Enrolled in 4-year accredited university

GPA 3.0

Tools

Industrial control panels

Job description

Flex is the diversified manufacturing partner of choice that helps market-leading brands design, build and deliver innovative products that improve the world. A career at Flex offers the opportunity to make a difference and invest in your growth in a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative environment.

To support our extraordinary teams who build great products and contribute to our growth, we’re looking to add an Automation/Controls Engineering Co-Op located in our Libertyville, IL site. Reporting to Process & Automation Engineering Team, the student will support PLC-based automation systems for molding, coiling and buffer integration while collaborating and working alongside Engineers and cross-functional teams.

What a typical day looks like:

• Assist with PLC testing and troubleshooting


• Support FAT/SAT preparation and execution


• Assist with sensor, actuator, and HMI troubleshooting


• Support automation documentation and architecture reviews


• Assist with buffer timing logic validation and system re-testing


• Attend team meetings to support project work as needed

Student qualities we’re seeking for this Co-Op assignment:

• Currently enrolled BS student pursuing degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or Automation Engineering major


• Basic PLC knowledge


• Understanding of industrial sensors, actuators, and HMIs


• Ability to read electrical schematics and understand control panels


• Basic knowledge of automation architecture and timing/sequence logic


• Understanding of FAT/SAT testing and system validation concepts


• Strong troubleshooting, documentation, and teamwork skills


• Previous manufacturing floor internship/co-Op experience a plus!

Co-Op Program Requirements:

• Ability to work 40 hours/week (in person) during the Spring 2027 co-Op assignment


• Currently enrolled in 4-year accredited university


• 3.0 GPA

Flex is an Equal Opportunity Employer and employment selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. We do not discriminate based on: age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, pregnancy status, or any other status protected by law. We're happy to provide reasonable accommodations to those with a disability for assistance in the application process. Please email [e-mail] and we'll discuss your specific situation and next steps (NOTE: this email does not accept or consider resumes or applications. This is only for disability assistance.