Automation Engineer Co-op

Randstad USA; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 34,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

MilliporeSigma is seeking an Automation Engineering Co-op for a January 2027 start to June 2027. The role focuses on designing and validating automation for liquid handling and packaging, plus hands-on lab work testing chemical compatibility.

The candidate should be actively enrolled in a Master of Engineering/Science program with programming skills in Python or MATLAB and experience in C/C++, C#, or PLC. This on-site co-op runs 8 AM–5 PM with competitive hourly pay.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a Master of Engineering/Science program focused on Mechanical, Mechatronics, Electrical or Chemical Engineering.
• Proficiency in Python or MATLAB; experience with C/C++, C#, or PLC programming for hardware control.
• Experience with 3D CAD/CAM platforms and 3D printing slicers.
• Hands-on laboratory experience with automated liquid handling and chemical compatibility.
• Strong analytical problem-solving and technical communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Optimize processes by implementing automation and AI-enabled robotics; design and validate hardware.
• Create concept designs for automating liquid handling, weighing and packaging.
• Perform mechanical layouts and functional specifications; test hardware against chemical compatibility.
• Analyze performance metrics, conduct feasibility studies and document results.

Skills

Python

MATLAB

C/C++

C#

PLC programming

robotics

Education

Master of Engineering/Science (enrolled)

High School diploma

Tools

SolidWorks

MasterCAM

3D printing slicers

Job description

***THIS IS A 6-MONTH CO-OP STARTING JANUARY 4, 2027 THROUGH JUNE 25TH, 2027. TO QUALIFY, THE CANDIDATE HAS TO BE ACTIVELY ENROLLED IN AN ACADEMIC PROGRAM*** At MilliporeSigma, they are at the forefront of life sciences, working tirelessly to tackle the industry's toughest challenges. By collaborating with the global scientific community, they strive to enhance health access worldwide. Their mission is clear: to equip scientists and engineers with top-notch lab materials, technologies, and services, making research and biotech production simpler, faster, and more successful. With a dedication to shaping the future of drug development, they're with our customers every step of the way, pioneering tomorrow's possibilities.

Requirements

• Education: Currently enrolled in a Master of Engineering/Science (M.Eng./M.Sc.) program focusedon Mechanical, Mechatronics, Electrical or Chemical Engineering.
• Programming: Proficiency in Python or MATLAB; experience with C/C++, C#, or PLC programming for hardware control.
• Technical Software: Proficiency with 3D CAD/CAM platforms (e.g., SolidWorks, MasterCAM or similar) and 3D printing slicers.
• Laboratory Skills: Hands-on experience with automated liquid handling platforms and understanding chemical compatibility principles.
• Soft Skills: strong analytical problem-solving abilities and excellent technical communication skills.

salary: $25 - $32 per hour

shift: First

work hours: 8 AM - 5 PM

education: High School

Responsibilities

The Automation Engineering Co-op will focus on optimizing existing processes by implementing automation and AI-enabled robotic solutions including its design and hardware validation.. The incumbent will create concept designs for automating liquid handling, chemical weighing and packaging processes, including but not limited to mechanical layouts and functional specifications. Additionally, the role involves hands-on laboratory work to test hardware's chemical compatibility and execute validation protocols on an automated liquid handler or other robotics solutions. Responsibilities include analyzing performance metrics, conducting feasibility studies, and documenting technical test results.

The ideal candidate is curious, hands-on, and interested in applying engineering principles, robotics, and data-driven or AI-powered automation approaches to real process improvement opportunities.

Concept Design & Process Automation

• Create concept designs for process automation systems.
• Develop mechanical layouts and functional specifications.
• Conduct feasibility studies and perform simulations for new automation equipment.
• Manufacture POC/prototypes using 3D printing or CNC machining

Hardware Testing & Validation

• Test hardware integration for chemical compatibility.
• Execute protocols on automated liquid handlers and other autonomous solutions
• Analyze performance metrics.
• Document test results and technical deviations.

Skills

• Python (6 months of experience is preferred)
• MATLAB (6 months of experience is preferred)
• C (6 months of experience is preferred)
• C++ (6 months of experience is preferred)
• PLC (6 months of experience is preferred)
• robotics (6 months of experience is preferred)

Qualifications

• Years of experience: 0 years
• Experience level: Entry Level

Experience

• Entry Level

Education

• High School (required)

Equal Opportunity Employer: Race, Color, Religion, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, National Origin, Age, Genetic Information, Disability, Protected Veteran Status, or any other legally protected group status.

Pay offered to a successful candidate will be based on several factors including the candidate's education, work experience, work location, specific job duties, certifications, etc. In addition, Randstad offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: medical, prescription, dental, vision, AD&D, and life insurance offerings, short-term disability, and a 401K plan (all benefits are based on eligibility).

This posting is open for thirty (30) days.