Automation Engineer Co-op Spring 2027

Randstad USA; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 27,552,000 - 34,440,000; Full time

Job summary

MilliporeSigma, a global leader in life science research, seeks a 6-month Automation Engineering Co-op starting Jan 4, 2027, through June 25, 2027, in Milwaukee, WI. The role focuses on automating liquid handling, weighing, and packaging processes, with hardware validation and AI-enabled robotics.

The ideal candidate is enrolled in an M.Eng. or M.Sc. program and has experience with Python or MATLAB, and CAD tools such as SolidWorks. Hands-on lab work and strong communication are required.

Qualifications

• Enrolled in an M.Eng./M.Sc. program (Mechanical/Mechatronics/Electrical/Chemical).
• Proficiency in Python or MATLAB; experience with C/C++, C#, or PLC for hardware control.
• Proficient with 3D CAD/CAM tools and 3D printing slicers.
• Hands-on lab experience with automated liquid handling platforms and chemical compatibility.

Responsibilities

• Develop mechanical layouts and functional specifications.
• Conduct feasibility studies and simulations for new automation equipment.
• Create prototypes via 3D printing or CNC machining.
• Test hardware integration for chemical compatibility and validate on automated systems.
• Document results and deviations; analyze performance metrics.

Skills

Python

MATLAB

C/C++

C#

PLC programming

Soft skills

Analytical thinking

Education

M.Eng.

M.Sc.

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- NO RELOCATION STIPEND PROVIDED

MilliporeSigma is a global leader in life science research and biopharmaceutical manufacturing. Our culture thrives on creativity and a shared passion for advancing scientific discovery. We are seeking a co-op to join our dynamic Research \& Development team. This role supports the Life Science Biology franchise within MilliporeSigma.

The Automation Engineering Co-op student will focus on optimizing existing processes by implementing automation and AI-enabled robotic solutions including its design and hardware validation. The incumbent will create concepts 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

• 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.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a Master of Engineering/Science (M.Eng./M.Sc.) program focusing on 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