Co-Op - Mechanical

Union Pacific Railroad; Omaha (NE); Hybrid; USD 32,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing assistance

Relocation stipend

Hybrid work environment

On-site facilities

Job summary

Union Pacific Railroad is seeking engineering students for its Mechanical Department Co‑Op Program in Omaha, NE. The role offers hands-on learning with up to 40 hours per week, spanning field assignments and a transition to the Omaha headquarters, with potential travel across the network.

Compensation ranges from $23 to $28 per hour, based on year of study, qualifications, experience, and internal equity. Relocation and housing assistance are provided, and a hybrid work environment is available

Qualifications

• College credits equivalent to one year or more toward an undergraduate degree.
• Valid driver’s license is required.
• Basic organization and prioritization skills.
• Basic time and project management skills.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills.
• GPA of 2.7 or higher (preferred).
• College credits equivalent to two years or more toward an undergraduate degree (preferred).
• Pursuing a related engineering or related field degree (preferred).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with willingness to learn.
• Experience outdoors in variable weather conditions (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Learn core business processes and systems within department operations.
• Assist with process improvement projects at locomotive or railcar facilities.
• Develop standard work documentation and value stream maps to support operational efficiency.
• Apply Lean or Six Sigma concepts to real-world business challenges.
• Collaborate with shop employees and department leaders to implement solutions.
• Build and strengthen a network of professional contacts across the company.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Valid driver's license

Organization & prioritization

Time management

Verbal & written communication

Job description

Reference Number: 5171

Department: Mechanical

Union Pacific is one of America's premier transportation and logistics companies, linking 23 states in the western two-thirds of the country and serving many of the fastest-growing U.S. cities. We're looking for high-energy, analytical problem solvers who value teamwork and want to make a difference in the transportation industry. At Union Pacific, we move fast, think smart, and innovate to solve real-world challenges and we invite you to be part of that momentum through a meaningful co-op experience.

Union Pacific's Mechanical Department Co-Op Program offers engineering students an extended, hands-on learning opportunity that goes beyond the scope of a traditional summer internship. Participants will work up to 40 hours per week while engaging in strategic projects, traveling across the network, and gaining exposure to both field operations and corporate initiatives.

Projects may include reliability improvements, fuel efficiency initiatives, or support for new technology rollouts. The Co Op will collaborate with shop employees and department leaders, manage assignments from start to finish, and contribute to operational efficiency and safety.

Program Structure

Duration: Up to 40 hours per week, May-December

May-July: Field assignment at a major locomotive or railcar facility

August-December: Transition to Omaha headquarters

Travel: May be required throughout the network during the fall to support project work

Relocation and Housing: Assistance will be provided

The estimated wage for this position is between $23-$28 per hour. Final rate of pay will be based on several factors including year of study, qualifications, experience, and internal equity.

Accountabilities

• Learn core business processes and systems within department operations
• Assist with process improvement projects at locomotive or railcar facilities
• Develop standard work documentation and value stream maps to support operational efficiencyApply Lean or Six Sigma concepts to real-world business challenges
• Collaborate with shop employees and department leaders to implement solutions
• Build and strengthen a network of professional contacts across the company
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications - Required

• College credits equivalent to one (1) year or more toward an undergraduate degree
• Valid driver's license
• Basic organization AND prioritization skills
• Basic time and project management skills
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills

Qualifications - Preferred

• GPA of 2.7 or higher
• College credits equivalent to two (2) years or more toward an undergraduate degree
• Currently pursuing a degree in a related field such as Aerospace Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Engineering Management, Industrial Management, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering or Supply Chain Management
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a willingness to ask questions and learnAbility to think critically, evaluate various options and make decisionsStrong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience working outdoors in variable weather conditions (professional, personal, and volunteer experience may be considered)

Physical and Mental Job Requirements

• This position requires extended periods of sitting and extended hours in front of computer screens
• Maintain concentration, focuses on tasks and can make timely decisions

Work Conditions

• Authorized to work in the United States without company sponsorship
• 18 years of age or older

What we offer:

• Housing, Transportation, and Relocation stipends for qualified candidates
• A strengths-based, engagement-focused, and performance-oriented culture
• A flexible and hybrid work environment that allows you to work on-site and from home (as the job allows)
• On-site cafeteria (with employee discount), fitness center (free to employees), federal credit union, all in Union Pacific Center headquarters building in Omaha, Nebraska
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Competitive compensation
• Engaging activities with other interns and educational visits to Union Pacific facilities