Engineering Co-op | Intern

NWU; United States; On-site; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Starting wage $20/hour

Full-time 1st shift

Job summary

NWU is seeking an undergraduate engineer for a hands-on role on the manufacturing floor. You will apply engineering principles to address production challenges and support lean initiatives.

This full-time position on 1st shift offers a starting wage of $20 per hour, exposure to CAD tools, CNC/PLC programming, and opportunities to contribute to safety, quality, and cost improvements while growing your technical skills.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Electrical Engineering (junior or senior preferred).
• Strong problem-solving using engineering principles applied to manufacturing challenges.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Experience with Pro/Engineer, AutoCAD, CNC programming, and/or PLC programming is highly desirable.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate with internal and external teams and stakeholders.
• Self-motivated with ability to work independently.
• Strong attention to detail, initiative, and ownership of projects.
• Ability to ask questions, manage time effectively, and remain composed under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Apply engineering principles to solve manufacturing challenges with critical thinking.
• Support scrap reduction, productivity improvements, machine builds, and quality enhancements.
• Optimize equipment and processes to maximize efficiency and reduce downtime.
• Conduct engineering analyses, perform calculations, and develop technical drawings.
• Lead and support projects aligned with safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
• Collaborate with engineers, managers, and supervisors to troubleshoot issues and support new product launches.
• Engage in lean manufacturing initiatives focusing on process improvements and waste reduction.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with team members at all levels.

Skills

Problem solving

Teamwork

Self-motivation

Attention to detail

Time management

Communication

Independent work

Proactive ownership

Education

Pursuing degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing/Electrical Engineering

Tools

Pro/Engineer

AutoCAD

CNC programming

PLC programming

Job description

Your Role

Here’s what you will be doing:

• Apply engineering principles to solve manufacturing challenges using critical thinking and creativity.
• Support initiatives such as scrap reduction, productivity improvements, machine builds, and quality enhancements.
• Optimize equipment and processes to maximize efficiency and reduce downtime.
• Conduct engineering analysis, perform calculations, and develop technical drawings.
• Lead and support projects aligned with safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
• Collaborate with engineers, managers, and supervisors to troubleshoot issues and support new product launches.
• Engage in lean manufacturing initiatives focusing on process improvements and waste reduction.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with team members at all levels.

About You

The company is looking for:

• Currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Electrical Engineering; junior or senior-level preferred.
• Strong problem-solving skills applying engineering principles to manufacturing challenges.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Experience with Pro/Engineer, AutoCAD, CNC programming, and/or PLC programming is highly desirable.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Self-motivated with ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Strong attention to detail, initiative, and proactive project ownership.
• Ability to ask the right questions, manage time effectively, and maintain composure under pressure.
• Commitment to respect, accountability, and continuous learning.

Compensation & Benefits

• Starting wage of $20.00 per hour.
• Full-time schedule: 1st shift, Monday to Friday, 40 hours per week.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

This role involves both hands-on work on the manufacturing floor and technical desk-based responsibilities. Candidates should be comfortable working in both settings.

• Manufacturing floor duties include problem-solving, troubleshooting, and collaboration with production teams.
• Exposure to varying temperatures, noise, fumes, limited dust, and oily coolants.
• Physical requirements include walking, climbing, bending, and occasional lifting up to 40 lbs.
• Use of personal protective equipment such as safety glasses with side shields and hearing protection is required.
• Office duties include data analysis, project planning, and documentation using engineering software.
• Substantial computer work requiring hand, arm, and finger dexterity.