Hands-On Engineering Co-op Intern (Manufacturing)

JTEKT Corporation; Vonore (TN); On-site; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

JTEKT North America in Vonore, TN invites motivated students to join our Engineering Co‑Op/Internship. This full‑time program combines classroom knowledge with practical, hands‑on challenges on the manufacturing floor and in engineering offices.

You will work with seasoned professionals, engage in Lean initiatives, and contribute to scrap reduction, productivity gains, and cost improvements. Ideal candidates are pursuing Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Electrical Engineering with strong

Qualifications

• Education: Currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Electrical Engineering; junior/senior preferred.
• Strong ability to apply engineering principles to solve real-world 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.

Responsibilities

• Innovative Problem-Solving – Apply engineering principles to solve real-world manufacturing challenges using critical thinking and creativity.
• Engineering Support – Contribute to initiatives such as scrap reduction, productivity improvements, machine builds, and quality enhancements—making a direct impact on plant performance.
• Process Optimization – Support and refine existing equipment and processes to maximize efficiency, reduce downtime, and enhance overall operations.
• Design & Analysis – Conduct engineering analysis, perform calculations, and develop technical drawings to drive process improvements.
• Project Management – Lead and support projects, ensuring alignment with safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives while meeting strict deadlines.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration – Work closely with engineers, managers, and supervisors to troubleshoot issues, support new product launches, and drive operational excellence.
• Lean Manufacturing – Actively engage in lean initiatives, focusing on process improvements, waste reduction, and increased efficiency.
• Effective Communication – Clearly and professionally communicate with team members at all levels, ensuring collaboration and progress toward shared engineering goals.

Skills

Ask right questions

Communication and teamwork

Data collection and analysis

Time management

Problem solving

Continuous learning

Professional demeanor

Education

Pursuing Mechanical/Manufacturing/Electrical Eng degree

Tools

MS Office

Pro/Engineer

AutoCAD

CNC programming

PLC programming

Job description

JTEKT North America in Vonore, TN invites motivated students to join our Engineering Co‑Op/Internship. This full‑time program combines classroom knowledge with practical, hands‑on challenges on the manufacturing floor and in engineering offices.

You will work with seasoned professionals, engage in Lean initiatives, and contribute to scrap reduction, productivity gains, and cost improvements. Ideal candidates are pursuing Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Electrical Engineering with strong