Machine Shop Intern - Summer 2027

empirical Foods; South Sioux City (NE); On-site; USD 21,000 - 25,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing provided

Job summary

empirical Foods offers a summer machining internship designed to give students hands-on experience in a private manufacturing technology company. Interns work on real projects within the Machining department and have opportunities to interact with upper management during the program.

Internships run approximately 10–12 weeks, with housing provided when needed. Interns may be considered for full-time roles based on performance.

Qualifications

• Entry-level position; prior machining experience not required.
• Pursuing bachelor’s or technical degree in a related field.
• Ability to lift up to 60 lbs and perform physical tasks.

Responsibilities

• Complete saw cutting of materials as directed by Machine Shop Management. Set cutting speeds and adjust blade.
• Sharpen drill bits and end mills.
• Clean machines and machine shop daily. Duties include sweeping, wiping down machines, and removal of metal shavings and cutting oils.
• Help with tooling inventory, collecting, and putting tools away.
• May operate manual lathes, mills, and CNC machines. Operate surface grinder and other equipment, as needed.
• Inspect parts per print, responsible for documenting if parts have passed or failed.
• Help machinist on setting up parts.
• Locate and return tools back to inventory.
• Ability to perform all essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Skills

Entry level mechanical knowledge

General computer knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s or technical degree in related discipline

Job description

The empirical internship program is a best-in-class experience. It provides students the unique opportunity to work in a privately held, leading edge, manufacturing technology company. Our internship program helps us to identify future leaders as well as provide an opportunity for interns to experience our culture and see the variety of career paths available at empirical.

Internships are temporary summer positions that last approximately 10-12 weeks. Each intern will be assigned a project(s) affording the opportunity to actively contribute to the manufacturing organization and build a comprehensive understanding of their desired field.

Throughout the internship, you will have the chance to work with our internal teams on the assigned projects as well as meet with upper management to reflect on your personal and professional development.

If applicable, all interns will be considered for full-time positions based on their performance over the course of their internship. Housing provided when needed. Empirical arranges various intern activities including sporting events, dinners, team lunches, etc. to provide opportunities for socializing, professional development, and learning more about the company.

• Complete saw cutting of materials as directed by Machine Shop Management. Set cutting speeds and adjust blade.
• Sharpen drill bits and end mills.
• Clean machines and machine shop daily. Duties would include sweeping, wiping down machines, and removal of metal shavings and cutting oils.
• Help with tooling inventory, collecting, and putting tools away.
• May operate manual lathes, mills, and CNC machines. Operate surface grinder and other equipment, as needed.
• Inspect parts per print, responsible for documenting if parts have passed or failed.
• Help machinist on setting up parts.
• Locate and return tools back to inventory.
• Ability to perform all essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Skills And Abilities

• Entry level mechanical knowledge, familiar with industrial equipment and parts.
• General computer knowledge and proficiency.

Demonstrated Competencies

• Basic communication skills; speaking clearly and effectively and writing legibly and effectively.
• Must have regular and punctual attendance.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift, push, and pull up to 60 lbs.
• This position requires walking, standing, climbing, bending, reaching, and handling.

Experience

Experience in a machining or manufacturing environment preferred but not required.

Education

Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree or technical degree in related discipline.

Department

Machining