Manufacturing Engineer Intern - Summer 2027

Socket.dev; Pella (IA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Vermeer Corporation is seeking an engaged Manufacturing Engineer Intern to support real‑world projects that improve production processes and drive operational excellence. You will gain hands‑on experience in lean manufacturing, process improvement, and cross‑functional collaboration, paving the way for a full‑time engineering role after graduation.

Work involves supporting process improvements, new product introductions, and data‑driven decision‑making using ERP, Power BI, and IoT‑enabled

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in a related engineering field.
• Foundational understanding of lean manufacturing concepts and process improvement.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic schematics.
• Familiarity with JIT manufacturing and digital manufacturing tools is a plus.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving and communication skills with a growth mindset.

Responsibilities

• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance quality, efficiency and sustainability.
• Support new product introductions and manufacturing improvement initiatives with cross‑functional teams.
• Apply lean principles, including JIT and Kaizen events, to reduce waste and improve flow.
• Document and analyze current and future state processes using value stream mapping and standard work.
• Help design tooling and fixtures; gain exposure to digital work instruction platforms.
• Contribute to documentation and change management using PLM/ECN systems like Teamcenter/Windchill.
• Participate in data‑driven decisions using ERP systems, Power BI dashboards, and IoT‑enabled monitoring.

Skills

Lean manufacturing concepts

Process improvement

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Technology/Mechanical Engineering/Manufacturing Engineering/Agricultural Engineering or related field

Tools

ECN/PLM systems (Teamcenter/Windchill)

Job description

Who We Are

Vermeer equips customers doing important work around the world. We are global, driven by innovation and growing. The equipment we make manages natural resources, connects people and feeds and fuels communities. We live out a caring culture, we demonstrate agility, we keep a focus on customers and are stewards of our resources. These beliefs drive our culture, determine how we treat others and steer our business.

Work Shift

1 - First Shift

Job Summary

Are you energized by solving problems and improving how things are made? As a Manufacturing Engineer Intern at Vermeer, you’ll support real-world projects that enhance production processes and drive operational excellence. This internship offers hands-on experience in lean manufacturing, process improvement, and cross-functional collaboration - preparing you for a full-time engineering role upon graduation.

What You’ll Do

1. Assist in identifying and implementing process improvements that enhance quality, efficiency, and sustainability across production areas.

2. Support new product introductions and manufacturing improvement initiatives by collaborating with engineering, welding, assembly, and machining teams.

3. Apply lean manufacturing principles - including Just-In-Time (JIT) production and Kaizen events - to reduce waste and improve flow.

4. Document and analyze current and future state processes using tools such as value stream mapping and standard work documentation.

5. Help design and optimize tooling and fixtures, and gain exposure to digital work instruction platforms.

6. Contribute to documentation and change management using Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) and Engineering Change Notification (ECN) systems such as Teamcenter or Windchill.

7. Participate in data-driven decision-making using Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, Power BI dashboards, and Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled process monitoring tools.

What We’re Looking For

- Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, or a related field.

- Foundational understanding of lean manufacturing concepts, tooling design, and process improvement techniques.

- Ability to read and interpret mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic schematics.

- Familiarity with JIT manufacturing, statistical process variation, and digital manufacturing tools is a plus.

- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills with a growth mindset.

- Willingness to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

Travel

Occasional travel is expected of this position.

Work Location

ONSITE: A team member's day-to-day work is best done on a Vermeer campus. If work content can be occasionally completed at an offsite location, discuss potential arrangements with your manager.

Equal Opportunity Employer

At Vermeer Corporation, we believe in the value of your unique identity, background, and experiences. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status or any other status protected by the law. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation due to a disability at any stage of the employment application process should contact Team Member Solutions at [phone] or at [e-mail].

Interested? We’d love to get to know you.