Manufacturing Engineer - Royal Switchgear

Dotson; Bessemer (AL); Hybrid; USD 28,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing stipend

Hands-on engineering experience

Mentorship and training

Job summary

Royal Switchgear Manufacturing Company in Bessemer, AL seeks a Manufacturing Engineering Co-Op for Spring–Fall 2026. You will work with Engineering and Operations to support improvement initiatives, process evaluations, and product development in a hands-on manufacturing setting.

The role emphasizes CAD documentation, time studies, and collaboration with cross-functional teams. On-site work is required, with a competitive $25/hour wage and housing stipend for those commuting longer distances.

Qualifications

• Pursuing an engineering degree with related focus.
• Co-op rotation spans Spring, Summer, and/or Fall 2026.
• GPA of 2.75 or higher preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist design, testing, and documentation of custom switchgear components.
• Support production and manufacturing engineering teams with process improvements.
• Conduct time studies and analyze workflow efficiency.
• Collaborate with maintenance or quality teams to troubleshoot machinery performance.
• Gather and analyze production data to identify cost savings or efficiency gains.
• Participate in root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Create or update CAD drawings and engineering documentation.
• Coordinate projects related to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Attend team meetings, project briefings, and cross-functional workshops.
• Apply Lean manufacturing principles where applicable.

Skills

Problem solving

Communication

Analytical skills

Education

Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering

Tools

CAD software

Job description

Manufacturing Engineering Co-Op

Royal Switchgear Manufacturing Company Bessemer, AL

Position Type:

Traditional Co-Op (Multi-term Rotation) Spring 2026, Summer 2026, and/or Fall 2026

About Royal Switchgear:

Royal Switchgear Manufacturing Company is a leading manufacturer of high-quality electrical switchgear equipment serving the utility industry. As a division of Power Grid Components, we are committed to innovation, precision, and operational excellence. Our co-op students are integrated into real engineering projects and gain valuable industry experience while contributing to critical operations.

Position Summary:

As a Manufacturing Engineering Co-Op, you will work closely with our Engineering and Operations teams to support various improvement initiatives, process evaluations, and product development tasks. This rotation offers hands‑on experience in a manufacturing environment and exposure to engineering fundamentals applied in real‑world settings.

Responsibilities:

• Assist with the design, testing, and documentation of custom switchgear components
• Support production and manufacturing engineering teams with process improvements
• Conduct time studies and analyze workflow efficiency
• Collaborate with maintenance or quality teams to troubleshoot and improve machinery and equipment performance
• Gather and analyze production data to identify areas for cost savings or efficiency gains
• Participate in root cause analysis and help implement corrective actions
• Create or update CAD drawings and engineering documentation
• Help coordinate projects related to safety, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Attend and participate in team meetings, project briefings, and cross‑functional workshops
• Learn and apply Lean manufacturing principles where applicable

Qualifications:

• Currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering (or related field)
• Minimum classification: Sophomore by Spring 2026
• GPA of 2.75 or higher preferred
• Strong problem‑solving, communication, and analytical skills
• Willingness to work on‑site in a manufacturing environment
• Ability to commit to a traditional multi‑term co‑op rotation (Spring, Summer, and/or Fall 2026)

Benefits:

• $25/hour competitive wage
• Housing stipend available to students commuting more than 50 miles one way
• Hands‑on experience in a fast‑paced engineering environment
• Mentorship and training from experienced professionals
• Exposure to real manufacturing challenges and solutions
• Opportunity to return for future rotations or full‑time roles upon graduation

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to actual or perceived race, color, religion, creed, national origin, citizenship status, age, disability status, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.