Mechanical Engineering Co-Op: Hands-On Product Development

National Carwash Solutions; Grimes, Des Moines (IA, IA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

National Carwash Solutions in Grimes, IA is seeking a Mechanical Engineer Co-Op for Jan–May 2027 to support product development through mechanical design, analysis, prototyping, testing and documentation. The role offers hands-on work with engineering and shop personnel and exposure to potential market releases.

You will analyze projects, design test fixtures, evaluate equipment, and collaborate across departments while developing final project outcomes for leadership review.

Qualifications

• Sophomore, Junior or Senior year.
• Pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related degree.
• CAD solid modeling competency.
• Preferred analytical skills (FEA, CFD, Calcs).
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Effective written and verbal communication.
• Organized and effective time management skills.
• Self-directed with the ability to problem solve.
• Life-long learner and willing to learn new technologies.

Responsibilities

• Analyze assigned projects to develop strategies for completion including the establishment of plans, goals, and objectives.
• Design and build test fixtures
• Test and evaluate equipment to make or recommend design modifications
• Provide assistance to manufacturing, and service personnel with troubleshooting of equipment.
• Work "hands-on" with other engineering and shop personnel in equipment development.
• Work both independently and collaboratively to design products for potential market release (phrasing)
• Support research and development of product innovation
• Required to work cross functionally with other departments
• Develop and present final project outcomes to peer and leadership groups

Skills

CAD solid modeling

Analytical skills (FEA/CFD)

Teamwork

Written & verbal communication

Self-directed problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related degree (pursuing)

Tools

CAD software

Job description

National Carwash Solutions in Grimes, IA is seeking a Mechanical Engineer Co-Op for Jan–May 2027 to support product development through mechanical design, analysis, prototyping, testing and documentation. The role offers hands-on work with engineering and shop personnel and exposure to potential market releases.

You will analyze projects, design test fixtures, evaluate equipment, and collaborate across departments while developing final project outcomes for leadership review.