Mechanical Engineering Co-op - Utilities and Central Energy

KFI Engineers; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Part time

Job summary

KFI Engineers is seeking a Mechanical Engineering Co-op to gain real-world exposure across our Utilities & Central Energy projects. You will participate in site visits, perform calculations, and assist in schedule development and reporting. Ideal candidates are pursuing a Mechanical Engineering degree with strong MS Office skills.

Two years of coursework preferred; opportunity for mentorship, growth, and exposure to diverse engineering disciplines within a national firm.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or similar field.
• Proficiency with MS Office tools.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with attention to detail.
• Effective time management and organization.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.
• Commitment to professional engineering ethics and policies.
• Ability and willingness to travel if needed.
• Completed at least two years of college coursework is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Visit sites to gather field information as required.
• Perform engineering calculations.
• Develop and update Excel spreadsheets for documents.
• Participate in meetings, providing analysis and recommendations.
• Assist in developing and maintaining project schedules.
• Prepare reports.
• Create schedules to manage workload and meet deadlines.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

MS Office

Verbal & written comms

Analytical thinking

Time management

Independent & collaborative

Engineering ethics

Willingness to travel

Education

Pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

Job description

POSITION SPECIFICATION

Position: Mechanical Engineering Co-op

Department: Utilities & Central Energy (UCE)

Start Date: Spring Semester 2027

WHO WE ARE

KFI Engineers is a recognized industry leader in facility infrastructure design and performance. Since 1996, our culture of collaboration and unique capabilities have allowed us to make a difference in the way infrastructure and processing projects are delivered.

Headquartered in St. Paul, MN, with numerous regional offices throughout the United States, and a team of hundreds of professionals, we offer opportunities to continue your career with mentorship programs, career growth support, and continued education. With KFI, we find a way to provide creative solutions to unique projects while providing the same care we would expect if we were the client. For more information about KFI Engineers and our culture, please visit www.kfi-eng.com.

THE OPPORTUNITY

At KFI, we see Co‑ops as a valuable investment in our future. Our Co‑op program offers you the opportunity to learn our business, gain exposure to various projects and industry sectors, and enhance your engineering skills.

Co-op Program Benefits

• Hands-on, real-world experience in the consulting engineering industry.
• Work with impactful projects.
• Learning opportunities through mentorship.
• Occasional site visits.
• Network with leading experts in the industry.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Specific responsibilities will include, but not be limited to, the following:

• Site visits to gather field information as required.
• Perform engineering calculations.
• Develop and update Excel spreadsheets for document preparation.
• Participate in company meetings, providing analysis, input, and recommendations.
• Assists in the development and maintenance of project schedules.
• Report writing.
• Develop schedule to manage workload across assigned activities to achieve deadlines.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or similar area of study.
• Demonstrated proficiency with computer technology, including MS Office applications.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with strong attention to detail.
• Effective time management and organizational abilities.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively, adapting quickly to shifting priorities and workload demands.
• Consistently demonstrate professional engineering ethics and adhere to company policies and procedures.
• Ability and willingness to travel if needed.

Preferred

• Completed at least two years of relevant college coursework.
• Working knowledge of engineering design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit).
• Interest in building systems, construction environments, and/or commercial HVAC.
• Comfortable working in both office and construction site settings.

Working Conditions

• Occasionally, some work locations will feature the tough terrain typical of construction sites or require lifting or moving field testing equipment.

CORE BEHAVIORS

Accountable

• Demonstrates persistence in the achievement of goals.
• Acts with a sense of urgency.
• Takes responsibility for own actions.

Business Focus

• Demonstrates agility, adapts well to changes.
• Works well under pressure.
• Meets commitments to internal/external customers.

Project Execution

• Plans projects well, managing last-minute rushes and disruptions.
• Balances Speed and Quality.
• Looks for improvement in our delivery, tools and processes.
• Other duties as assigned.

Demonstrates Respect for Others

• Keeps others adequately informed.
• Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views.
• Adapts communication style and method based on audience and situation.

Team Player

• Balances team and individual responsibilities.
• Shares expertise with others.
• Inspires respect and trust.

Compensation

$23.00 per hour. The final agreed upon compensation is based on individual qualifications, experience, work location, and education. This position will earn ESST (Earned Sick and Safe Time) in accordance with state and local law.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, responsibilities and activities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

This position is not eligible for Visa sponsorship.

KFI Engineers is an EOE including veterans and disability.