Operations Intern - Machine Shop

Mason; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Mason Controls is seeking two motivated, hands-on Operations Interns for the machine shop for the Fall of 2026. This internship provides practical experience in planning, design, fabrication, programming, and project management within a manufacturing environment.

Interns will be assigned specific projects, track progress, deliver results, and present accomplishments at program conclusion. Essential duties include planning and managing projects, creating requirement documents, tracking weekly

Qualifications

• Pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Basic knowledge or interest in programming (Python, C++, or similar).
• Familiarity with CAD and/or 3D printing is preferred.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and manage assigned projects from concept through completion.
• Create project requirement documents and define scope, objectives, and deliverables.
• Track progress and provide weekly project status updates.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering and manufacturing.
• Follow all shop safety guidelines and best practices while working with equipment and tools.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Programming basics (Python/C++)

CAD familiarity

Problem solving

Teamwork & communication

Education

Pursuing degree in Mechanical Eng, Electrical Eng, Manufacturing Eng, Mechatronics or related field

Tools

CAD software

3D printing

Job description

Mason welcomes people who share our determination and high standards to join us in doing work that moves the world forward. We design, manufacture, and market highly engineered products and systems principally for the aerospace and defense markets. Mason offers world-class control devices and subsystems — such as control grips, throttles, and communications interfaces — for today's advanced cockpits, military vehicles, and other specialized applications. Our solutions fall into two broad categories: control products and components.

Mason welcomes people who share our determination and high standards to join us in doing work that moves the world forward. We design, manufacture, and market highly engineered products and systems principally for the aerospace and defense markets. Mason offers world-class control devices and subsystems — such as control grips, throttles, and communications interfaces — for today's advanced cockpits, military vehicles, and other specialized applications. Our solutions fall into two broad categories: control products and components.

Summary

Mason Controls is seeking two motivated, hands-on Operations Intern for the machine shop for the Fall of 2026. This internship is designed to provide practical experience in planning, design, fabrication, programming, and project management within a manufacturing environment. Each intern will be assigned specific projects and will be expected to track progress, deliver results, and present their accomplishments at the conclusion of the program.

Position Duties

Essential functions of the position include, but are not limited to:

• Plan, execute, and manage assigned projects from concept through completion
• Create project requirement documents and define scope, objectives, and deliverables
• Track progress and provide weekly project status updates
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering and manufacturing
• Follow all shop safety guidelines and best practices while working with equipment and tools
• Other duties as assigned

Core Projects

• Assist in the design and optimization of manufacturing processes and systems.
• Support the development and testing of new manufacturing methods and technologies.
• Collaborate with engineers and technicians to troubleshoot and resolve production issues.
• Conduct time studies and process analyses to identify areas for improvement.
• Participate in cross-functional teams to support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collect and analyze data to recommend improvements in production efficiency and quality.
• Assist in the preparation of documentation for process changes and new equipment.
• Contribute to the maintenance and updating of standard operating procedures.
• Support the implementation of lean manufacturing principles and practices.
• Aid in the development of safety protocols and ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Monitor and report on key performance indicators related to manufacturing operations.
• Participate in training sessions and workshops to enhance technical skills and knowledge.

Skills & Learning Objectives

During the internship, participants will gain experience and develop skills in:

Project Planning & Management

• Creating project requirement documents
• Managing timelines, deliverables, and reporting progress

Design & Fabrication

• Hands-on fabrication and prototyping
• Working with shop machinery, tools, and safety standards

Electronics & Testing

• Building prototype circuits and testing devices
• Supporting development of testing fixtures and systems

Operations Exposure

• Understanding manufacturing workflows and process improvements
• Gaining experience in cross-functional collaboration

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• Currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field
• Basic knowledge or interest in programming (Python, C++, or similar)
• Familiarity with CAD and/or 3D printing is preferred
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Strong communication and organizational skills

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, sit; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard / Operate machinery. Reaches, bends, twists. May lift up to 25 pounds. Regularly perform repetitive tasks. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Compensation range: $20 to $26 per hour

Others

This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be U.S. persons within the meaning of ITAR. ITAR defines a US person as: any individual who is granted U.S. citizenship; or any individual who is granted U.S. permanent residence (\"Green Card\" holder); or any individual who is granted status as a \"protected person\" under 8 U.S.C 1324b(a)(3).

Mason prohibits discrimination or harassment based on the following categories: race, color, religion, religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), national origin, ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, marital status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, age (40 years and over), sexual orientation, veteran and/or military status, protected medical leaves (requesting or approved for leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act or the California Family Rights Act), domestic violence victim status, political affiliation, and any other status protected by state or federal law.