Plastic Molding Engineering Co-Op - Spring 2027

Flex; Libertyville (IL); On-site; USD 30,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Flex is seeking a Plastic Molding Engineering Co-Op at our Libertyville, IL site. You will support injection molding process development and validation for high-precision medical components, working with Engineers and cross-functional teams.

The co-op runs Spring 2027, requires 40 hours/week in person, and enrollment in a related MS/BS program with a 3.0 GPA minimum. This hands-on role fosters growth and practical experience in a respected manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Pursuing MS/BS in Plastics Eng, Polymer Eng, Mechanical Eng, or Materials Science.
• Understanding of Injection Molding Process.
• Basic process validation knowledge in regulated environments; Defect & root cause analysis experience.
• Understanding of mold tooling components and ability to read basic mechanical drawings.
• Strong documentation and communication skills.
• Previous manufacturing floor internship experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist in injection mold trials and process window development.
• Support startup optimization and parameter validation.
• Perform short-shot and imbalance studies.
• Support defect analysis and root cause investigations.
• Assist IQ/OQ/PQ documentation.
• Support tooling PM and mold performance assessments.
• Attend team meetings to support project work as needed.

Skills

Injection molding

Documentation

Team collaboration

Education

Plastics/Mechanical Eng degree

Job description

Flex is the diversified manufacturing partner of choice that helps market-leading brands design, build and deliver innovative products that improve the world. A career at Flex offers the opportunity to make a difference and invest in your growth in a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative environment.

To support our extraordinary teams who build great products and contribute to our growth, we’re looking to add a Plastic Molding Engineering Co-Op located in our Libertyville, IL site.

Reporting to Process & Automation Engineering Team, the student will support injection molding process development and validation activities for high-precision medical components, while collaborating and working alongside Engineers and cross-functional teams.

What a typical day looks like:

• Assist in injection mold trials and process window development
• Support startup optimization and parameter validation
• Perform short-shot and imbalance studies
• Support defect analysis and root cause investigations
• Assist with IQ/OQ/PQ documentation
• Support tooling PM and mold performance assessments
• Attend team meetings to support project work as needed

Student qualities we’re seeking for this Co-Op assignment:

• Currently enrolled student pursuing MS/BS degree in Plastics Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Materials Science major
• Understanding of Injection Molding Process (injection molding fundamentals)
• Basic process validation knowledge in highly regulated environmentsDefect & root cause analysis experience
• Understanding of mold tooling components and ability to read basic mechanical drawings
• Strong documentation and communication skills
• Previous manufacturing floor internship experience a plus!

Co-Op Program Requirements:

• Ability to work 40 hours/week (in person) during the Spring 2027 co-op assignment
• Currently enrolled in accredited university
• 3.0 GPA min

Flex is an Equal Opportunity Employer and employment selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. We do not discriminate based on: age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, pregnancy status, or any other status protected by law. We're happy to provide reasonable accommodations to those with a disability for assistance in the application process. Please email [e-mail] and we'll discuss your specific situation and next steps (NOTE: this email does not accept or consider resumes or applications. This is only for disability assistance. To be considered for a position at Flex, you must complete the application process first).