Product Engineer Co-Op

California Closets Corporate; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Part time

Job summary

California Closets Corporate in Grand Rapids, MI, seeks a Product Engineer Co-Op to gain real‑world experience in design, development, and testing. This multi‑rotation program covers CAD design, engineering documentation, and product validation across three rotations: Summer 2027, Winter 2028, and Fall 2028.

This paid Co‑Op provides hands‑on learning under mentorship and exposure to manufacturing processes.

Qualifications

• High School diploma required and currently enrolled in college or a recent graduate (within 2 years) preferred (Engineering preferred).
• Have completed at least one class in a lab setting with experience writing lab reports.
• Have completed at least one class or training using a 3D CAD software (OnShape or SolidWorks).
• Strong interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Create parts/assemblies within CAD Software, detail them in an engineering drawing and release using an Engineer Change Notice.
• Create or modify technical specifications with the direction of Product Engineer.
• Prototype product and product applications.
• Design and execution of testing protocols.
• Mock up existing parts to simulate future changes or new products.
• Mock up testing and analysis to determine if proposed changes are effective.
• Write lab reports detailing the protocol, results and analysis.
• Maintain project schedule and budget.
• Assist Engineering Product Engineers as assigned.
• Maintain Test Lab.
• Other duties as assigned by Engineering Manager.

Skills

CAD Software

Lab reports

Interpersonal skills

MS Office

Education

High School diploma

Currently enrolled in college or recent graduate (within 2 years)

Tools

OnShape

SolidWorks

Job description

Founded in 1978, California Closets has built a reputation as the leader and design authority in premium space management, delivering custom-designed organizational solutions and exceptional service.We believe home is more than just a place — it should be a source of creativity, comfort, and connection. From beautiful walk-in closets and entertainment centers to versatile pantries and home offices, we design custom storage solutions that add value to your life and home by making space for what belongs. Think of it as ‘practical magic.’

Job Description

Job Objective: As a Product Engineer Co-Op, you will work with a mentor to gain valuable real‑world experience assisting with design, development, and testing of product. This is a multi‑rotation commitment, not just a summer role. Rotations are designed to, but not limited to, the following rotation plan:

Learn essential engineering skills and processes within product design, manufacturing, testing.

Grow on learnings and gain confidence in more complex tasks within California Closets development process

This Co-Op will be for the 3 rotations of:

• Summer 2027 (May-Aug)
• Winter 2028(Jan-April)
• Fall 2028(Sept-Dec)

This is a paid Co-Op.

Note: This plan can be changed depending on agreed upon schedule.

We are attending the GSVU Career Fair on 10/14. Applications will be reviewed following the Career Fair.

Qualifications

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

Product Design/Development

Create parts/assemblies within CAD Software, detail them in an engineering drawing and release using an Engineer Change Notice.

Create or modify technical specifications with the direction of Product Engineer.

Prototype product and product applications

Design and execution of testing protocols

Mock up existing parts to simulate future changes or new products

Mock up testing and analysis to determine if proposed changes are effective

Write lab reports detailing the protocol, results and analysis

Maintain project schedule and budget

Assist Engineering Product Engineers as assigned.

Maintain Test Lab

Other duties as assigned by Engineering Manager

Essential Skills and Experience:

Training/Education Requirements: High School diploma (or equivalent) required and currently enrolled in college or a recent graduate (within 2 years) required (Engineering preferred)

Have completed at least one class within a lab setting with experience with writing lab reports

Have completed at least one class or training using a 3D CAD software (e.i. OnShape or Solidworks)

Strong interpersonal skills

Ability to work with limited supervision

Strong computer skills including: MS Office (especially Excel & PowerPoint).

Preferred Skills and experience:

Ability to create parts/assemblies/drawings within a CAD Software

Knowledge on how to use shop tools (chop saw, hand drills, nail gun, drivers, etc.)

Required to occasionally lift and/or carry up to 50 pounds.

Must be able to occasionally climb stairs, lift, pull, push, reach above shoulder level, reach forward, carry, bend, twist or stoop

Environmental exposures may include dust and loud noises.

Physical demands and work environment:

Required to occasionally lift and/or carry up to 50 pounds.

Must be able to occasionally climb stairs, lift, pull, push, reach above shoulder level, reach forward, carry, bend, twist or stoop

Environmental exposures may include dust and loud noises.

We are an equal opportunity employer. We E-Verify.
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.