Project Engineer Co-op (Mechanical or Civil)

Sappi; Cloquet (MN); On-site; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Sappi Cloquet Operations in Minnesota is seeking a full-time Mechanical or Civil Engineering student for a nine-month Co-op starting in January or June. The role offers hands-on experience in a world-class manufacturing environment and the chance to contribute to real projects.

You will gain exposure to CAD drafting, document management, and project support while learning from the Lead Project Engineer. Strong communication, organization, and a valid US work eligibility are essential; GPA 3.0+

Qualifications

• Completion of at least two years in an accredited engineering program, GPA 3.0+ preferred.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States without sponsorship
• Strong communication and organization skills

Responsibilities

• Create layouts and drawings using CAD tools
• Assist with documentation management of drawings and related documents
• Support planning of projects to improve production efficiency
• Collaborate with engineers and other departments on special projects

Skills

CAD

Excel

Word

Access

Project

AutoCAD

Inventor

Communication

Driver's license

Education

Two years in accredited engineering program

Tools

AutoCAD

Inventor

Access

Project

Job description

Sappi Cloquet Operations is seeking an energetic, self-motivated Mechanical or Civil Engineering student to join our Engineering Department as a full-time Co-op. This nine-month paid opportunity begins in January or June and offers hands-on experience in a world-class manufacturing environment.

Initial Training & Early Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Lead Project Engineer, you will learn core engineering support functions, including:

• Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) - Create layout and detailed drawings for mechanical, structural, civil, and general engineering design.
• Document Management Support - Assist with distribution, filing, and maintenance of engineering drawings and related documents.
• Completion of all required company safety training.

Engineering Responsibilities

After completing initial training, you will be paired with an engineer and begin contributing to active projects:

• Assist with planning and implementing projects that improve production efficiency.
• Support engineers and other departments with special projects, presentations, and technical tasks.
• Gain exposure to a wide range of engineering activities across a major integrated pulp and paper facility.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel required.
• Experience with Microsoft Access, Project, FrontPage, Autodesk AutoCAD, Autodesk Inventor, or Visual Basic is desirable.
• Strong oral and written communication skills and the ability to work respectfully and collaboratively with others.
• Solid organization, planning, and coordination abilities.
• Creativity in developing new ways to present engineering documentation (drawings, images, text, and combined formats).
• Must have a valid driver’s license with a demonstrated safe driving record.

Why This Co-op Matters

• Real-world engineering experience in a complex manufacturing environment
• Opportunities to contribute meaningfully to Sappi’s operational goals
• Exposure to engineering design, project management, and mill operations
• A chance to build technical skills that translate directly into future engineering roles

Entry Requirements

• Completion of at least two years in an accredited engineering program
• GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Must be eligible to work in the United States without the need for current or future sponsorship - Sappi does not provide visa sponsorship

Salary is determined by a number of factors including the value of the job to the organization, market forces, internal equity and skills brought to the job.

Sappi provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Sappi complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.