Research & Development Engineering Intern, Summer 2026

Dee Zee, Inc.; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Dee Zee, Inc. seeks a motivated R&D Engineering Intern to support design, prototyping, and testing of innovative truck and SUV accessories. You will gain hands-on CAD experience and participate in the full product development cycle, gaining real-world engineering exposure.

The internship offers collaboration with engineers, documentation of designs, and opportunities to contribute to durability improvements in a manufacturing environment with varying conditions.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Industrial Technology, or a related field.
• Experience with CAD modeling software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar).
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.
• Interest in product development, automotive accessories, or manufacturing engineering.
• Attention to detail and willingness to learn from hands-on project work.
• Willingness and ability to work in a manufacturing environment exposed to elements including coolant, dust, mist, elevated noise, and variable temperatures.

Responsibilities

• Assist in CAD modeling and design of new products, components, and assemblies.
• Support prototyping efforts, including design reviews, fabrication, and testing.
• Collaborate with engineers on manufacturability analysis and continuous improvement opportunities.
• Participate in the full product development cycle, from concept to implementation.
• Document designs, revisions, and testing results to support product development records.
• Contribute ideas and solutions to improve functionality, durability, and customer experience.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Willingness to learn

Education

Pursuing Mechanical/Industrial Engineering or related

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Job description

Dee Zee, Inc. is seeking a motivated Research & Development (R&D) Engineering Intern to support the design, prototyping, and testing of innovative truck and SUV accessories. This internship offers hands-on experience with CAD modeling, manufacturability considerations, and real-world product development, providing valuable preparation for a career in engineering and product design.

Accountabilities

• Assist in CAD modeling and design of new products, components, and assemblies.
• Support prototyping efforts, including design reviews, fabrication, and testing.
• Collaborate with engineers on manufacturability analysis and continuous improvement opportunities.
• Participate in the full product development cycle, from concept to implementation.
• Document designs, revisions, and testing results to support product development records.
• Contribute ideas and solutions to improve functionality, durability, and customer experience.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Industrial Technology, or a related field.
• Experience with CAD modeling software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar).
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.
• Interest in product development, automotive accessories, or manufacturing engineering.
• Attention to detail and willingness to learn from hands-on project work.
• Willingness and ability to work in a manufacturing environment exposed to elements including coolant, dust, mist, elevated noise, and variable temperatures.