Research & Development Intern

Herzog; Saint Joseph (MO); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Herzog Railroad Services, Inc. in St. Joseph, Missouri is seeking a Research & Development Intern to join our team.

You will contribute to projects spanning concept development and testing to product improvement and field validation, with direct mentorship from engineering professionals and exposure to rail technology. The internship offers meaningful work and collaboration within Herzog’s Research & Development team, focused on safety, reliability, and efficiency of railroad operations.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related field.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication, ability to work in a team.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications; CAD, programming, or technical software is a plus.
• Self-motivated, curious, and eager to learn in a fast-paced Research & Development environment.

Responsibilities

• Support Research & Development projects through design, testing, analysis, and documentation activities.
• Assist with prototype development, product evaluations, and field testing of new technologies and equipment.
• Collaborate with engineers, technicians, and project teams to identify improvements and solve technical challenges.
• Collect, analyze, and present data to support project decisions and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Participate in innovation efforts focused on improving the safety, reliability, and efficiency of railroad operations.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Communication

CAD experience

MS Office

Education

Mechanical Engineering (current student)

Tools

CAD software

Programming

Technical software

Job description

Overview

Herzog Railroad Services, Inc. is currently seeking a Research & Development Intern in St. Joseph, MO to join our team.

We are seeking a motivated and curious student who is eager to apply classroom knowledge in a hands‑on environment. As a member of Herzog's Research & Development team, you will contribute to projects ranging from concept development and testing to product improvement and field validation. Interns can expect meaningful work, direct mentorship from engineering professionals, and exposure to cutting‑edge rail industry technologies.

*This is a non-exhaustive overview of the job duties for this position.

• Support Research & Development projects through design, testing, analysis, and documentation activities.
• Assist with prototype development, product evaluations, and field testing of new technologies and equipment.
• Collaborate with engineers, technicians, and project teams to identify improvements and solve technical challenges.
• Collect, analyze, and present data to support project decisions and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Participate in innovation efforts focused on improving the safety, reliability, and efficiency of railroad operations.
• Regular and consistent engagement, participation and promotion of Herzog’s Culture and its essential behaviors are a requirement for this position.
• Regular and predictable attendance and punctuality are a requirement for this position.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field required.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and critical‑thinking skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills with the ability to work in a team environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications; experience with CAD, programming, or technical software is a plus.
• Self‑motivated, curious, and eager to learn in a fast‑paced Research & Development environment.

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Subject to pre-employment background check and motor vehicle report review.
• Subject to pre-employment physical, medical evaluation, and drug screen.
• Successfully complete and maintain any required safety certification and testing on an annual basis.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described below must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential job functions of this role. This is a non-exhaustive overview of the physical requirements of this job.

• Work primarily in an office environment.
• Frequently sits for extended periods of time.
• Frequently use a computer keyboard and office related equipment.
• Requires occasional standing, walking, lifting, stooping or bending.
• Must successfully pass color/vision examinations as required by the position.
• Must be able to hear and distinguish auditory signals as required by the position.

Safety

• Herzog is nationally recognized for its excellent corporate safety record which results from all employees at all levels, in all positions adhering to established policies and procedures. Reporting any and all safety violations to your immediate supervisor is a prerequisite for continued employment. Safety diligence by all results in a safe work environment for all.

Why Herzog

Founded in 1969, Herzog is headquartered in St. Joseph, Missouri, with a satellite office in Fort Worth, Texas.

Over the course of our 50+ year history, Herzog has become a national leader in the construction, operations and maintenance of commuter rail, light rail, streetcar, and freight rail projects.

We believe our culture is at the heart of our existence. It is that belief which empowers every member of our professional family to act with purpose and passion as they advance their career throughout their personal pursuit of excellence.

Backed by over five decades of experience, Herzog delivers exceptional customer service and elite results.

Our success is the outcome of our relentless pursuit of excellence, our passion for our customers, safety without compromise, and a deep-rooted belief in the power of team.

We invite you to join us on our journey to excellence as we work to be better today than yesterday and better tomorrow than today.

It is the policy of Herzog Railroad Services, Inc. to provide equal opportunity in employment for all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, age, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, military status, veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by law.