Manufacturing Engineering Intern

Job Title: Manufacturing Engineering Intern

Summary

The Manufacturing Engineering Internship provides a unique opportunity to gain hands-on, real-world experience in a high-paced food manufacturing environment. Interns will work directly with filler and packaging machinery, supporting projects that drive equipment optimization, improve line efficiency, and enhance overall plant performance. This role offers exposure to mechanical design, troubleshooting, data-driven decision making, and process improvement methodologies. It is designed for engineering students who want to apply classroom knowledge to real challenges, build technical expertise, and prepare for a career in manufacturing or process engineering.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support improvement projects focused on filler and packaging machinery performance, reliability, and efficiency
• Conduct root cause analysis to identify recurring issues and implement permanent corrective actions
• Apply strong troubleshooting skills to resolve mechanical and process-related problems quickly and effectively
• Perform mechanical design and modification work to enhance equipment function; utilize CAD software and 3D printing for prototyping and validation
• Collect, analyze, and interpret production data to guide improvement efforts and establish priorities
• Learn how to operate production equipment alongside operators to understand daily workflows, challenges, and ergonomic considerations
• Participate in preventive maintenance tasks with maintenance technicians to gain insight into equipment functionality, common failure modes, and design improvement opportunities
• Assist in the development and execution of process optimization initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement tools
• Perform time studies to evaluate equipment cycle times, labor utilization, and line balancing opportunities
• Partner with cross-functional teams (maintenance, operations, quality) to implement engineering solutions on the plant floor
• Document engineering changes, performance trials, and project outcomes in a clear, technical format
• Support the evaluation, installation, and integration of new equipment and technology into existing systems
• Other engineering duties as assigned in alignment with project needs

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related engineering discipline
• Strong interest in manufacturing systems, process improvement, and mechanical equipment design
• Experience with CAD software (Inventor, AutoCAD, or similar); exposure to 3D printing preferred
• Demonstrated ability to apply analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills to real-world challenges
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement principles is a plus
• Comfortable working both independently and in a collaborative, team-oriented environment
• Ability to thrive in a plant environment with exposure to loud, hot, cold, and/or wet conditions
• Physically able to sit, stand, walk, and climb stairs for extended periods during shifts