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Quality Engineer Intern

Riverbend Energetics
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  ABOUT RIVERBEND ENERGETICS

 

Riverbend Energetics is an ATF-regulated defense manufacturer specializing in the design and production of energetic devices, including detonators and initiators, in support of the U.S. warfighter. Located in Alton, Illinois within the St. Louis metro area, Riverbend operates with an unwavering commitment to precision, safety, and mission readiness. Our core values — Safety, Honor the Mission of the War Fighter, Accountability, Respect, and Personal Growth — guide everything we do.

 

  POSITION SUMMARY

 

The Quality Engineer Intern will work alongside Riverbend's Quality Assurance team to support product quality, process validation, and regulatory compliance activities in a highly regulated manufacturing environment. This is a hands-on, project-based internship designed to give the selected candidate meaningful exposure to quality systems, production floor operations, and defense industry standards. The intern will contribute to real work that directly impacts product integrity and mission-critical outcomes.

 

  KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

 

  • Support inspection, testing, and verification activities for energetic device components and finished goods in accordance with applicable specifications and work instructions.
  • Assist with root cause analysis and corrective/preventive action (CAPA) investigations using structured problem-solving methodologies (e.g., 5-Why, Fishbone/Ishikawa).
  • Participate in process audits and assist in documenting findings, nonconformances, and disposition recommendations.
  • Support the review and maintenance of quality documentation, including inspection records, test reports, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Collect, analyze, and present quality metrics and trend data to support continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Assist with First Article Inspection (FAI) activities, including dimensional verification and documentation review.
  • Collaborate with Production, Engineering, and Supply Chain teams to identify and resolve quality escapes and in-process defects.
  • Support calibration program activities, including instrument tracking and coordination with the metrology function.
  • Participate in lean/process improvement projects aimed at reducing defect rates and improving manufacturing yields.
  • Maintain compliance with all facility safety protocols, ATF regulations, and site access requirements.

 

  REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

 

  • Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
  • Completion of sophomore year or higher preferred; rising juniors and seniors strongly encouraged to apply.
  • U.S. Citizenship required (federal regulatory requirement for access to ATF-licensed facilities and explosive materials).
  • Demonstrated understanding of engineering fundamentals, including materials, tolerances, and measurement systems.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint); experience with data analysis and charting strongly preferred.
  • Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work in a manufacturing environment, including standing for extended periods and wearing required PPE.

 

  PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

 

  • Coursework or exposure to quality management systems (ISO 9001, AS9100, or equivalent).
  • Familiarity with Statistical Process Control (SPC), Measurement System Analysis (MSA), or GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing).
  • Prior internship, co-op, or lab experience in a manufacturing, defense, aerospace, or regulated industry environment.
  • Exposure to CAPA, FMEA, or other structured quality tools through coursework or prior experience.
  • Experience with CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar) is a plus.

 

  WHAT YOU’LL GAIN

 

  • Direct exposure to quality engineering in one of the most technically demanding and mission-critical manufacturing sectors in defense.
  • Mentorship from experienced Quality and Engineering professionals committed to intern development.
  • Hands-on experience with real production processes, real nonconformances, and real problem-solving — not simulated projects.
  • Understanding of ATF regulatory requirements and what it means to operate in a federally licensed explosive materials facility.
  • Networking opportunities across a growing, multi-disciplinary team in the St. Louis metro defense manufacturing corridor.

 

  WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

 

Work is performed in both office and active manufacturing environments. The intern must be able to:

  • Stand, walk, and move throughout production areas for extended periods.
  • Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, and appropriate footwear.
  • Lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.
  • Work in proximity to energetic materials in accordance with all safety protocols and regulatory requirements.

 

  EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

 

Riverbend Energetics is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.