Automation Engineer Intern Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

Process Engineer | Ripon, WI

We are seeking a motivated and hardworking individual to join our team in Ripon, WI as a Process Engineer. You will be part of a group of engineers dedicated to high-quality work, value-add solutions, skill development, and career growth. We  welcome candidates from the Ripon, Appleton, OshKosh area and beyond to apply.  

Employees working in Ripon, WI have a short commute from Northfield, Owatonna, and Waseca and will enjoy professional growth and community engagement through our regional presence in Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota and South Dakota.

As a Process Engineer, you will:

• Improve machining and assembly processes to strengthen safety, quality, throughput, and overall cost performance
• Identify production bottlenecks and implement targeted solutions, including workflow adjustments, workstation redesigns, and strategic process transfers
• Design ergonomic workstations and support equipment upgrades such as lift assists, light automation, assembly tooling, and process relocations
• Partner daily with Operations, Supervisors, and hourly Team Leads to support production priorities and resolve process challenges
• Review equipment proposals, coordinate installations, and verify that new machinery meets operational and performance requirements
• Perform capability studies, time studies, and continuous improvement activities to refine and optimize manufacturing processes
• Create and maintain visual work instructions, standardized operating procedures, and clear process documentation
• Troubleshoot production issues, assist maintenance teams, and help ensure equipment operates at like‑new performance levels
• Lead cost‑reduction efforts focused on scrap, rework, cycle time, tooling improvements, and fixture enhancements
• Participate in Kaizen events and promote Lean Manufacturing principles across machining and assembly operations
• Collaborate with suppliers and Applied partners across the Fox Valley, Wisconsin, to strengthen manufacturing performance
• Support projects that impact communities in Ripon, Fond du Lac, Oshkosh, Neenah, Menasha, Appleton, Berlin, Green Lake, Princeton, Waupun, Rosendale, North Fond du Lac, Winneconne, Omro, Markesan, and Brandon
• Contribute to a dynamic environment that values ownership, innovation, and hands‑on problem solving
• Work collaboratively with suppliers and Applied partners
• Contribute to projects that impact communities in Northfield, Owatonna, and Waseca and the greater Ripon, Appleton, OshKosh area
• Apply your skills in a dynamic environment that values ownership and innovation

• Bachelor of Science degree required in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Industrial Engineering
• Minimum 2 years of experience in a Process Engineer role
• Strong background in machining processes, assembly operations, and hands‑on production support
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with operators, assemblers, supervisors, and cross‑functional teams
• Experience designing ergonomic workstations and improving production flow
• Skilled in identifying bottlenecks and implementing practical, people‑centered solutions
• Direct assembly or machine‑shop press assembly experience highly preferred
• Lean Manufacturing experience required; Kaizen participation strongly valued
• Proficiency with AutoCAD, CREO, Fusion 360, and 3D printing technologies
• Strong communication and leadership skills with a history of positive operator engagement
• Must have experience in manual or semi‑manual production environments rather than fully automated facilities
• Capable of working independently and as a team member
• Strong work ethic and unwavering integrity
• Excellent interpersonal skills and a learning mindset
• Curiosity, problem solving, and analytical thinking
• Effective verbal and written communication
• Desire to work on a variety of projects

Engineer I: $74,000 - $86,000

Engineer II: $82,000 - $94,000

Engineer III: $90,000 - $103,000

Senior Engineer: $97,000 - $112,000

Final compensation is based on experience, skills, and alignment with role expectations. Paid overtime may be available

Applied Engineering is a 100% employee-owned engineering consulting company dedicated to providing exceptional talent and service to manufacturers across the Midwest and beyond. We have won numerous awards, including Best Place to Work and Top Place to Intern.

Innovation, problem solving, integrity, and collaboration are a few things you'll experience and represent while working with Applied. If you appreciate a challenge, variety, and a quicker pace, then we would like to get to know you better.

Our unique company culture blends talent, technology, and flexibility. We offer a career trajectory few others can match, with opportunities to take on roles and assignments aligned with your skills and interests.

In addition, we offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package including:

• Competitive salary
• 401K retirement plan
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Continuing Education Support
• Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance options
• Paid overtime
• Flexible work schedule

Please consider joining Applied's team of talented employees in Ripon, WI and the greater Ripon, Appleton, OshKosh area.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. We regret that we do not offer sponsorship.

Applied Engineering is committed to a diverse workforce and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job ID 20261041

Award Winning - Employee Owned - Comprehensive Benefits

Relocation Assistance – Ownership Opportunity – Continuing Education Support