Internship Overview: This internship will provide hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment with a focus on mechanical engineering, safety, and equipment innovation. The intern will work closely with Midstate Springs Innovation and Maintenance Teams, supporting initiatives that improve machine safety, functionality, and overall operational performance. The role will emphasize machine guarding, risk reduction, and practical engineering solutions, while giving the intern exposure to real-world manufacturing challenges and continuous improvement efforts.
Scope of Work / Responsibilities: Support the evaluation and improvement of machine guarding across production equipment, including: Assessing current guarding for effectiveness and compliance Identifying potential safety risks and areas for improvement Assisting in the design and implementation of enhanced guarding solutions Collaborate with the Innovation Team to: Develop practical mechanical solutions to improve safety and usability Assist with small-scale design and modification projects Support prototyping and testing of new ideas Work alongside the Maintenance Team to: Understand machine functionality and limitations Assist in implementing safety-related modifications Observe and support equipment troubleshooting and repairs Participate in safety-focused continuous improvement initiatives, including: Identifying opportunities to reduce risk and improve ergonomics Supporting implementation of standardized safety solutions Assist with documentation and standardization, including: Machine guarding standards and best practices Equipment safety documentation and visual aids Project summaries and improvement records Engage in cross-functional collaboration by participating in team discussions and providing input on safety and innovation-related initiatives Learning Objectives: Gain hands-on experience applying mechanical engineering principles in a manufacturing environment Develop an understanding of machine guarding design, safety standards, and risk mitigation Learn how to translate safety requirements into practical, real-world engineering solutions Build skills in problem-solving, prototyping, and design improvement Strengthen technical communication through documentation and collaboration with cross-functional teams Gain exposure to continuous improvement practices within an industrial setting Expected Outcomes: By the end of the internship, the student will have contributed to meaningful improvements in machine safety and guarding, developed a stronger understanding of applied mechanical engineering in manufacturing, and gained experience working on practical innovation projects that support both safety and operational performance. The intern will leave with a deeper appreciation for how engineering, safety, and continuous improvement intersect to create a more efficient and controlled manufacturing environment.