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Plant Engineer Intern Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Safety Intern

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$22/hr

  • Retirement

The Company offers a wide range of critical components and engineered solutions that connect ... Plant manufacturing operations. Responsibilities * Lead and/or contribute to defined projects ...

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Plant Engineer Intern information

What does a plant engineer intern do?

A Plant Engineer Intern supports the engineering team in maintaining and improving the operations of a manufacturing or industrial facility. Their tasks often include assisting with equipment maintenance, process optimization, troubleshooting machinery issues, and working on projects to enhance safety and efficiency. Interns may also collect and analyze data, help implement new technologies, and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations. This internship provides hands-on experience and exposure to the day-to-day challenges faced by plant engineers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plant engineer intern?

To thrive as a Plant Engineer Intern, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, technical coursework in mechanical or electrical engineering, and enrollment in or completion of a relevant degree program. Familiarity with CAD software, maintenance management systems, and basic safety protocols is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help interns navigate complex projects and collaborate with plant teams. These skills are crucial for ensuring operational efficiency, minimizing downtime, and supporting safe, reliable plant operations.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a plant engineer intern expect during their internship?

As a Plant Engineer Intern, you can expect to be involved in a range of hands-on projects that support plant operations, such as assisting with equipment maintenance, conducting process improvement studies, and helping implement safety protocols. Interns often collaborate closely with experienced engineers, production staff, and maintenance teams to troubleshoot issues and optimize manufacturing processes. This role offers valuable exposure to plant systems and machinery, providing a strong foundation for future engineering roles. You’ll also have opportunities to present findings and recommendations, which helps build communication and project management skills.

What is the difference between Plant Engineer Intern vs Mechanical Engineering Intern?

AspectPlant Engineer InternMechanical Engineering Intern
Required CredentialsEnrolled in engineering program, basic knowledge of plant systemsEnrolled in mechanical engineering program, foundational engineering coursework
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilitiesDesign offices, manufacturing plants, labs
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, energy, utilitiesAutomotive, aerospace, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on plant operations and systemsFocuses on mechanical design and analysis

The main difference between a Plant Engineer Intern and a Mechanical Engineering Intern lies in their focus areas. Plant Engineer Interns typically work within manufacturing or utility plants, concentrating on plant operations, systems, and maintenance. Mechanical Engineering Interns often work in design, research, or product development environments, focusing on mechanical systems and components. Both roles require engineering coursework, but their work environments and specific responsibilities differ based on industry needs.

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Plant Engineer Intern jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Plant Engineer Intern job openings:

Internship - Research & Development Engineer

Minnesota Jobs

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$28.85/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

General Mills R&D Engineer Internship

General Mills makes food the world loves. The company is guided by its Accelerate strategy to boldly build its brands, relentlessly innovate, unleash its scale and stand for good. General Mills operates in more than 100 countries and markets more than 100 consumer brands, including Cheerios, Nature Valley, Blue Buffalo, Häagen-Dazs, Old El Paso, Pillsbury, Betty Crocker, Totino's, Annie's, Wanchai Ferry and more. Headquartered in Minneapolis, General Mills generated fiscal 2026 net sales U.S. $18 billion.

The General Mills Research & Development Internship is a great way to kick-off your career. You will build broad experience in technical foundations, functional depth, and professional development. You'll develop and enhance your digital skills, gaining experience in data analysis, project management, and/or collaboration tools. The internship allows candidates to demonstrate leadership, embrace a learning mindset, build a strong network of peers, develop business context, and learn the General Mills and Innovation, Technology & Quality (ITQ) culture.

As an R&D Engineer Intern, you will experience a robust 10-week internship with hopes that you'll roll into our full-time R&D Leadership Development Program upon graduation. During your internship you will:

  • Leveraging engineering principals to design and test new or improved processes for development and commercialization
  • Partner with Engineering and Manufacturing to develop and scale process solutions
  • Create new, improve existing, and eliminate waste from products and processes
  • Use engineering principles to scale-up products from benchtop and pilot plant to full scale production
  • Collaborate with cross-functional internal partners to build and grow our businesses
  • Engage external partners around the world to increase efficiency and to identify new capabilities
  • Interact with consumers and customers to develop meaningful insights and translate them into concepts, prototypes, and commercial offerings
  • Develop technical depth and business acumen
  • Apply or build digital tools to accelerate learning. Solve technical problems leveraging new or existing digital tools.

Internship is 10-weeks in Summer 2027. The hourly rate for this position is $28.85/hour. General Mills strives to provide fair and competitive pay that reflects your skills, experience, and academic background. The pay for this role considers many factors, including, but not limited to, your degree program, major, and year in school. Beyond a competitive hourly rate, as a General Mills intern, you'll gain access to a comprehensive Total Rewards package designed to support your overall development and wellbeing. This includes partially subsidized housing & relocation assistance (if applicable & requirements are met), a summer of learning and fun featuring networking opportunities with company leaders, comprehensive health benefits, wellbeing resources, and other valuable perks.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Pursuing a B.S. in Chemical Engineering, Food Process Engineering, or related degree
  • Graduating in Winter 2027 or Spring 2028
  • Experience or interest in programming, data analysis, and modeling

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Strong academic record
  • Demonstrated ability to achieve results and a commitment to developing technical and business skills
  • Adaptability, curiosity, and inventiveness
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, passion for R&D, enthusiasm, and the ability to conduct themselves professionally
  • Demonstrated leadership experience in academic projects, extracurricular activities, or previous work experiences

General Mills is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital or familial status, status regarding public assistance, or membership or activity in a local human rights commission.