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Product Development Engineer Intern Jobs in Commerce, MI

Leggett & Platt

Systems Engineer Intern

Detroit, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

... products that enhance the driving experience. In This Role: As a Systems Engineer Intern, you'll work alongside experienced engineers to support the development, integration, and validation of ...

Leggett & Platt

Systems Engineer Intern

Detroit, MI

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

... products that enhance the driving experience. In This Role: As a Systems Engineer Intern, you'll work alongside experienced engineers to support the development, integration, and validation of ...

Leggett & Platt

Systems Engineer Intern

Detroit, MI

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

... products that enhance the driving experience. In This Role: As a Systems Engineer Intern, you'll work alongside experienced engineers to support the development, integration, and validation of ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsProduct Development Engineer Intern JobsProduct Development Engineer Intern Jobs in Commerce, MI

Product Development Engineer Intern information

See Commerce, MI salary details

$8

$19

$33

How much do product development engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for product development engineer intern in Commerce, MI is $19.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $21.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a product development engineer intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Product Development Engineer Intern, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving skills, and often enrollment in or completion of a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, prototyping tools, and sometimes basic programming or data analysis platforms is typically expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help you collaborate effectively and learn quickly in a dynamic environment. These skills and qualities are crucial for contributing to innovative product solutions and supporting the development team’s success.

What does a product development engineer intern do?

A Product Development Engineer Intern works alongside engineering teams to help design, prototype, and test new products or improvements to existing products. Their responsibilities may include conducting research, preparing technical documentation, assisting with product testing, and collaborating with cross-functional teams such as design, manufacturing, and marketing. This internship offers hands-on experience in the product development process and helps interns gain valuable skills in engineering, teamwork, and project management.

What is the difference between Product Development Engineer Intern vs Mechanical Engineering Intern?

AspectProduct Development Engineer InternMechanical Engineering Intern
Required CredentialsEnrolled in or recent graduate of engineering or related programEnrolled in or recent graduate of mechanical engineering or related program
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, product testing facilities, cross-functional teamsManufacturing plants, design labs, testing facilities
Industry UsageTechnology, consumer electronics, automotive, aerospaceManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy
Common Search IntentUnderstanding roles in product development, internship opportunitiesExploring mechanical engineering internship options

Product Development Engineer Interns focus on designing, testing, and improving products across various industries, often working closely with cross-functional teams. Mechanical Engineering Interns typically work on mechanical systems, prototypes, and manufacturing processes. While both roles require engineering knowledge and internships are similar in environment, the focus areas differ: product design versus mechanical systems.

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

As a Product Development Engineer Intern, you can expect to work on a variety of hands-on projects that contribute to the design, prototyping, and testing of new products. Typical responsibilities include assisting with CAD modeling, creating and executing test plans, gathering and analyzing data, and supporting cross-functional teams such as manufacturing and quality assurance. Interns often have the opportunity to collaborate closely with experienced engineers, attend team meetings, and present findings, giving them practical exposure to the full product development lifecycle. This diverse experience not only builds technical skills but also enhances problem-solving and communication abilities.
What job categories do people searching Product Development Engineer Intern jobs in Commerce, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Product Development Engineer Intern jobs in Commerce, MI are:
What cities near Commerce, MI are hiring for Product Development Engineer Intern jobs? Cities near Commerce, MI with the most Product Development Engineer Intern job openings:
Product Development Engineer Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Product Development Engineer Intern job openings in Commerce, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,569 per year, or $19 per hour.

Product Development Engineer - Soft Goods

Central Garden & Pet

Bingham Farms, MI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Central Garden & Pet rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Central Garden & Pet

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 75,192 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at Central Garden & Pet

  • 97%

    97% say they get paid breaks

    say they get paid breaks

  • 94%

    94% say it is easy to take sick days

    say it is easy to take sick days

  • 94%

    94% say they don’t worry about hours

    say they don’t worry about hours

Featured by Central Garden & Pet, based on 41 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees

Job description

Description

ABOUT THE COMPANY
Central Home Brands is a division of Central Garden & Pet, focused on designing and manufacturing soft goods (outdoor cushions, pillows, and pet products) for both Retail and eCommerce.
 
ABOUT THE ROLE
We’re building the next generation of outdoor and pet products—and we’re looking for a Product Development Engineer to help bring them to life. You’ll work hands-on with products, collaborate directly with manufacturing, and have real influence on how products are designed and produced at scale.
 
The Product Development Engineer will focus on engineering initiatives at our Fort Wayne, IN manufacturing facility, while working closely with cross-functional partners, including Product Development, Design, Sales, Operations, and Sourcing. The ideal candidate has experience in textile engineering and demonstrates a strong work ethic, flexibility, and attention to detail.  They will leverage their experience in product design, materials, manufacturing processes, and quality systems to ensure products meet performance, cost, and aesthetic requirements.
 
This position reports to the Director of Product Development and may be based in Bingham Farms, MI (Corporate) or Fort Wayne, IN (Manufacturing Plant). Domestic travel between 25% to 50% is required.
 
If you’re excited about building consumer products from concept to production in a collaborative, hands-on environment, we’d love to hear from you!
 
What You’ll Do
  • Engineer products from concept through validation, to enable volume manufacturing. This includes specification development, prototyping, and testing.
  • Lead projects or small teams within product engineering, with opportunities to grow into broader technical or people leadership responsibilities.
  • Leverage prior experience with textiles, soft goods, and sewing techniques to achieve the desired product goals.
  • Develop and maintain 3D product models and technical specifications to support domestic and international prototyping.
  • Identify opportunities for cost reduction, product improvement, and process optimization.
  • Partner cross-functionally with Product Development, Design, Item Setup, and Production teams to ensure engineering accuracy and alignment as products transition from development to production.
  • Manage technical documentation, item specifications, and product data within CAD and PLM systems.
  • Provide leadership input across Technical Services processes, with scope to take ownership of key areas such as engineering drawing specifications, bills of materials, routing set-up, cut layouts, packing guidance, rate evaluations, and standard operating procedures.
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of material technologies, manufacturing processes, and consumer product trends relevant to Technical Services and Product Development and actively share insights that inform team strategy and product decisions.
  • Contribute to additional projects and initiatives as business needs evolve. 
Professional Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in textile engineering, soft goods, or a related field
  • Proven ability to lead teams or projects, with experience transitioning from individual contributor to first-level people leadership.
Required Skills:
  • Proficiency with CAD Software (Auto CAD, Turbo CAD, or similar)
  • Proficiency with 3D Modelling Software (Clo3D or similar)
  • Ability to create and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and BOMs
  • Strong competency in Microsoft Office Programs (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
  • Highly detail-oriented, with the ability to manage accuracy while maintaining a big-picture perspective.
  • Flexibility to support special projects across Product Development Engineering, R&D, and Manufacturing beyond daily responsibilities.
  • Excellent communication skills (written, verbal, and visual) to describe technical details in a relatable way to a variety of audiences.
  • Excellent project management and organizational abilities
  • Strong understanding of materials used in soft goods: fabric, fiber, foam, etc.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience using Product Lifecycle Management software
  • SAP experience
  • Familiarity with ASTM, ISO, or other relevant testing standards
  • Experience working with overseas manufacturing
  • Experience developing products for outdoor, pet, or home goods categories 
  • Experience with Packaging Engineering
  • Experience or prior work with electrical components (i.e. heating elements)

BENEFITS PACKAGE & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS

  • Paid Time Off – Enjoy paid vacation days, holidays, and a floating holiday!
  • Top-Tier Health Coverage – Comprehensive health insurance benefits include medical, dental, vision, accident, disability, dependent life, and other voluntary options.  Our Health Savings Accounts (HSA) are available with a company-funded stipend.
  • Peace of Mind – Employer-paid Life Insurance
  • Secure Your Future – A competitive 401(k) plan with employer match to help you plan ahead.
  • Family First – Paid Parental Leave so you can focus on what matters most.
  • Grow With Us – We support your journey with Education Assistance for college degrees and professional certifications.
  • Career Advancement – Opportunities for career advancement and internal mobility.
  • Never Stop Learning – Unlock access to thousands of free online courses through our Learning & Development platform.
  • Celebrate You – Our Employee Recognition Programs spotlight your achievements and contributions.
  • Support When You Need It – Confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for personal and professional support.
  • Perks Galore – Enjoy discounts on cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more!
Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA) is a leading consumer goods company in the pet and garden industries. Guided by the belief that home is central to life, the Company's purpose is to proudly nurture happy and healthy homes. For over 45 years, its innovative and trusted solutions have helped lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier, and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a diversified portfolio of market-leading brands including Amdro®, Aqueon®, Best Bully Sticks®, Cadet®, C&S®, Farnam®, Ferry-Morse®, Kaytee®, Nylabone®, Pennington®, Sevin® and Zoёcon®. With fiscal 2025 net sales of $3.1 billion, Central has strong manufacturing and logistics capabilities supported by a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture. The Company is headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, and employs over 6,000 people, primarily across North America. Visit www.central.com to learn more.
 
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.
#LI-MJ1

Working at Central Garden & Pet

Perks for frontline workers

From Central Garden & Pet, via Breakroom

  • Safety is a top priority!

  • Paid Vacation

  • Paid Holidays

  • Paid Sick Time

  • Paid Breaks

  • Consistent shift and schedule

  • Comprehensive Health Insurance

  • 401k with Company Match

  • Referral Program with Cash Bonus

  • Education Assistance

  • Paid Parental Leave

About Central Garden & Pet, in their own words

From Central Garden & Pet

Our leading consumer and professional brands provide forward-thinking, high quality products to care for your lawn, garden, pets and community. We are committed to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier and communities grow stronger.

Company values

From Central Garden & Pet

The Central Way | We Do the Right Thing | We Strive to be the Best | We are Entrepreneurial | We Win Together | We Grow Every Day | We are Passionate

Diversity and inclusion statement

From Central Garden & Pet

Central Garden & Pet is committed to building a great place to work that embraces diversity as a key pillar of our culture. This is a journey, and we are committed to listening, learning and doing the work to move forward together.

What Central Garden & Pet employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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