Prototyping Intern Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Description

Are you an engineering student who enjoys solving problems, working with your hands, and seeing your ideas come to life? At Depatie Fluid Power, we are looking for a motivated Manufacturing Engineering Intern to join our team and gain hands-on experience supporting manufacturing operations, continuous improvement initiatives, and new product development.

This part time opportunity works directly alongside experienced engineers while contributing to projects that improve efficiency, quality, and productivity. We can teach product knowledge. What we cannot teach is curiosity, initiative, a strong work ethic, and the desire to continuously learn and improve. We understand that academics come first and offer flexibility during the school year to help balance coursework and professional development.

If you are someone who enjoys figuring out how things work, embraces technology, and wants to make a meaningful impact in a manufacturing environment, we want to hear from you.

Requirements

What You Will Do

As a Manufacturing Engineering Intern, you will work alongside our Engineering team to support manufacturing processes, equipment development, and continuous improvement initiatives. Your responsibilities will include:

• Supporting manufacturing operations through engineering analysis and problem-solving
• Leading continuous improvement projects from concept through implementation with mentorship from senior engineers
• Developing mechanical designs through analysis, troubleshooting, testing, and design reviews
• Assisting with automated and manual fixture development, documentation, calibration, maintenance, and process improvements
• Participating in pilot production builds and equipment validation activities
• Creating and executing equipment validation plans utilizing APQP methodologies
• Analyzing production and prototype data using statistical techniques to evaluate process performance and quality improvements
• Creating and updating engineering drawings using 2D and 3D CAD software (SolidWorks)
• Collaborating with Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, and Engineering teams to improve manufacturing processes and facility layouts using Lean Manufacturing principles
• Developing engineering documentation including:
  • Work Instructions
  • Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA)
  • Control Plans
  • Process documentation and standard work
• Assisting with new product development activities, prototype builds, and Design for Manufacturing Assessments (DFMA)

What you will accomplish

• Gain real-world engineering experience in a manufacturing environment
• Develop practical problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
• Learn how engineering projects move from concept to implementation
• Contribute directly to manufacturing efficiency, quality improvements, and operational success
• Build experience with Lean Manufacturing, APQP, CAD design, data analysis, and process improvement methodologies
• Work alongside experienced engineers while developing technical and professional skills that will accelerate your engineering career

you will achieve success by

• Demonstrating initiative and a willingness to learn
• Taking ownership of projects and following them through completion
• Adapting to new technologies, systems, and manufacturing processes
• Communicating effectively with team members across multiple departments
• Bringing a positive attitude and a hands-on approach to problem-solving
• Continuously seeking opportunities to improve processes and drive results

What we are looking for 

• Currently enrolled in an Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or related degree program
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Interest in hands-on manufacturing and engineering environments
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications

• Experience with SolidWorks or other CAD software
• Exposure to Lean Manufacturing principles
• Understanding of manufacturing processes and equipment
• Experience with data analysis or statistical problem-solving techniques
• Previous manufacturing, technical, robotics, machining, or engineering project experience