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Summer Automotive Programming Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Summer Automotive Programming information

What types of projects or technologies will I typically work with in a summer automotive programming role?

In a Summer Automotive Programming role, you can expect to work on projects involving embedded systems, vehicle diagnostics, or software development for infotainment and driver-assistance features. Common technologies include C/C++, Python, and automotive-specific frameworks like CAN bus communication or AUTOSAR. You'll likely collaborate with engineers, testers, and sometimes hardware teams to integrate and validate software in real vehicle systems. It's a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools while contributing to meaningful automotive innovations.

What is summer automotive programming?

Summer automotive programming typically refers to educational or internship programs offered during the summer months where students or recent graduates gain hands-on experience in automotive software development. These programs often involve working on real-world automotive projects, such as developing code for vehicle systems, infotainment, diagnostics, or autonomous features. Participants learn programming languages relevant to the automotive industry, collaborate with engineering teams, and gain insight into the automotive software development lifecycle. These opportunities help build skills and provide valuable industry exposure for those interested in automotive technology careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a summer automotive programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Summer Automotive Programmer, you need a foundation in computer science, proficiency in programming languages such as C/C++ or Python, and an understanding of automotive systems. Familiarity with automotive-specific software tools like MATLAB/Simulink, CAN bus analysis tools, and version control systems (e.g., Git) is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this position. These skills and qualities are vital for developing reliable vehicle software, ensuring safety, and collaborating efficiently within engineering teams.

What is the difference between Summer Automotive Programming vs Summer Automotive Technician?

AspectSummer Automotive ProgrammingSummer Automotive Technician
Required CredentialsBasic knowledge of automotive software, possibly some certifications in programming or ITASE certifications, technical diplomas, hands-on automotive repair training
Work EnvironmentOffice or lab setting, focused on coding and software testingGarage or workshop, performing repairs and diagnostics on vehicles
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive software companies, dealerships, tech firmsAuto repair shops, dealerships, service centers

Summer Automotive Programming involves developing and testing automotive software, requiring programming skills and software knowledge. In contrast, Summer Automotive Technicians focus on repairing and maintaining vehicles through hands-on work. Both roles are essential in the automotive industry but differ significantly in skills, environment, and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Programming jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Automotive Programming jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Summer Automotive Programming jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Summer Automotive Programming job openings:

Maintenance Mechanic Montgomery MN

Cross Resource Group

Montgomery, MN • On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Maintenance Mechanic

Location: Montgomery, MN

Facility Type: Seasonal food manufacturing and processing

Employment Type: Full-time, hourly

Openings: 3

Union Status: Non-union

Role Overview

This is a mechanic-only maintenance role supporting a high-volume, seasonal food manufacturing facility. Maintenance mechanics are responsible for keeping production equipment running during an intense summer pack season and performing rebuilds, repairs, and improvements during the off-pack months.

This role is not open to automotive, residential, or construction mechanics. Candidates must come from a pure manufacturing or industrial environment, or be new engineering graduates with strong mechanical fundamentals, integrity, and a willingness to learn.

Pack season is demanding and non-negotiable. Candidates must be comfortable with rotating shifts, night work, extended hours, and production-driven priorities.

Schedule & Shift Structure

Off-Pack Season (Approx. October through May)

  • Monday through Friday
  • Day shift: 6:00am to 4:30pm
  • Primary focus:
  • Preventive maintenance
  • Equipment overhauls
  • Repairs and improvements
  • Plant and equipment readiness for pack season

Pack Season (Approx. June through early October)

  • 12-hour rotating shifts required
  • 6:00am to 6:00pm
  • 6:00pm to 6:00am
  • Weekend work required as production dictates

Maintenance rotation pattern during pack:

  • 7 days on / 2 days off
  • 7 days on / 2 days off
  • 7 days on / 3 days off (typically Fri–Sun)

Days off during pack often fall on weekdays.

Candidates must be 100% comfortable working nights for roughly half the summer.

Pay

  • $28.00 to $32.00/hr, based on skills, experience, and manufacturing background
  • Strong manufacturing mechanics may be considered above range
  • Paid hourly
  • Overtime available during pack season

Core Maintenance Expectations

  • Support production equipment in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
  • Diagnose and repair mechanical failures under production pressure
  • Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on processing and packaging equipment
  • Tear down, rebuild, align, and adjust machinery
  • Support equipment changeovers and seasonal startups
  • Maintain clean, safe, and organized work areas
  • Accurately document maintenance work and PMs
  • Work collaboratively with production and maintenance teams

Candidate Profile We Are Targeting

Backgrounds Considered

  • Manufacturing maintenance mechanics
  • Industrial processing environments
  • Candidates comfortable owning problems and working independently

Backgrounds Not Considered

  • Automotive mechanics
  • Residential or commercial construction trades
  • Field service roles unrelated to manufacturing

Required Qualifications

  • Hands-on mechanical maintenance experience in a manufacturing environment
  • Strong troubleshooting and repair skills
  • Experience using hand and power tools
  • Ability to read and interpret manuals, diagrams, and prints
  • High integrity, honesty, and work ethic
  • Willingness to learn and be coached
  • Comfortable working nights, weekends, and extended hours during pack season
  • High school diploma or GED

Preferred Qualifications

  • Welding and fabrication experience
  • Experience supporting seasonal or harvest-driven production
  • New engineering graduates with strong mechanical fundamentals and the right attitude

Work Environment

  • Manufacturing plant environment
  • Exposure to:
  • Moving machinery
  • Wet floors
  • Production noise
  • Temperature changes by season
  • PPE required, including hearing and eye protection

Why This Role

  • Long-term, stable maintenance position
  • Strong off-season schedule with predictable hours
  • High earning potential during pack season
  • Team-oriented maintenance culture
  • Opportunity to build deep manufacturing experience in a complex operation

Benefits Overview

  • Medical insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Short-term and long-term disability
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Paid time off
  • Additional voluntary benefits

Why This Opportunity

This is a long-term opportunity for mechanics who want steady off-season hours, competitive pay, strong benefits, and challenging hands-on work during peak production months. Mechanics who succeed through pack season are highly valued and given opportunities to grow their skills and responsibilities within the maintenance team.



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