Electrical Engineering Co-Op

About the role

Sonoco is a $5 billion global provider of consumer packaging, industrial products, and packaging supply chain services with over 23,000 associates operating in 300+ operations across 36 countries. The Machinery Manufacturing division in Hartsville, SC designs and builds proprietary equipment used in Sonoco plants worldwide to produce packaging for brands such as Pringles, Doritos, Cheetos, Pillsbury biscuits, and Enfamil baby formula. The division includes a full-service fabrication shop, machine shop, and a world-class assembly center with a recent $12 million building expansion.

The Controls and Automation team designs and builds the controls and automation solutions that operate these machines. As an Electrical Engineering Co-Op, you will be part of this growing team and gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art technology including robotic cells, custom automation cells, and custom vision applications. Co-Op students participate in three rotating sessions and are involved in every project phase from concept through installation and startup.

Responsibilities

• Design electrical control systems using EPlan
• Program Allen Bradley PLCs using Studio 5000
• Research and develop new concepts and manufacturing techniques
• Develop strong professional relationships with operational and technical team members through teamwork and collaboration
• Develop project management and time management skills
• Apply critical thinking, collaborative brainstorming, and problem-solving
• Gain hands-on experience in a working manufacturing plant
• Learn LEAN Manufacturing principles
• Identify and lead Continuous Improvement projects
• Build and demonstrate communication skills to different levels of management
• Further career goals and explore different career paths within Manufacturing Operations
• Gain leadership immersion in IEC, ISO, and ANSI standards related to Functional Machine Safety

Requirements

• Enrolled in an accredited four-year engineering program studying Electrical Engineering (Controls and Automation focus preferred)
• Good academic standing; must maintain the university's minimum GPA requirement to remain in the Co-Op program
• Work ethic and attitude aligned with Sonoco's 4 Key Culture Elements: Attendance, Safety, Quality, and Teamwork/Collaboration
• Curiosity and drive for learning new tools for critical thinking and problem solving
• Proficiency with MS Office programs and other products for creating documentation, spreadsheets, and presentations
• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• Up-to-date resume (letters of recommendation appreciated but not required)
• Ability to pass drug screen and background check per Sonoco HR requirements
• Safe and reliable transportation

Compensation

Monthly base salary varies by degree type and academic level:

• Undergraduate Engineering/Technical: Senior $4,800, Junior $4,600, Sophomore $4,300, Freshman $4,100
• Undergraduate Business/Non-Technical: Senior $4,350, Junior $4,100, Sophomore $3,900, Freshman $3,700
• Graduate Engineering/Technical: Senior $5,700
• Graduate Business/Non-Technical: Senior $5,100

Benefits

Benefits listed are for employees located in the U.S.; specific programs may vary by location or union status.

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Wellbeing tools and resources to support holistic health, including an Employee Assistance Program
• Paid time off and holidays
• Variety of company-paid and voluntary employee-paid insurance plans including life, personal accident, and disability insurance
• Tuition reimbursement