Engineering Co-Op Student

About the Role

Primarily responsible for providing engineering and design support to RealTruck corporate engineering for pick-up truck Bed Covers (a.k.a. Tonneau Covers) and related truck accessory components. Projects include CAD drawing and design, 3D printing, finite element analysis (FEA), prototype fabrication and assembly, testing and analysis, presentations, and manufacturing/tooling support for both aftermarket and OEM product lines. The rotation of assignments during the engineering degree will culminate in a mutually agreed thesis topic prior to full-time employment.

Responsibilities

• Apply engineering principles to create innovative designs, concepts, and complete product engineering.
• Provide drawing and design support using SolidWorks (training provided as necessary).
• Coordinate design-related workload with designated Design Engineer, including finite element modeling and analysis.
• Utilize RealTruck drawing release and engineering change processes.
• Fabricate prototypes using onsite equipment (3D printers, CNC Mill, CNC Plasma Table, welders, etc.).
• Participate in testing using in-house equipment and external test partners, including product fit-up sessions.
• Identify, analyze, and implement continuous product design improvements to reduce warranty and improve manufacturing efficiency, safety, quality, and cost (VA/VE).
• Make a brief presentation to the Engineering team at the end of each work term highlighting duties and accomplishments.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Actively pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Kettering University.
• Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Ability to use SolidWorks for design and analysis (training provided as needed).
• Must be a U.S. Citizen or have a U.S. Permanent Resident (Green) Card.

Skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Strong interpersonal skills; collaborates as a cross-functional team player.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal, written, and presentation).
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking with a focus on root cause analysis.
• Capable of multitasking with attention to detail.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and able to set priorities.
• Design competency: generates creative solutions, translates concepts into images, applies design principles, and demonstrates attention to detail.
• Professionalism: approaches others tactfully, reacts well under pressure, treats others with respect, and follows through on commitments.
• Teamwork: balances team and individual responsibilities, contributes to a positive team spirit, and supports others' efforts.

Physical Requirements

This position is subject to Medium Work: exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds constantly to move objects.

• Physical activities include climbing, kneeling, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, talking, and hearing.
• Requires close visual acuity for preparing and analyzing data, transcribing, viewing a computer terminal, reading, visual inspection, and using measurement devices.

Working Conditions

The position is located within a technical office environment with proper HVAC and a private desk/cubicle. Includes access to shop facilities (both environmentally controlled and non-controlled) such as a machine shop and vehicle/mock-up areas, separate from production facilities.

Travel is generally not anticipated but may be required within the continental United States. All travel expenses will be covered by the company per travel policy.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Company-paid life insurance and disability.
• 401(k) with company match (eligible the first of the month after start date).
• Wellbeing days and parental leave.
• Educational reimbursement.
• Referral bonuses.
• Exclusive employee discounts on RealTruck products.