Mining Engineer Co-op May 2027 - Multiple Locations
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About the role
Our Mining Engineering Co-ops work in either Lansing, NY or Cleveland, OH underground salt mine locations as part of our Cargill Specialized Portfolio. There, you will learn to lead production or maintenance employees, project teams, contractors, or technical operations teams executing on critical initiatives and projects in a fast-paced, underground environment. The intent of the Engineer Co-op role is to allow individuals to be exposed to the technical and management aspects of engineering while beginning to develop an interest for longer-term career aspirations.
Your work will contribute to keeping our communities safe. This role provides exposure to people management and technical components of the mining industry, preparing you for potential full-time career paths such as:
- Mining Engineers – Work both underground with engineers and crews on active projects and on surface supporting infrastructure. Learn mining techniques such as surveying and mapping, room and pillar mining operations, mineral processing, water management, materials handling, and mining safety best practices. Collaborate on engineering projects and champion initiatives to leave a mark on our facilities.
- Electrical Engineers – Gain exposure to high voltage power infrastructure and control systems in a mining environment. Learn to safely operate and automate equipment, maintain electrical reliability, and implement best practices in maintenance and design for systems including electric-powered mining equipment, hoisting systems, pumps, conveyor belts, and screening equipment.
- Production Management Engineers – Lead people, processes, and production in a mining environment. Supervise operators and production activities, participate in daily management meetings, and handle MSHA federal regulations and compliance programs (environmental, health, safety, maintenance, and housekeeping). Develop teams, optimize processes, manage capital projects, and drive equipment reliability.
- Process/Project Engineering – Develop business cases, manage budgets, and oversee vendor selection and project execution for initiatives involving process optimization, safety, quality, infrastructure, and energy use. Engage in innovation processes, reliability-centered design, and global technical initiatives.
Responsibilities
- Gain hands-on experience in Operations Leadership and/or Maintenance & Reliability Engineering.
- Work on engineering projects, including designing and upgrading systems, reviewing and updating plant drawings.
- Lead or support production or maintenance teams, contractors, or technical operations teams in a fast-paced underground environment.
- Participate in daily production management meetings and ensure compliance with MSHA regulations.
- Engage in process optimization, equipment reliability, and capital project execution.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams and contribute to technical initiatives.
Qualifications
- Currently pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Mining Engineering (MinE), Mechanical Engineering (ME), Electrical Engineering (EE), Industrial Engineering (IE), or other related engineering discipline.
- Degree to be/recently completed between December 2027 – May 2030.
- Right to work in the U.S. that is not based solely on possession of a student visa or a visa sponsored by a third-party employer.
- Able to complete a 7–8-month co-op (May - December 2027).
- Geographically flexible and willing to relocate to either Cleveland, OH or Lansing, NY for the co-op.
- Must be able to work in an underground environment.
- Proven ability to work optimally with individuals from a diverse set of backgrounds and cultures.
- Must possess a high degree of initiative and resourcefulness in completing work with limited guidance.
Preferred Qualifications
- Sophomores, juniors, or seniors currently enrolled in an accredited engineering program in a relevant field.
- Mining or heavy industrial co-op or intern experience.
- Overall 2.7 GPA preferred.
- Ability to relate technical knowledge to job-related duties.
- Demonstrated ability to solve problems and make decisions independently.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Leadership experience.
Schedule
Co-ops are typically 7-8 months in duration (May - December 2027). Co-ops are paid hourly for time worked and are responsible for their own transportation to and from work.
Work Environment
- Underground, team-oriented, fast-paced, and hands-on environment.
- Focus on employee engagement, inclusion, and innovation.
- Physical activity requiring moderate exertion, including bending, stooping, squatting, twisting, reaching, working on irregular surfaces, occasional lifting of objects over 50 pounds, and frequent lifting of 10-25 pounds.
- Exposure to conditions such as heat, cold, and salt dust.
Benefits
- Paid time off.
- Mental Health and Wellbeing program.
- Housing and Relocation Assistance for those that qualify.
- Minnesota-based employees: Minnesota Sick and Safe Leave accruals of one hour for every 30 worked, up to 48 hours per calendar year unless otherwise provided by law.
- Access to volunteer and community outreach opportunities, including paid time off for volunteer activities.
- Participation in events providing exposure to leadership, development opportunities, and networking with cross-functional interns/co-ops/associates.
- Comprehensive learning resources and curated development courses.
- Networking opportunities, mentorship, and consistent support from the early careers team, colleagues, and supervisors.
- Business Resource Groups (BRGs) to embrace diversity and enhance inclusion.
Pay
The expected hourly rate for this position is $25.70 - $35.50 per hour. Compensation decisions are dependent on graduation date and eligibility for full-time employment.
Locations
Lansing, NY or Cleveland, OH.