GVSU Mechanical Engineering Intern Co-op

Location: Walker, Michigan, United States Department: Mechanical Design

Mechanical Engineering Intern

• Position Description -

Position Overview: As a Mechanical Engineering Intern you’ll step into the world of automation innovation by supporting our skilled engineering team, including Project Managers, Controls Engineers, and Mechanical Design Engineers. You’ll contribute to the design, development, and testing of cutting-edge automation systems. This internship offers a hands-on introduction to CAD modeling, robotic systems, and manufacturing processes, providing a dynamic platform to apply your academic knowledge, develop technical skills, and launch your engineering career under expert mentorship.

Rotational Development Path

Rotation 1 – Foundations: Gain familiarity with SolidWorks, mechanical drawings, Axis standards, common purchased components, project release procedures, and documentation. Contribute to projects by creating basic drawings, completing documentation packages, and executing simple design tasks.

Rotation 2 – Expansion: Execute more complex design tasks including detailing and revisions to existing tooling. Be able to create purchase requisitions and complete design release procedures in full. Assist in creating drawing packages for projects. Work with other departments to provide machine layouts, simulation files, controls component lists, and certification files.

Rotation 3 – Application: Be able to complete drawing packages for full project scopes. Gain further understanding of principles of designing for machining, assembly, and maintenance. Support customer projects through revisions, simple assembly design, and completion of more complex drawing packages. Demonstrate increased design independence and meet assigned deadlines, while continuing to maintain design quality.

Key Responsibilities

Assist in creating 3D models and 2D technical drawings for automation components (e.g., fixtures, conveyors) using CAD software (SolidWorks preferred).

Support the design of basic mechanical parts, such as brackets or mounts, under the guidance of senior engineers.

Participate in prototype assembly, testing, and troubleshooting, gaining practical experience with robotic and automated systems.

Help maintain engineering documentation, including Bills of Materials (BOMs) and design records, ensuring accuracy and organization.

Conduct introductory tolerance analyses or component measurements to support design validation.

Research industry standards (e.g., OSHA, ANSI) and material properties to assist project teams.

Collaborate with engineers to brainstorm solutions and document findings for ongoing projects.

Qualifications

Education: Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program in Mechanical Engineering or a related field (minimum 2 years completed preferred).

Experience: No prior professional experience required; coursework, projects, or personal engineering pursuits a plus.

Technical Skills

Basic familiarity with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) from coursework or self-study.

Introductory knowledge of mechanical principles, fasteners, or robotics concepts.

Comfort with Microsoft Word and Excel for documentation and data tracking.

Communication: Clear verbal and written skills, eager to learn and engage with a team.

Problem-Solving: Curious, detail-oriented mindset with an aptitude for tackling technical challenges.

Attributes: Enthusiastic, proactive, and adaptable, with a strong desire to grow in automation

Teamwork: Be open to feedback and collaborate effectively with engineers and cross functional departments.

Initiative: Show curiosity, take on small tasks proactively, and seek learning opportunities.

Adaptability: Adjust quickly when project scopes or priorities shift.