Engineering Technician Co-Op
About The Position
This co-op gives students the opportunity to work on real-world engineering challenges, partner with experienced engineers, gain exposure to advanced technologies, and contribute to projects supporting agricultural innovation and global product supply operations. Participants will build practical technical skills and develop professional capabilities for future engineering careers. The role supports engineering testing, data collection and analysis, equipment and instrumentation, prototype development, continuous improvement, and project coordination. Work may involve laboratory, greenhouse, field, manufacturing, and operational environments. The co-op will also document technical work, communicate progress and findings to stakeholders, and follow company safety, environmental, quality, and compliance requirements. The position is located in Ames, Iowa, United States. The estimated salary range is $24.00 to $45.50; additional compensation may include a bonus or commission if relevant. Potential benefits may include health care, vision, dental, retirement, PTO, and sick leave, if relevant. The posting will be available for application until at least March 19, 2027.
Requirements
- Currently pursuing an associate or bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, software engineering, or a related technical discipline.
- Strong mechanical and technical aptitude.
- Basic understanding of engineering principles and problem-solving methods.
- Experience with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
- Ability to interpret technical drawings, procedures, and documentation.
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
- Ability to work effectively on multidisciplinary teams.
- Demonstrated initiative, curiosity, and willingness to learn.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Ability to work independently while seeking guidance when appropriate.
- Commitment to safety and continuous improvement.
Nice To Haves
- Familiarity with data analysis, automation, instrumentation, CAD, programming, or manufacturing systems.
Responsibilities
- Assist engineers with testing, validation, troubleshooting, and optimization of equipment, systems, and processes.
- Collect, organize, analyze, and report technical data from laboratory, greenhouse, field, manufacturing, and operational environments.
- Support installation, maintenance, calibration, modification, and qualification of engineering equipment and instrumentation.
- Create and maintain technical documentation, work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), test reports, and engineering records.
- Assist with prototype development, fixture design, fabrication, and assembly activities.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, reliability, productivity, and cost reduction.
- Use software tools for data analysis, visualization, project tracking, and technical documentation.
- Participate in root cause investigations and problem-solving activities using engineering methodologies.
- Support project planning, execution, and tracking, including status reporting and milestone management.
- Present project progress, technical findings, and recommendations to engineering and business stakeholders.
- Follow company safety, environmental, quality, and compliance requirements.
Benefits
- Potential benefits may include health care, vision, dental, retirement, PTO, and sick leave, if relevant.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
Associate degree
