R&D Engineering Co-op (Summer 2027)
About The Position
The R&D Engineering Co-op offers hands-on experience in the medical device field, working within STERIS’s Research & Development group and alongside experienced engineers. The co-op contributes to cross-functional product development teams and new product development projects, while also helping improve existing products for efficiency and cost-effectiveness and assisting with day-to-day production. Work may include building test samples and compiling, analyzing, and reporting data to establish performance standards for new or modified products, processes, or materials. The role is based in Vernon Hills, Illinois, and is hybrid, with three days per week in the office. The co-op runs from May through August 2027 and is full-time for its duration. STERIS is a global provider of products and services supporting patient care, with an emphasis on infection prevention. The company describes its mission as helping customers create a healthier and safer world through healthcare and life sciences products and services.
Requirements
- Currently enrolled in an accredited college or institution and in good academic standing, pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in Engineering; Biomedical, Mechanical, Materials, or Industrial Engineering is preferred.
- Completed sophomore-year requirements by the program start in May 2027.
- Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, Access, and Outlook.
- Basic CAD skills.
- Clear written and oral communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work in cross-functional teams.
Nice To Haves
- Basic CAD skills in SolidWorks are preferred.
- Previous internship or co-op experience.
- Preference for candidates who can return for multiple co-op rotations.
- Experience with Python or other data analysis or automation platforms.
Responsibilities
- Complete basic project and product development tasks, such as building and evaluating prototypes, developing and writing test methods, and documenting new product concepts and specifications.
- Attend and contribute to product development meetings with representatives from functions including Marketing, Regulatory, Manufacturing, and Quality.
- Create concepts, designs, and approaches for new products, processes, and test methods.
- Create and revise CAD models and drawings in SolidWorks.
- Design, procure, and fabricate simple tooling and fixtures.
- Design and coordinate engineering tests and experiments.
- Work with Quality and Operations personnel to ensure ISO 13485 compliance.
- Communicate technical results and findings to audiences with varied technical expertise.
- Establish and maintain design history files for projects and products.
- Identify areas for improvement, suggest solutions, and submit idea records.
- Assist with day-to-day production and work on existing products to improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
- Build test samples and compile, analyze, and report data to establish performance standards for newly designed or modified products, processes, or materials.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
