Mechanical Engineer Intern at Mid-West Forge Corporation – Cleveland, Ohio

Overview

Mid-West Forge is seeking a motivated Mechanical Engineering Summer Intern to support our engineering team. This hands-on role offers real-world experience in high-volume manufacturing, equipment design, and process improvement within our upset forging and finishing operations.

Key Responsibilities

· Design, model, analyze, and improve specialized mechanical systema, example: heater hold-down fixtures and automatic in-line bar feeding mechanisms for our upset forging processes.

· Lead or support the complete redesign and rebuild of inlet and outlet mechanisms used to feed axle shafts through shot-blast cleaning units, ensuring improved throughput, alignment accuracy, and component durability.

· Create detailed 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, bills of materials, and assembly instructions using SolidWorks (or equivalent), while applying GD&T and design-for-manufacturability principles.

· Collaborate with the maintenance and fabrication teams on the procurement of materials, in-house machining, welding, assembly, installation, and commissioning of custom equipment upgrades.

· Perform hands-on testing, troubleshooting, and iterative refinement of mechanical systems under live production conditions to validate performance, safety, and reliability.

· Work on special projects as assigned by the Engineering Manager.

· Collect and analyze production data (cycle times, downtime, scrap rates, etc.) using basic statistical tools; contribute to root-cause analysis and continuous improvement projects aligned with Lean and 5S methodologies.

· Prepare professional project documentation, including technical reports, PowerPoint presentations, and cost-justification summaries for review by engineering management and operations leadership.

· Support additional engineering initiatives such as equipment guarding upgrades, ergonomic workstation improvements, and preventive maintenance enhancements as needed.

· Maintain a safe, organized, and professional work environment while strictly adhering to all company safety policies, lockout/tagout procedures, and OSHA standards.

Qualifications:

· Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a closely related field (rising junior or senior preferred).

· Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other process improvement methodologies is preferred.

· Proficiency in engineering and design software (e.g., CAD, simulation tools) and data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Minitab).

· Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a team.

· Excellent communication and organizational skills.

· Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in manufacturing, forging, or heavy industry.

· Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.

· Ability to work safely in a manufacturing environment (standing, walking, and occasional lifting up to 30 lbs).

· Must be authorized to work in the United States.

What You’ll Gain:

· Direct mentorship from experienced mechanical and manufacturing engineers.

· Exposure to precision axle-shaft production, automated forging lines, shot-blast systems, and real capital-equipment projects.

· Practical experience with design-for-manufacturability, process optimization, and facilities maintenance.

· Competitive hourly pay and the potential for future full-time opportunities upon graduation.

This is a full-time summer position (typically May–August) based at our Cleveland, Ohio facility.

Physical Demands:

This position requires adherence to strict safety regulations and the consistent use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including hard hats, eye protection, earplugs, and steel-toe footwear. The work environment may include exposure to varying temperatures, high noise levels, vibrations, confined spaces, narrow walkways, and working at heights up to 30 feet. Employees must be able to safely perform various physical tasks, including lifting up to 30 pounds.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, national origin, sex, protected veteran status or disability.,