Manufacturing Process Engineer Co-op Intern

Position Summary

Join Daktronics and be part of a team that creates cutting-edge digital LED display technology and audio systems. Experience the thrill of working on projects that bring excitement to sports events, attract customers worldwide, and guide people in their daily lives.

At Daktronics, you’ll engage in meaningful work and have the chance to grow both personally and professionally. Our internships and student positions offer hands-on experience, mentorship, and the opportunity to develop a deep understanding of our products and industry practices.

You’ll have a mentor who will challenge you to find solutions, take initiative and develop a strong understanding of Daktronics products, practices, and procedures. We are committed to providing the resources and mentorship necessary to thrive in your position, ensuring you feel supported and are successful.

What will the work look like for me?

Daktronics Manufacturing Process Engineer Interns will be a liaison between Manufacturing and Engineering. You will gain valuable hands-on experience as you collaborate to problem solve the day-to-day issues within manufacturing processes and products.  

• Develop and improve manufacturing processes aligned with lean manufacturing concepts.
• Coordinating with Engineering on major product changes.   
• Overseeing implementation of incremental product improvements through Engineering Change (ECO) process suggestions and overall process improvement opportunities.   
• Assisting with construction of prototype cabinet designs to gather feedback and determine effectiveness.   
• Assist with the construction of workstations, gravity racks, carts, work aids and fixtures, gather feedback, and determine effectiveness.   
• Develop concepts and ideas for tooling designs in Creo.   
• Fabricate prototypes using 3D printing capabilities, sheet metal forming, or other methods.   
• Work effectively as a team member, work with little supervision, help when and where needed, make suggestions for process and product improvement, and communicate effectively with team members.     
• Be at work on time and maintain good attendance. Be willing to work additional hours as necessary.   
• Other duties as needed to assist manufacturing departments.   

When will I work?

Our co-op internships typically run from 11 January 2027 to 13 August 2027 or 17 May 2027 to 10 December 2027, with the possibility of adjusting the schedule to fit your academic calendar. 

Where is this opportunity located? 

Position located in Sioux Falls, SD. This position is open to candidates eligible to work in the U.S.

What are the pay and perks?

The typical hiring range for this position is $21.00 to $23.00 per hour based on the location of the candidate. The actual offer will consider a wide range of factors, including relevant education, experience, location, and applicable local legislation.

This position is eligible for a subset of our company benefits including employee discount program, employee assistance program, community donation program, unpaid time off, 401(k), Employee Stock Purchase Plan, leaves, disability and accommodations. Information about Daktronics benefits can be found on our website Career Opportunities (daktronics.com) (https://www.daktronics.com/en-us/employment/careers). This information is intended to be a general overview and may be modified by Daktronics at any time.

Qualifications

To be considered for Manufacturing Process Engineer Co-Op Intern, we require the following:

Academic Requirements: 

• Preferred applicants will be full-time students of at least junior status currently enrolled in an accredited Bachelor's degree program in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• Able to take a semester off from school to complete the internship, if applicable.
• Must be able to commit to 40 hours per week.
• Work through the Cooperative Education Internship Program with accredited university and Faculty Coordinator to arrange for credit while participating in this 7-month internship.
• Only strong academic performers will be considered and must maintain an acceptable GPA, preference to 3.0 GPA or greater. 
• Unofficial transcripts or web transcripts must be submitted with application.

Other Requirements:

• Good oral and written communication skills, good organizational skills, self-motivation.
• Ability to effectively participate as a member of a team.
• Work with minimum supervision.
• Ability to learn quickly.
• Effectively exercise discretion and independent judgment.
• Physical Requirements include the ability to:
  • Operate automated equipment and/or hand tools.
  • Work with or around odors (solder/paint/solvent/manufacturing odors).
  • Lift and carry up to 45 lbs. and/or awkward items.
  • Be able to stand for the full shift.
• Ability to meet all workplace safety requirements.
• Fluent in English, both written and verbal.
• Applicant must be 18 years of age or older.
• Daktronics does not sponsor, renew, or extend immigration visas for this position.

Desired Traits:

• Familiarity with drafting and parametric modeling software, such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and Creo.

Ready to make an impact? Apply now and start your journey with Daktronics.

Daktronics is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.