Manufacturing Engineer Co-Op

Opportunity Overview: Accelerate your career with direct floor exposure at a leading manufacturer of high-performance, energy solutions and defense systems. This co-op role embeds you into our operations team, where you will assist in optimizing assembly workflows, designing production tooling, and executing Lean and continuous improvement initiatives. Available for Spring session POSITION SUMMARY: The Manufacturing Engineering Co-op student will provide essential technical and hands-on support to the Manufacturing Engineering department. Operating on the production floor and in engineering labs, you will work closely with Senior Engineers to identify bottlenecks, improve manufacturing yield, design production fixtures, and update critical technical documentation. This role bridges the gap between engineering theory and high-volume, regulated manufacturing reality. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Process Evaluation & Optimization: Conduct time studies, value-stream mapping, and line balancing analyses on existing production lines to reduce cycle times and eliminate waste. Tooling & Fixture Design: Utilize SolidWorks or Creo to design, prototype, and implement mechanical assembly fixtures, custom holding nests, and ergonomic hand tools for the manufacturing floor. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Author, update, and manage Manufacturing Work Instructions (MWIs) and routers, ensuring clarity for assembly operators and alignment with quality management systems. Equipment & Assembly Troubleshooting: Assist in debugging mechanical, pneumatic, and electromechanical equipment (such as ultrasonic welders, laser markers, automated testing fixtures, and dispensing systems) when production variances occur. Quality Support & Deviation Investigations: Collaborate on root-cause analysis investigations for product defects, assist in compiling data for Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs), and support the execution of corrective and preventive actions (CAPA). Lean Implementation: Assist in executing 5S audits, continuous improvement (Kaizen) projects, and cell layout modifications to boost spatial efficiency and safety. QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS: Academic Standing: Currently enrolled in an accredited undergraduate program in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline. Must have completed at least 2 years of study. CAD Proficiency: Direct experience or solid coursework foundation utilizing 3D modeling software (SolidWorks preferred, Creo or AutoCAD acceptable) for mechanical assemblies. Hands-On Aptitude: Comfort with hand tools, prototyping, mechanical troubleshooting, and spending substantial portions of the day on an active production floor. Data & Analytical Skills: Strong capability with Microsoft Excel for managing and plotting engineering datasets; experience with statistical software (Minitab) or lean manufacturing principles is a plus. Communication & Soft Skills: Exceptional teamwork and interpersonal skills to collaborate comfortably across teams—ranging from shop-floor assembly operators to corporate management. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to use hands for repetitive action such as pushing, pulling and grasping small parts. Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs. Ability to alternate sitting and standing for 8 hours per day. Ability to visually inspect product for quality and distinguish small detail. Ability to work around the following chemicals; Acetone, Isopropyl Alcohol WHAT YOU WILL GAIN FROM THIS EXPERIENCE: Practical expertise applying Lean Six Sigma methodologies in an active production landscape. Hands-on design experience seeing your custom fixtures move from CAD concept to floor validation. Foundational knowledge of specialized manufacturing methodologies, such as industrial battery welding, encapsulation, and electronics testing. Mentorship and guidance from experienced manufacturing, quality, and design professionals. Ultralife Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such affirms the right of every person to participate in all aspects of employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, sex, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, contact our Human Resources department via phone at 315- 332-7100. Pay for this position ranges $18-21/hour based on experience. Monday - Friday, anticipated 7:00am-3:30pm