Job Description

Job Title

Mechanical Engineering Intern

Job #

US20120

Requisition Type

Intern/Apprentice

Function

Operations

State/Province

Virginia

City

Blacksburg

Region

US

Posting Start Date

Jul-31-2026

Division Information

The Pet Care business unit of Spectrum Brands is based in St. Louis, Missouri with distribution, manufacturing and sales offices throughout the US and globe. Owners of dogs, cats, birds, small animals, fish and reptiles rely on our brands for exceptional value and trusted results. Our industry-leading brands include Tetra®, Instant Ocean®, Marineland®, 8-in-1®, Dingo®, FURminator®, Nature’s Miracle®, GloFish®, DreamBone® and SmartBones®.

Job Summary

Assist in the design, analysis, development, testing, and improvement of mechanical systems, equipment, and manufacturing processes. Support engineering and operations teams in maintaining equipment reliability, improving safety, increasing efficiency, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives within a production environment.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Assist mechanical, maintenance, and manufacturing engineers in the design, modification, and improvement of mechanical systems, tooling, fixtures, and equipment used in production operations.
• Support troubleshooting of mechanical equipment issues, including root cause analysis of failures, corrective actions, and preventive maintenance recommendations.
• Assist with equipment layouts, machine installations, line modifications, and process improvements to optimize safety, ergonomics, efficiency, and throughput.
• Participate in equipment inspections, performance testing, and validation activities to ensure systems meet design specifications, quality standards, and safety requirements.
• Develop and update technical documentation including equipment drawings, standard work, preventive maintenance instructions, SOPs, and change documentation.
• Collect and analyze data related to machine performance, downtime, scrap, and maintenance activities to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
• Support Continuous Improvement, Engineering, and Maintenance teams in developing, building, or testing prototypes, fixtures, automation concepts, or process enhancements.
• Assist with vendor coordination, including reviewing technical documentation, supporting equipment quotes, and participating in FAT/SAT activities as needed.
• Participate in Kaizen events, reliability initiatives, and cost-reduction projects focused on improving asset utilization, uptime, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
• Follow all safety policies and procedures and actively contribute to a strong safety culture within the plant.

Education and Experience Profile

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline
• Demonstrates leadership in academic projects, internships, co-ops, extracurricular activities, or service organizations
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to apply engineering fundamentals to real-world manufacturing challenges
• Ability to manage multiple projects or assignments simultaneously while meeting deadlines
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain technical concepts to diverse audiences
• Demonstrates integrity, accountability, teamwork, and a continuous learning mindset
• Shows initiative and creativity in identifying improvement opportunities and proposing practical solutions

Required Skills

• Basic understanding of mechanical systems, materials, and manufacturing processes
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Familiarity with CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar preferred)
• Exposure to reliability concepts, maintenance practices, or manufacturing equipment preferred
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement concepts preferred
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

Work Environment

Repetitive movements required. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds with or without assistance. Must be able to stand, walk, and work on the manufacturing floor for extended periods of time. Must be available to work across multiple shifts as needed. Must wear all prescribed PPE including, but not limited to hearing protection, safety glasses, respirator, and steel-toed shoes.

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