Mechanical Engineering Intern

The Mechanical Engineering Intern will support our maintenance team by contributing to equipment performance analysis, reliability improvement projects, and maintenance optimization across the plant and mine. This internship offers real-world exposure to heavy industrial systems, mineral processing infrastructure, and the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to a dynamic operating environment.

What You’ll Gain

• Gain hands-on experience in mining and mineral processing equipment
• Understand the fundamentals of maintenance planning and asset management
• Develop skills in root cause analysis, reliability engineering, and project planning
• Build communication skills through cross-functional teamwork
• This internship is an excellent opportunity for students seeking to apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting and learn from experienced professionals in the copper mining industry. 

Essential Functions:

• Assist in data collection and analysis related to fixed and mobile equipment reliability
• Compile critical spares list and obtain pricing information
• Support root cause failure analysis (RCFA) and recommend corrective actions
• Help develop and refine preventive and predictive maintenance plans
• Participate in inspections of pumps, conveyors, crushers, mills, and tank systems
• Collaborate with plant operators, maintenance technicians, and engineers to troubleshoot and resolve equipment issues
• Assist with updating technical drawings and maintaining engineering documentation
• May draft mechanical layouts, equipment modifications, and maintenance procedures

Skills & Competencies 

• Knowledge of and enthusiasm for mechanical engineering and/or mineral processing
• Passion for learning, and a willingness to think outside the box.
• Be a highly motivated self-starter
• Ability to work as part of a team with people from both within and outside the lab. 
• Be able to communicate effectively, and possess time-management and organizational skills
• Understanding of the importance of operational discipline and following instructions

Compensation

Depends on experience and skill set of the individual 

Work Environment

• The work is performed in office and active mining settings, containing instrumentation, heavy machinery and equipment, instruments.
• The work requires walking and ascending/descending areas of uneven ground and stairs on a regular basis
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to airborne particles, dust, fumes, and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Physical Demands

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. This position is very active and requires standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, and crouching. 
• Exerting 20 to 50 lbs. of force occasionally and/or 10 to 25 lbs. of force frequently and/or up to 10 lbs. of force constantly; must be able to lift up to 50 pounds on occasion. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. 
• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee and/or intern to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

The mine operates seven days per week, 24 hours per day, and the internship will take place during daytime hours from Monday-Friday.  Actual work schedule to be determined by business need and intern work availability. 

Travel
Travel on property to mining areas and between buildings will be required. 

 Qualifications:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
• Completion of sophomore year or higher preferred
• Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in heavy industry
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel; familiarity with CAD and CMMS software is a plus
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Willingness to work in an industrial environment and follow all safety procedures