Mechanical Engineer Student

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?

Mechanical Engineer Students will gain experience in the following areas:

• Develop concepts and ideas for designs in Creo.  
• Fabricate prototypes using 3D printing capabilities, sheet metal forming, or other methods.  
• Make suggestions for designs, processes, and product improvements.
• Regularly and reliably work scheduled hours and be willing to work additional hours as necessary.
• Perform other duties as needed to meet business needs.

Opportunities to explore different areas of engineering through rotations based on business needs and your interests.

• Manufacturing Process Engineer:    
• Develop and improve manufacturing processes aligned with lean manufacturing concepts.
• Assisting with construction of prototype cabinet designs to gather feedback and determine effectiveness.   
• Assist with the construction of workstations, gravity racks, carts, work aides and fixtures, gather feedback, and determine effectiveness.   
• Mechanical Design:
• Produce accurate design drawings and documentation for projects in Creo. Assist Engineers with design, drafting bill of materials, and routing documentation.  
• Assist in documenting and checking components in Creo.  
• Assemble and test prototypes.  
• Structural, Thermal, and Reliability testing.  
• Prepare detailed drawings of sub-assemblies and parts.  
• Write operation sequences and bill of materials (BOM).  
• Help coordinate the manufacture of systems on project basis.  
• Assist with installations as required.  

When will I work?

Applicants should be available to work approximately 15 hours per week (maximum of 20 hours per week) during the academic year and up to 40 hours per week during the summer.

Where is this opportunity located? 

Position located in Brookings, South Dakota. 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 $20.00 to $22.00 per hour based on the location of the candidate. The actual offer will consider a wide range of factors, including relevant education, experiences, location, and applicable local legislation.

Students with GPA of 3.5 and above may be eligible for a $500 Academic Excellence Reward for each spring and fall semester completed while employed.  Additional conditions may apply.

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.

To be considered for Mechanical Engineer Student, we require the following:

Academic Requirements:

• The preferred applicant will be a student registered in at least 12 credits.
• Applicants must be currently enrolled in an accredited Bachelor’s degree program in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related degree.
• The preferred applicant will be in their sophomore or junior year of school.
• 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.
• Computer skills and knowledge.
• Fluent in English, both written and verbal.
• Work with little supervision.
• 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.
• Applicants 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.
• Knowledge of general drafting practices.  
• Shown ability to work collaboratively on projects or with a partner/team.

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.