Future Opportunities Engineering Co-Op (Fall 2026)

Location: Robinson, IL

Duration: Summer/Fall 2026

We are seeking a motivated Engineering Co-op to join our Robinson plant operations team. In this co-op position, the student will be working in an industrial environment and be expected to assume a very "hands-on" role. The co-op will be given challenging, productive assignments similar to those of an entry-level, full-time engineer, allowing him/her to experience a sense of accomplishment and contribution. Specific duties will mainly involve working with packaging and processing equipment. This will require the student to work directly with Production, Maintenance, Quality, Contractors, Vendors, Engineering, and other support team members depending on the assignment.

Key Responsibilities

• Process Improvement: Analyze production data to identify bottlenecks and implement Lean Manufacturing solutions to increase throughput.
• Project Support: Assist in the design, scope, cost estimates, installation, and commissioning of new food processing and packaging equipment.
• Maintenance & Reliability: Support the Preventative Maintenance (PM) program and assist in troubleshooting mechanical and electrical failures.
• Safety & Quality: Ensure all engineering activities comply with SQF (Safe Quality Food) standards.
• Documentation: Update P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams), floor layouts, and technical SOPs.

Basic Qualifications

• Education: Currently pursuing a B.S. in Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial, or Electrical Engineering.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency with Microsoft Office. Proficiency in AutoCAD or SolidWorks; familiarity with PLC logic is a plus.
• Soft Skills: Strong problem-solving abilities and the communication skills needed to work with diverse floor teams.
• Environment: Ability to work in varying temperatures and wear required PPE (hairnets, steel-toed boots).

Why Join Us?

• Gain real world hands on experience in a vital industry.
• Mentorship from experienced engineers.
• Potential for full-time placement upon graduation.

The Hershey Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The policy of The Hershey Company is to extend opportunities to qualified applicants and employees on an equal basis regardless of an individual's race, color, gender, age, national origin, religion, citizenship status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, transgender status, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other categories protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.

The Hershey Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority/Female/Disabled/Protected Veterans.

You may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our online application process as a result of a disability.
You can request an accommodation via phone or email.

To request an accommodation via phone, please call +1 877-804-1794 and leave a voicemail with your contact information. You may also email a request for accommodation to ApplicationHelp@hersheys.com. Please be sure to include "Accommodation Needed" in the subject line. This will ensure that your email is routed to the appropriate contact who will handle your request.