About the role#
The Mechanical Engineering Co-op will assist project engineers with the development of deliverables including drawings, equipment specifications, and budget estimates. You will gain exposure to industrial mechanical utilities like HVAC, steam, cooling water, and compressed air systems. This role involves participating in all project phases from concept design through implementation and testing under the supervision of senior engineering staff.
What you'll do#
- Support engineering teams with project development tasks and technical deliverables.
- Complete defined tasks independently while collaborating with senior staff to clarify processes.
- Ensure project deliverables meet or exceed customer standards and expectations.
- Document and communicate engineering decisions and calculations for review.
- Take ownership of project issues and drive them toward resolution.
- Build professional relationships with coworkers, clients, suppliers, and industry partners.
- Contribute to a collaborative environment where new ideas are discussed.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in a Bachelor or Master degree program for Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, specifically Word and Excel.
- Experience with CAD software such as Revit, AutoCAD, Inventor, or Solidworks.
- Interest in understanding how system components function together.
- Ability to work independently and take initiative on assigned projects.
- Flexibility to handle various tasks and project requirements.
- Coursework in fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and mechanical systems is preferred.
- Previous co-op experience is a plus.
Location & details#
- Location: Hammond, Indiana.
- Term: Winter 2027.
- Modality: On-site.
- Employment: Part-time, paid position.
- Travel: Up to 25 percent.
About Salas O'Brien
Salas O'Brien is an employee-owned engineering and technical services firm. Based in Irvine, California, the company employs over 2,300 people. It provides services across architecture, structural engineering, and energy efficiency. The firm works on projects related to sustainability and decarbonization.
How to get in at Salas O'Brien
Applying early at Salas O'Brien gives you a distinct advantage before the candidate pool grows too large. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, so you can submit your application among the first. Getting your materials in front of a human before the pile grows is a practical way to manage the job hunt. You can also improve your response rates by reaching out to the recruiters behind these roles directly. Intern Insider surfaces the specific people managing these openings, allowing you to ask informed questions or request a referral. Connecting with the right person often makes the difference between a silent inbox and a conversation.



