Mechanical Engineering Co-op - Career Growth Path

Mechanical Engineering Co-op – Extended Industry Experience

Location: Birmingham, Alabama (McCalla Facility)
Type: Full-Time Co-op (Semester or Multi-Semester) 
Compensation: $30/hour + $500/month housing stipend (for out-of-town students)

Who We Are

Coalmont Engineering is a multi-disciplined Electrical & Mechanical Engineering firm specializing in custom automation, equipment design, and power distribution systems. We partner with some of the most respected companies in heavy industry—steel, paper, mining, automotive, nuclear, and more—to deliver innovative solutions that keep their operations running at peak performance.

Our Birmingham-area facility (McCalla, AL) offers students both city and rural living options with a short, low-traffic commute. Our culture emphasizes mentorship, collaboration, and growth, making Coalmont an excellent place to gain deep, real-world engineering experience.

Why Join as a Co-op?

A Co-op offers longer-term immersion than a summer internship. At Coalmont, you’ll be fully involved in active projects from day one. You’ll experience projects through multiple phases—from concept and CAD design, fabrication, assembly, and to field commissioning.

• Design components and equipment in SolidWorks/Inventor.
• Produce and detail 2D/3D shop drawings with machining tolerances.
• Collaborate with the fabrication shop on manufacturing and assembly.
• Gain exposure to CNC machining, laser & plasma tables, welding, and shop processes.
• Participate in commissioning, troubleshooting, and quality assurance.
• Contribute to modernization, retrofits, and automation upgrades across heavy industries.

What You’ll Do 

Your Experience Will Include: 

• Design mechanical systems and equipment in SolidWorks. 
• Apply fits/tolerances, weldment design, and design for manufacturability. 
• Produce 2D/3D shop drawings and collaborate with fabrication teams. 
• Support assembly, testing, and field commissioning. 
• Update designs to “as-built” state and create customer manuals. 
• Monitor budgets and schedules on assigned projects. 

What You’ll Gain: 

• Real-world engineering experience with industrial-scale projects. 
• Mentorship and guidance from senior engineers. 
• Exposure to deadlines, customer needs, and industry standards. 
• A stronger skill set and resume that will set you apart from your peers.
• Consideration for Full-Time offers after graduation.

What We’re Looking For

Qualifications:

• Currently pursuing a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering (or related field). 
• Curiosity, initiative, and a hands-on learning mindset.
• Reliability and ability to manage tasks without constant direction.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Interest in machine design, automation, and manufacturing practices.

Preferred (not required): 

• Familiarity with Solidworks or other CAD tools. 
• Coursework or lab experience in simulation or FEA 
• Exposure to manufacturing practices
• Examples of leadership, teamwork, or technical projects. 

No prior internship required—just bring curiosity, reliability, and a willingness to learn.

Benefits & Perks

• $30/hour pay + $500/month housing stipend.
• Paid holidays (if scheduled during your term).
• Long-term professional experience in a fast-paced, supportive environment.
• Strong consideration for full-time opportunities after graduation.
• Potential for a return offer as a full-time engineer after graduation.

The Work You’ll Impact

You’ll be exposed to a wide range of industrial mechanical engineering projects, including: 

• Industrial control systems and automation. 
• Custom equipment design & commissioning. 
• Manufacturing practices 
• Variable speed drive systems and motor applications. 
• System troubleshooting, modernization, and optimization. 
• Your work will directly support industries that power the economy and shape the future.

Your extended involvement will give you a comprehensive understanding of how engineering projects move from concept to completion, preparing you for success in your career.

Ready to take your engineering education to the next level?
Apply today to join Coalmont Engineering’s Co-op program and gain the depth of experience that will set you apart after graduation.