Manufacturing Engineer Intern​/Co-Op

Posted Monday, August 24, 2026 at 5:00 AM | Expires Sunday, October 4, 2026 at 4:59 AM

$24.00-$30.50 / hr., based on prior experience

As a Manufacturing Engineer Intern or Co-op, you will gain hands-on experience in a world-class manufacturing environment while working alongside experienced engineers, operators, maintenance technicians, and leaders. This role provides exposure to pulp mill operations, process optimization, reliability improvement, and continuous improvement initiatives. As a manufacturing engineer intern or co-op, you will hire directly into one of manufacturing facility locations:
Columbus, MS;
Franklin, VA;
New Bern, NC;
Riegelwood, NC;
Port Wentworth, GA;
Flint River, GA.

The responsibilities listed below are representative of the role but are not all-inclusive. Team members are expected to contribute wherever needed to support safety, operational excellence, quality, reliability, and cost-effective operations.

• Support daily pulp mill operations by helping troubleshoot process, equipment, and reliability issues.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret operational and process data to identify performance improvement opportunities.
• Assist with process monitoring, testing, and optimization efforts.
• Gather process samples and perform laboratory and chemical testing.
• Update operating procedures, work systems, process documentation, and mill drawings.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Collaborate with engineers, operators, maintenance technicians, contractors, and mill leadership to solve complex technical challenges.
• Lead or contribute to value-added projects focused on safety, productivity, quality, reliability, sustainability, or cost reduction.
• Learn and utilize digital tools, data systems, and analytical software to evaluate performance and communicate results.
• Provide leadership in supporting a strong safety culture by identifying hazards, following safe work practices, wearing required PPE, and intervening when unsafe conditions or behaviors are observed.
• May coordinate work activities with contractors and other support resources.

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related STEM field, with an expected graduation date of December 2027 or later.
• Preferred majors include:
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Paper Science Engineering
• Other relevant disciplines may also be considered, including:
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Manufacturing Engineering
  • Engineering Technology
  • Instrumentation & Control
  • Instrumentation Engineering Technology
  • Other closely related technical fields

• Interest in pursuing a career in manufacturing, industrial operations, or engineering.
• Comfortable working in a heavy industrial environment that may include large equipment, elevated temperatures, noise, and varying weather conditions.
• Demonstrates a strong commitment to safety and safe work practices.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to learn quickly, adapt to changing priorities, and thrive in a dynamic operating environment.
• Self-motivated with a strong work ethic and a desire to take initiative.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work across all levels of the organization.
• Demonstrated organizational and time-management skills.
• Leadership experience through internships, work experience, academic projects, student organizations, athletics, military service, volunteer activities, or other extracurricular involvement.
• Eagerness to develop technical, professional, and leadership capabilities.
• Ability to work effectively with operators, mechanics, electricians, engineers, contractors, and management.
• Must have reliable transportation.

• Previous manufacturing, industrial, technical, laboratory, or engineering experience is a plus but not required.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Excel, data analysis tools, or engineering software is beneficial.

High-performing interns and co-op students may be considered for future internship assignments or full-time engineering opportunities with Global Cellulose Fibers upon successful completion of their degree program.

Our GCF business helps customers transform renewable cellulose fibers into essential everyday products. Our safe, high-quality pulp forms the basis for a wide range of applications like towel and tissue products, diapers, feminine care, incontinence and other personal care products that promote health and wellness. In addition, our specialty pulp serves as a sustainable raw material used in construction materials, paints, coatings and more.

GCF generated $2.8B in revenue in 2024 and has 3,300 employees globally, with nine manufacturing facilities and eight regional offices. Additional information can be…