Engineer Co-op

Job Description

About Cargill:

Cargill is a global company with a team of 155,000 employees. With over 154 years of experience, they connect farmers with markets, customers with ingredients, and people and animals with the food they need. They utilize new technologies and dynamic insights to achieve this. Their mission is to build a stronger, more sustainable future.

Job Description: Engineering Co-op (January 2026)

Cargill offers Engineering Co-op opportunities for students pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in various engineering disciplines (Chemical, Biochemical, Mechanical, Biosystems, Agricultural, Mining, Electrical, Industrial, Environmental, Packaging, or related fields). The co-op program is designed to provide real-world experience and prepare students for their careers.

Co-op Duration and Compensation:

The co-op is typically 7-8 months long (January-August 2026) and is a paid position with an hourly rate of $22.50 – $31.10. The exact rate depends on factors such as graduation date and full-time employment eligibility. Transportation to and from work is the responsibility of the co-op. Housing assistance and relocation reimbursement are offered to qualifying candidates.

Co-op Locations and Work Environment:

The co-op positions are located at various Cargill production facilities across the United States. Candidates must be willing to relocate. The work environment is described as team-oriented, fast-paced, and hands-on, focusing on employee engagement, inclusion, and innovation. The physical work requires moderate exertion with bending, stooping, lifting (occasionally over 50 pounds, frequently 10-25 pounds), and potential exposure to elements like heat, cold, and grain dust.

Types of Engineering Roles:

The co-op program offers exposure to both Operations Leadership and Maintenance & Reliability Engineering. Potential career paths after the co-op include:

• Production Management Engineers: Leading people, processes, and production in a plant environment, including supervising operators, participating in daily production meetings, ensuring regulatory compliance, and handling employee relations. Responsibilities include process optimization, equipment reliability, and potential capital project management.
• Environmental Engineers: Working with various teams and systems (refrigeration, steam, water, compressed air, wastewater treatment) to ensure effective plant operation and environmental compliance. This includes supervising operators and technicians and managing daily work and planning activities, including maintenance and capital projects.
• Process/Project Engineers: Developing business cases, managing budgets, and leading projects related to process optimization, safety, quality, infrastructure, and energy use. This involves innovation processes, idea generation, and implementing technical initiatives.
• Maintenance & Reliability Engineers: Engaging teams to improve processes and ensure minimal downtime and repair costs. Responsibilities include supervising specialized teams, planning maintenance activities, and utilizing tools like RCM, FMEA, RCA, and 5S to prevent equipment failures.

Program Features:

• Opportunities to network with other interns and co-ops across the U.S.
• Potential for a second co-op or full-time offer after successful completion.
• Access to volunteer and community outreach opportunities.
• Paid time off for volunteer activities.
• Access to various benefits including paid time off, mental health and wellbeing programs, and a digital learning library. Additional benefits (medical, etc.) depend on the position and hours worked.
• A supportive network including university recruiting staff, mentors, colleagues, and supervisors.
• Participation in Business Resource Groups (BRGs) fostering diversity and inclusion.

Required Qualifications:

• Legal authorization to work in the U.S. (not solely based on a student visa or third-party sponsored visa).
• Currently pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
• Degree completion between December 2026 and May 2029.
• Ability to complete a 7-8-month co-op from January to August 2026.
• Geographic flexibility and willingness to relocate anywhere in the U.S.
• High degree of initiative and resourcefulness.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse individuals.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous plant, production, co-op, or internship experience.
• GPA of 2.7 or higher.
• Ability to apply technical knowledge to job duties.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication skills (written and oral).
• Leadership experience.