You may not know our name, but you know our products. What we make is part the places where we live, work and play – all day, everyday.
Zekelman is a family of companies — 100% domestic manufacturers — with a legacy dating back to 1877. We're proud to be the largest independent steel pipe and tube manufacturer in North America and the leading innovator in multi-family housing development.
We believe in what we build and what we build, builds the world around us. Hospitals, hotels, schools, bridges, airports and more.
Come build a career you believe in.
About the Role
As a Mechanical Engineering Intern at Atlas Tube (a division of Zekelman Industries), you will support engineering projects that improve equipment reliability, manufacturing efficiency, safety, and product quality at one of North America's leading producers of large structural steel tubing. Working closely with Engineering, Maintenance, Operations, and cross-functional teams, you'll assist with equipment improvement initiatives, process optimization, root cause analysis, and capital project support.
Students at any stage of their academic journey are encouraged to apply. This role offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in heavy manufacturing, mechanical systems, industrial equipment, and continuous improvement while exploring future internship and full-time career opportunities within Zekelman Industries.
This is a full-time, on-site internship located at our Atlas Tube facility in Kansas City, Missouri. The official Zekelman internship program runs from May 24, 2027 through August 13, 2027.
This role is perfect for someone who is mechanically inclined, enjoys solving complex problems, is curious about manufacturing operations, and is eager to learn in a fast-paced industrial environment.
What You'll Do
- Support engineering projects focused on improving equipment reliability, production efficiency, and plant operations.
- Assist with mechanical system troubleshooting and root cause analysis of equipment and process issues.
- Collect and analyze operational and maintenance data to identify opportunities for improvement.
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives that enhance safety, quality, throughput, and cost performance.
- Assist with equipment upgrades, capital projects, and manufacturing process improvements.
- Create and update engineering drawings, equipment documentation, standard work instructions, and project records.
- Conduct time studies, process observations, and performance evaluations to support operational excellence initiatives.
- Collaborate with maintenance, operations, and engineering teams to identify and implement practical solutions.
- Support preventive and predictive maintenance initiatives for manufacturing equipment.
- Assist with project planning, vendor coordination, and equipment commissioning activities.
- Promote and follow healthy and safe work practices in accordance with Zekelman policy.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Who You Are
- Current college student pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a team environment.
- Experience with CAD software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor, or similar programs is preferred.
- Exposure to manufacturing processes, maintenance systems, or continuous improvement methodologies is a plus.
- Available to travel for the Internship Summit hosted at a Zekelman Industries location.
What You'll Get
Zekelman Industries offers a PAID internship experience with meaningful work, professional development, and the opportunity to make a real impact. Interns also enjoy:
- Hands-on experience improving manufacturing operations and systems
- Opportunities to work directly with operations, quality, and engineering teams
- Access to company-wide networking events, team-building activities, and learning sessions
- Regular feedback and mentorship to support your technical and career development
- Participation in a company-wide Intern Summit
Zekelman Industries offers competitive compensation and excellent benefits, including low-cost, high-quality medical and dental benefits. In addition, we have an amazing tuition assistance program, a bonus plan, a 401(k) plan with a generous company match, immediate vesting, and much more.
M/F/D/V
We are Zekelman Industries.
We manufacture superior quality tubular and related products, and provide outstanding service for our valued customers.
We seek to continuously advance the skills and opportunities of our employees, utilizing the latest technology and management tools available to consistently increase profitability and the enterprise value of Zekelman Industries and of our customers.
