Mechanical Engineering Intern, Summer 2027

Job Description:

Mechanical Engineering Intern

Glenview, IL | Summer 2027
Hourly Pay: $28 per hour

Why This Role Matters

As a Mechanical Engineering Intern with ITW Construction, Mechanical Fastening, you will contribute to the development and testing of anchoring products that support the business's growth initiatives. This internship provides hands-on experience applying engineering principles to real-world product development challenges while building practical skills in design, testing, data analysis, and technical communication. Working alongside experienced engineers, you'll gain exposure to the engineering processes and cross-functional collaboration that bring innovative products from concept to market.

What You’ll Do

• Create and update CAD drawings and 3D models using SolidWorks and PDM.
• Support prototype development, product testing, and evaluation activities.
• Design and develop installation and test fixtures that improve setup efficiency and testing reliability.
• Analyze test data using Excel and other analytical tools to identify trends, investigate results, and support root cause analysis.
• Create work instructions and technical reports that communicate test procedures, results, and recommendations clearly and accurately.
• Collaborate with engineering and cross-functional teams to troubleshoot issues, share findings, and support new product development activities.

What You Need to Succeed

Must-Have

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and entering your senior year by Summer 2027.
• Working knowledge of SolidWorks, 3D modeling, and fundamental engineering principles.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
• Strong critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Curiosity and a desire to learn and apply new knowledge.
• Initiative, perseverance, and a strong work ethic.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to commute to Glenview, IL with occasional visits to Lake Forest, IL

Nice-to-Have

• Previous engineering internship, laboratory, project team, or other hands-on technical experience.
• Experience with product testing, technical documentation, data analysis, or root cause analysis.
• Exposure to construction products, manufacturing environments, or related industries.

What’s In It for You

This internship gives you the opportunity to move beyond the classroom and gain hands-on experience applying engineering principles to real product development challenges. Working alongside experienced engineers, you'll build practical skills in CAD design, prototyping, testing, troubleshooting, data analysis, and technical communication while contributing to projects that support Mechanical Fastening's growth initiatives.

Throughout the summer, you'll gain exposure to new product development processes, strengthen your ability to analyze and interpret data, and learn how engineering decisions impact product performance, manufacturing operations, and business objectives. You'll also have opportunities to collaborate with cross-functional teams and develop a broader understanding of how engineering, manufacturing, and business needs work together to bring products to market.

Grounded in ITW’s four Core Commitments, we aim to ensure all colleagues, regardless of segment, division, geography, or title, experience what differentiates ITW as a great employer. Learn more at Students | ITW.

About ITW Mechanical Fastening

ITW Mechanical Fastening offers a broad range of professional-grade tools and fasteners for construction applications. Our portfolio includes structural wood fasteners from GRK Fasteners™, concrete anchoring systems from Tapcon®, Red Head®, and Ramset®, underlayment screws from Backer-On® and Rock-On®, self-drilling screws from Teks®, and drywall anchoring systems from E-Z Ancor®. Our products are trusted by industry professionals and are recognized as leaders in quality, performance, and ease of use.

About ITW

Founded in 1912, Illinois Tool Works Inc. is a Fortune 300 global multi-industry manufacturing leader. ITW's industry-leading businesses leverage the unique ITW Business Model to drive growth through innovative, customer-focused solutions. Our approximately 43,000 colleagues worldwide thrive in a decentralized and entrepreneurial culture.

Work Environment

This position is based primarily in our Glenview corporate office and may involve work in test laboratories, manufacturing facilities, and job or construction site environments. Depending on the assignment, you may be exposed to airborne particles, climate variances, moving mechanical equipment, and elevated noise levels. Personal protective equipment is required in designated areas, and safety is a top priority.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to frequently sit, stand, communicate, hear, and reach with hands and arms.
• Ability to walk and stand for extended periods at job sites, laboratories, or manufacturing locations.
• Ability to lift and move up to 40 pounds.
• Close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.

Compensation Information:

Hourly pay: $28.10 per hour

Please note that compensation information serves as a general guideline. The company considers various factors when extending an offer, including the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s education and training, relevant experience, key skills, and market and business considerations.

ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues’ unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential. 

As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.