New Product Development Engineering (rising Junior, Class Of '28) Intern Summer 2026

New Product Development (NPD) Engineer Intern (Rising Junior)

We, The Global Tool Unit (GTU), are a part of ITW's Construction Segment. We specialize in innovation, development, and manufacturing best-in-class Nailers for the global construction market. Our highly differentiated tools are specified to be used in a variety of applications including wood framing, wood trim, and steel to concrete installations. We place strong emphasis on Customer Back Innovation because we know our customers' time is valuable, and shortcuts are never an option. That is why we designed our Nailers to be faster, more durable and more reliable- because we know your business depends on it. ITW is a Fortune 200 diversified manufacturer of specialized industrial equipment, consumables, and related service businesses. ITW businesses serve local customers and markets around the globe, with a significant presence in developed as well as emerging markets. The company has operations in 58 countries that employ approximately 50,000 women and men who adhere to the highest ethical standards. These talented individuals, many of whom have specialized engineering or scientific expertise, contribute to our global leadership in innovation. You may see ITW trademarks and goods everywhere, from well-known ones like RainX, Miller Welding, and Traulsen to the development of cutting-edge items like the 6-pack beverage carrier and the Capless Fuel Filler. We are proud of our broad portfolio of nearly 12,000 active patents. The GTU currently has 34 tools in the global market that consist of complex mechanical components, combustibles and metal coated materials. Along with an on-site Machine Shop and Tool Validation, we have two production facilities and two engineering development centers.

Will you be a rising Junior in college in 2026, looking to learn from other seasoned Engineers to grow your skill set? The GTU might be the place for you! The New Product Development (NPD) Engineer Intern (Rising Junior) is responsible for supporting new product development through designing and technical analysis of mechanical components using various engineering methods, testing and inspection. This internship will focus on developing solutions for required product features or performance, troubleshooting product development issues, and implementing corrective actions at the Global Tool Unit's (GTU) Lake Forest IL facility.

Core Responsibilities

• Participate as a member of the GTU's New Product Development team
• Identify design and performance gaps in the GTU's parts and products. Recommend and implement improvements with a focus on mechanical systems
• Develop component designs using CAD (Creo)
• Use Engineering methodologies, develop & monitor tests to demonstrate improvements to product performance

Expected Learnings

• Component design with CAD (Creo)
• Design of experiments
• Applied physics. Learn about basic energy conversion methods, mechanical machine design, gas fuel combustion tool design theory
• Connection between engineering, manufacturing, and business/market needs
• Understanding of production inefficiencies, data interpretation, and problem resolution with a focus on high quality outcomes
• Ability to work on and communicate with multi-disciplinary teams

Job Requirements

• Rising Junior in College- Mechanical Engineering major required
• Have had courses in Statics, Dynamics, Fluids, Thermodynamics & Machine Design preferred
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proficient in Word, Excel, PowerPoint
• PTC Creo aptitude preferred
• ANSYS finite element software experience a plus

Job Competencies

• Critical Thinking & Decision Making: Ability to make logical and sound decisions and to know when to act independently and when to seek assistance.
• Curiosity & Learning Orientation: Actively identifying new areas for learning and applying newly gained knowledge/skill on the job.
• Drive to Excel: Driven to succeed and willing to go the extra mile. Perseveres in the face of obstacles and challenges.
• Interpersonal Skills & Communication: Ability to work collaboratively and partner well with others, express oneself verbally and in writing, and listen well.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is occasionally exposed to fumes, airborne particles, climate variances and moving mechanical equipment typically found in a manufacturing environment. The noise level in the work environment (office) is usually low, but higher when exposed to the manufacturing areas. Certain personal protective equipment is required when in the manufacturing areas.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Compensation Information

The hourly range for this position is $24 - 25.50 per hour. Please note that this wage information serves as a general guideline. The company considers various factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education and training, key skills, as well as 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.