Plastics Engineering Intern - Summer 2026

Position Title

Plastics Engineering Intern

Location

Detroit, MI (On-Site)

Duration

May 11th - August 7th, 2026

Department

Operations - IMM

Reports to

IMM Operations Manager

DMS' Purpose

We are creating a culture of service. We empower others to grow, rise, and give back - accelerating positive change in the world. We lead with the heart to bring out the best in you - which brings out the best in us. We do well so we can do good.

Serve Others, Enrich Lives, Rise Together, and Give Back

Position Overview

The Plastics Engineering Intern will work closely with our engineering team to support various stages of product development, manufacturing, and quality assurance for automotive plastic components. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced, high-tech environment where innovation and precision are key.

Key Responsibilities

• Product Development: Assist in the design, prototyping, and testing of new plastic automotive components, ensuring they meet industry standards and customer specifications.
• Material Analysis: Conduct research and testing on plastic materials to determine the best fit for specific automotive applications, focusing on durability, performance, and cost-effectiveness.
• Manufacturing Support: Collaborate with engineers to optimize injection molding, extrusion, and other plastic manufacturing processes, ensuring efficiency and consistency in high-volume production.
• Quality Assurance: Participate in quality inspections, including dimensional checks, mechanical testing, and failure analysis, to ensure products meet stringent automotive standards.
• Tooling and Equipment: Assist in the design and validation of tooling and equipment used in the production of plastic components, working to improve process reliability and product quality.
• Documentation: Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations summarizing project findings, test results, and recommendations for process improvements.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain, to support product development and launch activities.
• Continuous Improvement: Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing product performance, reducing costs, and improving manufacturing processes.
  
  

Qualifications

• Education: Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Plastics Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Technical Skills: Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD), plastic materials, and automotive manufacturing processes (e.g., injection molding, extrusion, thermoforming).
• Automotive Knowledge: Understanding of automotive industry standards and requirements, such as IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning), is a plus.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work on complex engineering challenges.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Team Collaboration: Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment, with a proactive approach to learning and contributing.
• Adaptability: Willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies and processes in a dynamic automotive environment.
  
  

What We Offer

• Industry Experience: Work on projects that directly impact the development and manufacturing of automotive components for leading vehicle manufacturers.
• Mentorship: Receive guidance and mentorship from experienced engineers and automotive industry professionals.
• Networking: Build relationships with professionals across various departments and levels within the company.
• Professional Development: Access to training resources and opportunities to enhance your engineering and automotive industry knowledge.
• Career Opportunities: High-performing interns may be considered for full-time opportunities within our engineering team upon graduation.
  
  

Traits/Values

• Integrity - adhering to high ethical principles and professional standards.
• Trustworthiness - Being honest, dependable, and earning the confidence of others.
• Excellence - consistently being the best you can be.
• Responsible - being reliable and trustworthy.
• Accountability - being obligated and willing to accept responsibility for one's actions.
• Dignity - behaving in accord with DMS basic principles.
• Respect - treating others as you would have them treat you.
  
  

Our Values

Gratitude * Integrity * Fun * Teamwork * Excellence * Diversity &

Respect * Innovation * Commitment * Humility