Mechanical Engineering Intern (Summer 2027)

Illinois Tool Works is hiring a Mechanical Engineering Intern (Summer 2027) in Lake Forest, IL. When: Summer 2027. Pay stated by the employer: $28.10/hr. Posted November 10, 2026. Checked against the employer's posting on November 12, 2026.

Job Description: The Mechanical Engineering Intern will support the Global Tool Unit (GTU) New Product Development team in the research, development, testing, and validation of new products, technologies, and engineering concepts.

Working alongside experienced engineers, the intern will participate in product development projects by conducting engineering studies, developing and executing test procedures, analyzing performance data, building and evaluating prototypes, and supporting technology investigations.

This role provides hands-on exposure to the New Product Development process, from concept evaluation through product validation, while contributing to the advancement of innovative solutions at GTU's Lake Forest, IL facility.

Core Responsibilities: • Participate as a member of GTU's New Product Development team to support the development of new products and technologies. • Assist in planning, developing, and executing engineering tests to evaluate product performance, durability, safety, and reliability.

• Identify design and performance gaps in the GTU’s parts and products. Recommend and implement improvements with a focus on mechanical systems • Create and modify component and assembly designs using CAD software (Creo).

• Use Engineering methodologies, develop & monitor tests to demonstrate improvements to product performance Expected Learnings: • Mechanical design and modeling using Creo CAD software • Design of Experiments (DOE) and data-driven engineering decision-making.

• Fundamentals of cordless power tool systems, mechanical systems, energy conversion, materials, and manufacturing processes. • Evaluation of emerging technologies and application of engineering principles to solve technical challenges.

• Understanding production inefficiencies, data interpretation, and problem resolution with a focus on high-quality outcomes. • Effective technical documentation, reporting, and presentation skills.

• Cross-functional collaboration between engineering, manufacturing, quality, and business / market’s needs. • Ability to work on and communicate with multi-disciplinary teams Job Requirements: • Mechanical Engineering major required.

• Completed or currently enrolled in coursework related to Statics, Dynamics, Mechanics of Materials, Machine Design, Thermodynamics, and Fluid Mechanics preferred.

• Demonstrated interest in product development, engineering testing, research, or applied mechanical engineering. • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Proficient in Word, Excel, PowerPoint. • PTC Creo experience preferred. • Familiarity with laboratory testing, data analysis, or hands-on project work is a plus.

• 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: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 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.