Manufacturing Operations Intern

Manufacturing Operations & CNC Support Intern 

Department: UTEP Aerospace Center – Innovation Factory
Location: Innovation Factory, 501 George Perry Blvd, El Paso, TX
Position Type: Part-Time Internship
Schedule: Flexible, based on operational needs and student availability
Reports To: Innovation Factory Management / Program Manager

Position Summary

The UTEP Aerospace Center is seeking a motivated and technically skilled student intern to support the daily operations of the Innovation Factory. This position will assist with CNC machinery maintenance, equipment readiness, technical support for participating manufacturers, CNC training, and general facility operations.

The intern will work closely with Innovation Factory personnel and industry partners to support safe and efficient equipment use, maintain operational readiness, and assist manufacturers in utilizing the facility's advanced manufacturing capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

Equipment Maintenance & Readiness

• Assist with routine preventive maintenance, equipment inspections, and general upkeep of CNC machines and other manufacturing equipment.
• Conduct routine equipment readiness checks before scheduled training sessions and manufacturing activities.
• Identify equipment malfunctions, maintenance concerns, or potential safety hazards and report them to the appropriate personnel.
• Maintain maintenance logs, inspection records, and equipment service documentation.
• Assist with coordinating equipment servicing, repairs, and vendor support when necessary.

CNC Training & Technical Support

• Assist with CNC training sessions, equipment demonstrations, and introductory machine operation instruction under appropriate supervision.
• Provide initial technical support to participating manufacturers regarding machine capabilities, operating procedures, and general equipment-related questions.
• Support authorized machine setup, tooling preparation, and manufacturing activities.
• Help develop and update CNC training materials, equipment instructions, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Track training participation and assist with maintaining records of individuals who have completed required equipment training.
• Refer complex technical questions or equipment issues to qualified technical personnel.

Facility Operations & Manufacturer Coordination

• Assist with scheduling CNC equipment usage, training sessions, and manufacturer access to available machinery.
• Serve as an initial point of contact for participating companies regarding equipment availability and basic operational questions.
• Help maintain organized workspaces and ensure equipment and materials are properly stored.
• Support general facility readiness and identify opportunities to improve operational workflows.
• Assist with coordinating equipment demonstrations, manufacturer visits, and technical workshops.

Inventory & Documentation

• Maintain inventory records for tooling, machine accessories, consumables, and maintenance supplies.
• Assist with tracking equipment usage, maintenance schedules, and operational activities.
• Help identify inventory shortages and communicate procurement needs to management.
• Maintain organized records of equipment manuals, maintenance procedures, and training documentation.

Safety & Compliance

• Support compliance with established machine shop safety procedures and facility operating requirements.
• Identify and report unsafe operating conditions, equipment misuse, or potential hazards.
• Assist with communicating equipment safety requirements to students, staff, and participating manufacturers.
• Help ensure appropriate safety procedures are followed during training and equipment demonstrations.
• Perform additional technical and operational duties as assigned, within the intern's training and authorization.

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field.
• Basic understanding of manufacturing processes, machining principles, or mechanical systems.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently on assigned tasks and collaboratively with staff and industry partners.
• Willingness to learn CNC equipment operation, maintenance procedures, and facility safety requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience with CNC machining or advanced manufacturing equipment.
• Familiarity with CNC programming, G-code, CAD/CAM software, or machining processes.
• Knowledge of preventive maintenance procedures and mechanical troubleshooting.
• Experience with technical documentation, SOP development, or equipment training.
• Familiarity with industrial safety practices and machine shop environments.

Learning Opportunities

The intern will gain hands-on experience in advanced manufacturing operations, CNC equipment support, preventive maintenance, technical training, and industry engagement. The position offers opportunities to collaborate with local manufacturers, strengthen technical and problem-solving skills, and gain practical experience supporting a shared manufacturing facility.