Program Overview
Cole-TAC’s internship program is paid. We offer both summer and year-round placements, with flexible hours that can be built around your class schedule. Interns take on real, projectbased work and are guided by members of our team throughout the internship.
program length
Summer or year-round (flexible)
where interns work
On-Site - Rapid City, SD
Quick Apply
Pick an internship and upload your resume to get started.
Industrial Engineering Intern
Overview
Essential Functions
- Observe and document current production workflows and identify opportunities for improvement.
- Conduct time studies and analyze production data to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies.
- Assist in redesigning workstation layouts and material flow to reduce waste and improve throughput.
- Support the development of standard operating procedures for production processes.
- Help track key production metrics and prepare summaries for the team.
Qualifications
- Currently pursuing a degree in Industrial Engineering or a closely related field
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing or Six Sigma principles
- Comfortable working with data and spreadsheets (Excel or similar) to analyze processes
- Basic understanding of manufacturing workflows and production processes
- Strong analytical and problem-solving mindset
- Good communication skills and ability to work alongside both engineers and floor staff
- Self-starter attitude; able to take a rough problem statement and run with it
- Comfortable spending time on the production floor, observing and measuring real workflows
- Experience with process mapping or CAD tools is a plus
- Familiarity with inventory or ERP systems is a plus
Why Intern With Us
- Paid internship — summer-only or year-round options available
- Flexible hours built around your class schedule
- Real, project-based work — not busywork
Mechanical Engineering Intern
Overview
Essential Functions
- Assist in designing and modeling components and fixtures using CAD software.
- Build and test prototypes to evaluate fit, function, and durability.
- Support production, troubleshooting, and process improvements on the shop floor.
Qualifications
- Currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field
- Proficiency with CAD software (SolidWorks)
- Solid grasp of engineering fundamentals: statics, materials, basic mechanisms, and manufacturing processes
- Comfortable working with hand tools and shop equipment, or eager to learn
- Strong problem-solving mindset — comfortable iterating through prototypes rather than expecting a perfect first design
- Good communication skills and the ability to work alongside both engineers and floor staff
- Self-starter attitude; able to take a rough problem statement and run with it
- Experience with 3D printing
- Basic exposure to electronics, wiring, or microcontrollers (Arduino, Raspberry Pi, etc.)
- Familiarity with pneumatics or basic automation concepts
Why Intern With Us
- Paid internship — summer-only or year-round options available
- Flexible hours built around your class schedule
- Real, project-based work — not busywork
about us
About Cole-TAC
We design and build rugged, American-made gear used by professionals and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Our production team takes pride in craftsmanship, consistency, and quality – and we’re looking for people who want to build a skill and grow with us.
founded
2015
headquarters
Rapid City, SD
team size
45
Why Intern at Cole-TAC
Competitive Pay
Paid internships, with pay based on role.
Mentorship
Every intern is paried with a dedicated team mentor.
Flexible Schedule
Work hours are built around your class schedule, with options for summer-only or year-round involvement.
Hand-On Projects
Real project ownership from day one, not busywork.
Full-Time Pathway
Top-performing interns are considered for full-time roles.
Team Events
Socials and team outings throughout the program.
Schools We've Interned From
We’ve welcomed interns from schools including:
II
“At Cole-TAC, I learned that engineering isn’t just about designing—it’s about solving real problems.”
– Tanner, Mechanical Engineering (Class of 2026)
Intern / Part-time, May 2024 – May 2026