Mining Engineer Co-op

Cargill is a global company with 155,000 employees. For over 154 years, they have connected farmers with markets, customers with ingredients, and people and animals with the food they need. They utilize new technologies and dynamic insights to achieve this. Their commitment extends to building a stronger, more sustainable future.

This co-op opportunity is within Cargill's Protein and Salt (CPS) business unit, located in either Lansing, NY or Cleveland, OH, at underground salt mine locations. The program is designed to provide practical experience and prepare students for their future careers.

Responsibilities :

Co-ops will gain experience in either Operations Leadership or Maintenance & Reliability Engineering. The role offers exposure to both the technical and management aspects of the mining industry. Specific responsibilities will vary depending on the chosen path, but potential areas include :

Mining Engineers : Work both underground and on the surface, supporting infrastructure and bringing road de-icing salt to customers. This includes learning mining techniques such as surveying and mapping, room and pillar mining operations, mineral processing, water management, materials handling, and mining safety best practices. They will collaborate with team members and lead their own projects.

Electrical Engineers : Gain exposure to high-voltage power infrastructure and control systems. They will learn to safely operate and automate equipment, focusing on electrical reliability for production and communications. This includes working with electric-powered mining equipment, hoisting systems, pumps, conveyor belts, and screening equipment.

Production Management Engineers : Lead people, processes, and products in a mining environment. This involves direct supervision of operators, participation in daily production meetings, and handling all aspects of MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) regulations and compliance. They will also focus on process optimization, equipment reliability, and may manage capital projects. Team development and employee relations are key responsibilities.

Process / Project Engineers : Involved in business case development, vendor selection, budget management, and project management for major projects and improvements. This includes process optimization, safety, quality, infrastructure, and energy use. They'll participate in innovation processes, idea generation, and reliability-centered design.

Duration : 7-8 months (May / June – December 2025)

Compensation : $25.00 – $34.70 per hour (depending on graduation date and eligibility for full-time employment).

Location : Lansing, NY or Cleveland, OH (relocation assistance is offered to qualified candidates).

Housing : Housing assistance and relocation reimbursement are available for qualifying candidates. Daily transportation is the responsibility of the co-op.

Environment : The work environment is team-oriented, fast-paced, and hands-on, emphasizing employee engagement, inclusion, and innovation. It is physically demanding, requiring moderate exertion, bending, lifting (up to 50+ lbs occasionally, 10-25 lbs frequently), and exposure to elements like heat, cold, and salt dust. The ability to work in an underground environment is mandatory.

Opportunities : High-performing co-ops may be offered a second co-op or a full-time position. Access to volunteer opportunities and paid time off for volunteering are also provided.

Cargill offers a comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, mental health and wellbeing programs, a digital learning library, and housing and relocation assistance (where applicable). Medical and other benefits are also offered, depending on the position and hours worked.

Networking and Development :

Cargill provides extensive networking opportunities, mentorship programs, and consistent support from university recruiting staff, mentors, colleagues, and supervisors. They have several Business Resource Groups (BRGs) to foster diversity and inclusion.

Required Qualifications :

• Ability to work in an underground environment.
• Currently pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in Mining Engineering (MinE), Mechanical Engineering (ME), Electrical Engineering (EE), Industrial Engineering (IE), or a related engineering discipline.
• Degree completion between December 2025 and May 2028.
• Legal right to work in the U.S. (not solely based on a student visa or third-party sponsored visa).
• Ability to work effectively with diverse teams.
• Geographic flexibility and willingness to relocate to Cleveland, OH or Lansing, NY.
• Ability to complete a 7-8 month co-op.
• High degree of initiative and resourcefulness.

Preferred Qualifications :

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