Job Description
R&D Engineer Intern Mequon, WI | Department: Engineering
| Reports to: Product Manager
About Hayes Performance Systems: If you're looking for a role where your work has a visible impact, Hayes is the place for you. Hayes Performance Systems is a trusted leader in precision engineering and manufacturing, serving industries like
powersports, cycling, agriculture, construction, and government. Since 1946, we've built high-performance braking and suspension systems known worldwide for their quality and reliability. In 2023, we expanded through the acquisition of ACI Industries, strengthening our capabilities in complex machining and precision assembly.
At Hayes, we don't just make parts -
we make performance possible. We value teamwork, problem-solving, and continuous improvement, and we're looking for people who want to grow with us.
Why You'll Love Working Here: - Flexible hours to support school schedules or part-time availability
- Mentorship and hands-on experience in prototyping, testing, and R&D
- Exposure to lab and product testing, fixture design, data analysis, and engineering processes
- Holiday Parties and Employee Events throughout the year
- A supportive, team-focused culture where your ideas are valued and your work makes an impact
The Opportunity: We're hiring an
R&D Intern to join our engineering team. In this role, you'll assist with prototype development, testing, and documentation, helping turn engineering concepts into real-world solutions. You'll play an important role in supporting experiments, improving processes, and learning from experienced engineers.
What You'll Do: - Assist with the setup and execution of prototype tests
- Help build, maintain, and organize test fixtures and lab equipment
- Collect and document test data, observations, and results
- Support basic engineering calculations and analyses as directed
- Help implement minor updates to prototypes under engineer guidance
- Assist with assembly, maintenance, or installation of prototype components
- Support research and evaluation of new technologies or testing methods
- Collaborate with engineers and team members on R&D projects
- Crosstrain across different engineering tasks as opportunities arise
- Follow lab safety protocols, testing standards, and documentation procedures
What You Bring: - Availability to work 10-20 hours/week during the school year and full-time in the summer
- Local housing and transportation in the Mequon, WI area
- Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university, preferably with sophomore or junior standing, pursuing a degree in Engineering or related field
- Mechanical aptitude and interest in hands-on prototyping and testing
- Familiarity with 3D modeling software (PTC Creo preferred) and Microsoft Excel
- Basic knowledge of machining, lab, or testing equipment
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
- Reliability, curiosity, and a passion for innovation
You'll thrive in this role if you enjoy experimenting, supporting hands-on engineering projects, and helping turn ideas into high-performance solutions.
Ready to Build Performance? Apply today and join a company where your curiosity and skills help develop products that power industries worldwide.
Job Tags
Full time, Part time, Summer work, Local area, Worldwide, Flexible hours,