What are the responsibilities and job description for the Quality Engineer Co-Op position at United States Steel?
We are seeking a candidate pursuing a Metallurgical, Mechanical or Chemical Engineering degree that will:
Maintain safety standards, proper housekeeping, and using PPE in an industrial environment.
- Learn to balance responsibilities between project-based assignments and routine operational tasks (approximately 50/50 split).
- Participate in real-world projects such as commissioning equipment, developing SOPs/WIs, automating data validation, and improving quality KPIs.
- Explore metallurgical processes and testing methods, including hardness, tensile, and collapse testing, while understanding compliance requirements (API 5CT/5L/A370).
- Work on cost-reduction and yield-improvement initiatives, gaining exposure to alloy chemistry transitions and process optimization techniques.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams—planning, engineering, QA, operations, and maintenance—building strong teamwork and communication skills.
- Develop technical proficiency by operating instruments and equipment (spectrometers, microscopes, tensile testers) under guidance and with increasing independence.
- Enhance analytical and digital skills through exposure to data analysis tools (Excel, Minitab), programming (Python, VBA), and process modeling using ML/AI concepts.
- Learn fundamentals of metallurgical science, process control, and automation practices, including PID control and Gage R&R.
- Present weekly progress reports and updates in professional formats, improving reporting and presentation skills.
Requirements:
- Candidates must be a full-time student pursuing a Bachelor's Degree
- Candidates must be a current student and have completed their sophomore year by June 2026 and be in good academic standing
- Candidates must be available for two consecutive co-op semesters during Summer and Fall 2026.
- Be authorized to work in the US without sponsorship
Preferred Skills:
We are looking for motivated self-starters that can work in a fast paced, data-driven environment. The successful undergraduate will be an analytical problem solver, have an extremely high level of customer focus and a passion for process improvement. In addition, a successful intern will have:
- Demonstrates initiative and works effectively with minimal supervision.
- Maintains strong attendance and ensures timely presence to address tasks and issues.
- Completes assigned responsibilities with urgency and attention to detail.
- Collects, organizes, and interprets data using appropriate tools to support decision-making.
- Presents clear, coherent analyses and ideas to influence change and drive improvements.
- Works seamlessly with colleagues across multiple functions to achieve shared goals.
- Thrives in a fast-paced, industrial setting that may involve heat, noise, and dust.
- Prioritizes tasks and manages resources effectively to meet deadlines and performance targets.