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Automation/Controls Engineering Co-Op - Spring 2027

Flex · Libertyville, IL · $20.00–$34.00 an hour · Full time

Posted Sep 18, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about a project where something didn't work the first time. How did you figure out why?

What they are checking: Whether they troubleshoot patiently and learn from problems.

Tell me about a time you worked on a team with people from different backgrounds.

What they are checking: Whether they can collaborate across engineering and production teams.

What do you hope to learn during this co-op?

What they are checking: Whether they have clear goals, which shows how they will use the experience.

What would you do

You're testing a change and notice a safety interlock behaving oddly. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they stop and escalate safety concerns rather than continuing to test.

How do you ask for help when you're stuck without feeling like you're bothering people?

What they are checking: Whether they know how to use mentors well during a short assignment.

About the work

What experience do you have with PLCs, from classes, projects or work?

What they are checking: Whether they have enough PLC basics to help with testing and troubleshooting.

How would you troubleshoot a sensor that isn't giving the PLC the signal you expect?

What they are checking: Whether they can reason from wiring to device to input logically.

What are FAT and SAT, and why do they matter?

What they are checking: Whether they understand acceptance testing before and after equipment installation.

How would you validate timing logic for a buffer between two machines?

What they are checking: Whether they can think about sequencing and edge cases in automated systems.

How would you document an automation system so someone else could understand it?

What they are checking: Whether they value clear documentation, which is part of this co-op's work.

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The full job description

As published by Flex.

Flex is the diversified manufacturing partner of choice that helps market-leading brands design, build and deliver innovative products that improve the world. A career at Flex offers the opportunity to make a difference and invest in your growth in a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative environment. If you are excited about a role but don't meet every bullet point, we encourage you to apply and join us to create the extraordinary. Job Summary 

 To support our extraordinary teams who build great products and contribute to our growth, we’re looking to add an Automation/Controls Engineering Co-Op located in our Libertyville, IL site. Reporting to Process & Automation Engineering Team, the student will support PLC-based automation systems for molding, coiling and buffer integration while collaborating and working alongside Engineers and cross-functional teams. What a typical day looks like: • Assist with PLC testing and troubleshooting • Support FAT/SAT preparation and execution • Assist with sensor, actuator, and HMI troubleshooting • Support automation documentation and architecture reviews • Assist with buffer timing logic validation and system re-testing • Attend team meetings to support project work as needed Student qualities we’re seeking for this Co-Op assignment: • Currently enrolled BS student pursuing degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or Automation Engineering major • Basic PLC knowledge • Understanding of industrial sensors, actuators, and HMIs • Ability to read electrical schematics and understand control panels • Basic knowledge of automation architecture and timing/sequence logic • Understanding of FAT/SAT testing and system validation concepts • Strong troubleshooting, documentation, and teamwork skills • Previous manufacturing floor internship/co-op experience a plus! Co-Op Program Requirements: • Ability to work 40 hours/week (in person) during the Spring 2027 co-op assignment • Currently enrolled in 4-year accredited university • 3.0 GPA 

 Application Deadline: Applications for this job position will be accepted for at least five days following the job posting start date below and continuing until the end date below or until the position is filled. This posting may close sooner due to application volume. Job Posting Start Date 09-18-2026 Job Posting End Date 09-25-2026

 The base pay range for this position is provided below. The final base rate offered will be determined using job-related, non-discriminatory criteria, including but not limited to experience, qualifications, geographic location, education, external market data, and internal equity. Pay Range $20 - $34 Hourly Job Category Intern Relocation: Not eligible Is Sponsorship Available? No Flex is an Equal Opportunity Employer and employment selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. We do not discriminate based on: age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, pregnancy status, or any other status protected by law. We're happy to provide reasonable accommodations to those with a disability for assistance in the application process. Please email accessibility@flex.com and we'll discuss your specific situation and next steps (NOTE: this email does not accept or consider resumes or applications. This is only for disability assistance. To be considered for a position at Flex, you must complete the application process first).

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