Jobs › Sonoco

Engineering - Internship

Sonoco · West Chicago, IL · Full time

Posted Sep 1, 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

Why are you interested in an engineering internship in packaging manufacturing?

What they are checking: Whether they have real interest in plant work, which predicts how engaged they will be.

Tell me about a project where you had to figure out something you had never been taught.

What they are checking: Whether they can teach themselves and take initiative, which interns need on real projects.

Tell me about a time you worked on a team that disagreed. How was it resolved?

What they are checking: Whether they handle disagreement constructively and keep the work moving.

What kind of feedback helps you the most, and how do you act on it?

What they are checking: Whether they are coachable, which matters in a program built around real-time feedback.

What would you do

You have 12 weeks. How would you plan your project so you can show real results by the end?

What they are checking: Whether they can scope work, set milestones and finish rather than run out of time.

How would you build trust with operators and mechanics who have been there for years?

What they are checking: Whether they show respect and listen, which decides whether the floor will help them.

How would you share your project results with plant leadership at the end of the summer?

What they are checking: Whether they can communicate clearly and lead with impact to busy leaders.

About the work

If a machine was running slower than its rated speed, how would you start figuring out why?

What they are checking: Whether they think to observe, measure and look for bottlenecks before suggesting fixes.

What safety rules would you expect to follow on a manufacturing floor?

What they are checking: Whether they take PPE and plant safety seriously from day one.

Which engineering tools or software are you most comfortable with?

What they are checking: Whether they bring practical skills like CAD, Excel or data analysis they can use on projects.

Practice this interview out loud.

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The full job description

As published by Sonoco.

From a small family business to a multi-billion-dollar global company, Sonoco has been changing the face of products and packaging since 1899 — all while keeping the heart of “People Build Businesses” alive. Our talented people are at the core of our growth, constantly reinventing the Sonoco wheel with brilliant solutions every year. Today we are a world leader in global packaging solutions with diversified operations in over 34 countries. We're extremely proud of our portfolio of brands, our achievements in sustainability and industrialization and the groundbreaking work accomplished by our people. Sonoco’s internship program immerses students in the manufacturing and packaging industries, providing a hands-on experience that fosters both personal and professional growth. Available in approximately 25 U.S locations, Sonoco’s internship program will equip you with on-the-job learning experiences, plant tours, engagement with Sonoco leadership, and real-time feedback and networking opportunities. Preparing you for your next career steps, a Sonoco internship provides opportunities to work alongside industry experts and peers in manufacturing, process engineering, quality, safety, commercial/sales, finance/accounting, supply chain management and other fields. In a Sonoco internship, you can expect: • 12 week paid internship: salary, monthly • Hands-on projects alongside industry experts • Business knowledge from across Sonoco’s enterprise • Valuable networking opportunities with business leaders • Activities with other interns and Emerging Leader associates • Housing and activity stipend provided • Relocation assistance provided (mileage reimbursement and U-Haul trailer) This internship role will be a part of our Consumer Packaging America Division, located in West Chicago, Illinois. To become an intern with Sonoco, here are a few things we’re looking for: • Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree or master's degree program with a concentration in Industrial or Mechanical Engineering. • Previous internship experience (preferably in Manufacturing or functional area) • Proven leadership experience • Technical aptitude • Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills Compensation: Monthly base salary for Undergraduate Business/Non-Technical Degrees: • Senior $4,350 • Junior $4,100 • Sophomore $3,900 • Freshman $3,700 Monthly base salary for Undergraduate Engineering/Technical Degrees: • Senior $4,800 • Junior $4,600 • Sophomore $4,300 • Freshman $4,100 Monthly base salary for Graduate Degree Business/Non-Technical: • Senior $5,100 Monthly base salary for Graduate Degree Engineering/Technical: Senior $5,700 At Sonoco Products Company, we offer a comprehensive total rewards package, including competitive pay and benefits. *Benefits listed below are for employees located in the U.S. Specific benefits and wellbeing programs may vary depending on your location (within the U.S. or global), or if you are a union employee. Benefits • Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options • 401(k) retirement plan with company match • Wellbeing tools and resources to support holistic health, including an Employee Assistance Program with a variety of services • Paid time off and holidays to recreate, rejuvenate and care for the health of yourself and family • Variety of company paid and voluntary employee-paid insurance plans including life, personal accident, and disability insurance • Tuition reimbursement We are an equal opportunity employer, and we strictly prohibit and do not tolerate discrimination against employees, applicants or any other covered persons because of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any legally protected characteristic.

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