Product Development Intern

About the Role

The JM Family College Internship Program offers meaningful work experiences tied to academic programs. Interns will actively contribute to their team's success, learn about JM Family's companies and culture, and gain new skills through learning opportunities and networking events. The ideal candidate will be available to work full-time during the Summer Internship Program (May 24th, 2027 - July 30th, 2027). Interns will engage in meaningful work, gain insights into specific projects, and contribute to various department initiatives. They will learn about JM Family's culture, including core values: Consideration, Cooperation, Communication, Innovation, and Accountability.

As a Product Development Intern with Southeast Toyota's Product Development department, you will apply academic knowledge in a professional environment, gaining hands-on experience supporting automotive product development. You will contribute to meaningful product- and organization-based projects that support accessory launches for dealers and create efficiencies for the team.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete at least one product-based project, such as developing a working prototype from a general concept or creating tools needed to support an accessory launch.
• Complete at least one organization-based project focused on improving team efficiency, such as developing digital product-comparison tools, using scanned mesh files to create 3D vehicle models, or developing a storage organization and inventory system.
• Support the development and evaluation of automotive components, including prototype development, competitive vehicle benchmarking, and commodity-level standards for automotive accessories.
• Assist with vehicle fit-up data collection, teardown and cost analysis, and the development of commodity cost models for vehicle accessories.
• Review Supplier Corrective Action Reports for root cause definition, interim containment, and permanent corrective action.
• Provide weekly project progress updates while managing supporting activities such as attending meetings and designing and 3D printing placement aids.
• Follow applicable safety and quality policies and procedures and support site and department compliance objectives.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• This is a full-time position with flexible working arrangements depending on the business need.
• Microsoft Excel experience, including data entry and basic formulas.
• Power Apps and CAN experience are preferred.

Qualifications

• Actively enrolled in a bachelor’s, master’s, or other degree-seeking program at an accredited college or university, with a focus in a relevant field. Candidates in related fields will also be considered.
• Must have completed at least one semester of coursework.
• Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a similar engineering program and maintaining a satisfactory grade point average.
• Sophomore-level coursework or higher, with a general understanding of mechanical components and systems gained through coursework.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and analytical skills, with the ability to manage priorities, time constraints, workflow, and complexity effectively.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and a demonstrated interest in automotive technology.
• Previous automotive industry experience is preferred but not required.