Summer Intern - Mechanical
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 12, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 5, 2026. Union Pacific scores A on the Alion truth index.
Reference Number: 5305
Department: Mechanical
Closing Date: Apply early as this job may be filled at any time.
If you wish to solicit an employee referral for this position, please ensure the employee submits the referral prior to submitting your application.
Description
Union Pacific is one of America's premier transportation and logistics companies, linking 23 states in the western two-thirds of the country and serving many of the fastest-growing U.S. cities. We're looking for high-energy, analytical problem solvers who value teamwork and want to make a difference in the transportation industry. At Union Pacific, we move fast, think smart, and innovate to solve real-world challenges and we invite you to be part of that momentum through a meaningful internship experience.
The Mechanical Department intern will support key projects focused on locomotive and railcar operations, process improvement, and industrial engineering. Interns will be assigned to one of Union Pacific’s major locomotive or railcar facilities, where they will gain hands-on experience in the transportation industry while continuing their education. Possible locations include Nebraska, Idaho, Illinois, Oregon, Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, or California.
Projects may include developing standard work documentation, mapping and improving value streams, implementing shop process improvements, solving component failure issues, and applying Lean or Six Sigma methodologies. Interns will collaborate with shop employees and department leaders, manage assignments from start to finish, and contribute to operational efficiency and safety. The role involves full-time work during the summer, with potential for non-traditional hours and travel to assigned facilities.
As an intern, you will build knowledge and experience in our core business groups and their vision, business objectives, processes, systems, and services. You will have extensive contact with peers and interaction with senior leaders. There will also be an opportunity to put leadership, technical skills, and business knowledge to immediate use through high-value project assignments.
The estimated wage for this position is between $23-$28 per hour. Final rate of pay will be based on several factors including year of study, qualifications, experience, and internal equity.
Accountabilities
- Learn core business processes and systems within department operations
- Assist with process improvement projects at locomotive or railcar facilities
- Develop standard work documentation and value stream maps to support operational efficiency
- Apply Lean or Six Sigma concepts to real-world business challenges
- Collaborate with shop employees and department leaders to implement solutions
- Build and strengthen a network of professional contacts across the company
- Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications - Required
- College credits equivalent to one (1) year or more toward an undergraduate degree
- Valid driver's license
- Proficient Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) skills
- Intermediate verbal and written communication skills
- Intermediate organization, prioritization and time/project management skills
Qualifications - Preferred
- College credits equivalent to two (2) years or more toward an undergraduate degree
- GPA of 2.7 or higher
- Currently pursuing a degree in a related field such as Aerospace Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Engineering Management, Industrial Management, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering or Supply Chain Management
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a willingness to ask questions and learn
- Ability to think critically, evaluate various options and make decisions
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Experience working outdoors in variable weather conditions (professional, personal, and volunteer experience may be considered)
Physical and Mental Job Requirements
- This position requires extended periods of sitting and extended hours in front of computer screens
- Maintain concentration, focuses on tasks and can make timely decisions
Work Conditions
- Authorized to work in the United States without company sponsorship
- 18 years of age or older
What we offer:
- Housing, Transportation, and Relocation stipends for qualified candidates
- A strengths-based, engagement-focused, and performance-oriented culture
- A flexible and hybrid work environment that allows you to work on-site and from home (as the job allows)
- On-site cafeteria (with employee discount), fitness center (free to employees), federal credit union, all in Union Pacific Center headquarters building in Omaha, Nebraska
- Employee Assistance Programs
- Competitive compensation
- Engaging activities with other interns and educational visits to Union Pacific facilities