About the Role
The Packaging Engineering Co-op will support packaging engineering efforts focused on continuous improvement, cost reduction, and new product launches. This role provides hands-on experience working with real production lines, cross-functional teams, and packaging systems used in a global manufacturing environment. This position will be based out of Owatonna, Minnesota.
Responsibilities
Provide day-to-day support for packaging change requests originating from production lines, including documentation updates and cross-functional coordination
Support material cost-reduction and operational efficiency initiatives through data gathering, analysis, and implementation support
Compile and finalize packaging part lists for the Owatonna and Ramsey facilities to ensure accuracy for procurement and production
Consolidate and organize packaging documentation into a standardized “Packaging Book” to improve usability, version control, and knowledge transfer
Identify and recommend common packaging components to reduce complexity, improve part reuse, and support standardization across product lines
Create and maintain missing part numbers, drawings, and 3D models to expand sourcing options and improve supplier flexibility
Assist with packaging design development, including CAD drawings and packing instructions, to support safe handling and consistent pack-out
Support packaging readiness for new product launches by verifying materials, documentation, and line implementation details prior to ramp-up
Qualifications
Undergraduate student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related degree
Expected graduation date between May 2027 – May 2028
Comfortable working both independently and on cross functional teams
Course experience with SolidWorks and CAD required; ArtiosCAD experience preferred
Strong problem-solving, organization, and communication skills
Requirements
Hybrid schedule: remote Mondays and Fridays; on-site Tuesdays–Thursdays at the Owatonna, MN facility
Available to work a full-time schedule (40 hours per week) for the duration of the co-op term
Availability to work a minimum of one academic semester; six-month commitment preferred
Willingness and ability to travel weekly to the Ramsey, MN site (preferred)
At Life Fitness / Hammer Strength, we think customer first, play as one team, and raise the bar on fitness innovation—in the gym and in every corner of our facilities. We persevere and get it done, with a clear purpose to inspire each other to live healthier lives. If you’re ready to bring out the best in people while powering the future of fitness manufacturing, we invite you to apply.
Want to take the next step in your career? Life Fitness / Hammer Strength takes pride in our talented employees and believes in providing opportunities for further growth and advancement. We encourage you to test your strengths, push your limits, and unleash your potential. If you feel the position is right for you, we invite you to apply. We’ll work with you closely to support you throughout the hiring process. If your CV/ resume shows that your skills and experience have synergy with the job description, then we’ll hop on a call to get to know you and your experience and discuss the position in more detail. If it’s not the right opportunity this time, we’ll always let you know.
Life Fitness / Hammer Strength offers a comprehensive package of benefits for full-time team members, including, but not limited to: a 401(k) savings plan with 4% employer match; medical, dental and vision insurance, parental, medical and military leaves of absence, paid time off, including 12 paid holidays throughout the calendar year, paid vacation days beginning at 13 days annually, paid sick leave as provided under state and local paid sick leave laws, company paid short-term disability and optional long-term disability, health savings account, health care and dependent care reimbursement accounts, employee and dependent life insurance and supplemental life and AD&D insurance, hospital indemnity; identity protection, legal services, adoption assistance, tuition assistance, commuter benefits, employee discounts, and an employee assistance program that includes free counseling sessions. Eligibility for benefits is governed by the applicable plan documents and policies.
Life Fitness / Hammer Strength is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. Life Fitness / Hammer Strength complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding employment, recruitment and hiring. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, disability, protected veteran status, or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.
There continues to be a significant increase in phishing attempts across all industries where fraudsters are impersonating real employees and sending fictitious job offers to applicants in a scheme to obtain sensitive information. Please note that Life Fitness/Hammer Strength will never ask for your financial information at any part of the interview process, including the post-offer stage, and will only correspond through “@lifefitness.com” or "@indoorcycling.com" domain email addresses or “lifefitness@myworkday.com” for U.S. opportunities.
Life Fitness/Hammer Strength does not accept applications, inquiries or solicitations from unapproved staffing agencies or vendors.