Industrial Design Co-op - Fall 2026

Crown Equipment Corporation

Kinston, NC

JOB DETAILS
SKILLS
3D Modeling, Acceptance Testing, Analysis Skills, CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing), Communication Skills, Construction, Cost Control, Documentation, Ergonomics, Field Trials, Forklift, Geometry, Graphics, Industrial Design, Interpersonal Skills, Manufacturing, Manufacturing/Industrial Processes, Photography, Presentation/Verbal Skills, Problem Solving Skills, Product Development, Product/Service Launch, Psychology, Rapid Prototyping, Research Skills, Test Plan/Schedule, Total Cost of Ownership, Writing Skills
LOCATION
Kinston, NC
POSTED
14 days ago

Company Description:

Crown Equipment Corporation is a leading innovator in world-class forklift and material handling equipment and technology. As one of the world's largest lift truck manufacturers, we are committed to providing the customer with the safest, most efficient and ergonomic lift truck possible to lower their total cost of ownership.

Job Posting External

Job Responsibilities:

As an Industrial Design Co-op, you will work under the guidance of Industrial Designers to conceptualize and develop new and innovative products and solutions. Tasks may include:

  • Research - Research and document user needs, product requirements, competitive products and industry trends. Conduct field research of users and products, including onsite observations, interviews, filming and task analysis. Follow-up with field research after product introduction.
  • Conceptual Design - Conceptualize new and innovative products and solutions, including creating aspects of form, aesthetics and physical/psychological interactions between users and products. Create sketches, renderings and models as necessary to convey design intent. Create layouts and test bucks as necessary to resolve basic user ergonomics. Determine material, construction, mechanisms, shape, color, surface finish and manufacturing processes in cooperation with Engineering and Manufacturing. Communicate design solutions to management and other team members.
  • Design Development & Support - Create 3-dimensional CAD models of appearance parts. Validate surface geometry with rapid prototype samples. Collaborate with Engineering and Manufacturing to ensure that manufacturability requirements are met. Assist with product graphics. Assist the Design staff with field testing to ensure user needs have been met. Assist Design staff in preparation for meetings and presentations.
  • Miscellaneous - Support project leaders with project documentation. Assist with product photography. Create and submit for design competitions. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

  • Be enrolled in a bachelor's degree program in Industrial Design.
  • Good written communication, verbal communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Analytical problem solving and judgment.
  • A personal means of reliable transportation.

Work Authorization:

Crown will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. This is not a position for which sponsorship will be provided. Individuals with temporary visas or who need sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future, are not eligible for hire.

No agency calls please.

EOE Veterans/Disabilities

About the Company

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Crown Equipment Corporation

Crown Equipment Corporation designs, manufactures, distributes, services and supports material handling products that provide customers with superior value. Since its entry into the material handling equipment industry in 1956, Crown has distinguished itself from competitors with exceptional product designs and a unique business approach based on vertical integration. When it says Crown on the outside, it's a Crown on the inside. Crown designs and manufactures 85 percent of its lift truck components, including key parts like motors, drive units, and electronic modules.

COMPANY SIZE
10,000 employees or more
INDUSTRY
Manufacturing - Other
FOUNDED
1945
WEBSITE
https://www.crown.com/