Industrial Software Engineer Co-op (E&A)

Job Description

Job Description

SMS group Inc. – Electrical & Automation Engineering, Level-2 System

Summary

The SMS group Industrial Software Engineer Co‑Op program provides an immersive, semester‑long experience working on real Level‑2 Automation Systems, which are mission‑critical supervisory and advanced process control systems that optimize production across the metals industry.

As a Co‑Op, you will work side‑by‑side with experienced engineers on full‑stack software development, data analysis, industrial communication, and system testing. You will gain practical understanding of how mathematical models, automation logic, and production data come together to improve real‑time operations in modern steel and metals facilities.

This role is designed for students who want meaningful engineering responsibilities and who are ready to contribute directly to engineering projects.

This Co‑Op is an on‑site, in‑person position at our corporate office. Students are expected to work full‑time (40 hours/week) on location for the duration of the Co‑Op rotation.

Who we are

At SMS group, our people are our greatest asset. We offer an entrepreneurial environment that promotes a culture of innovation, growth, and inclusion. We offer company events, activities, and opportunities to participate in charitable initiatives that benefit the communities where we work.

What you'll do

Key Responsibilities

Note: Responsibilities will be tailored based on the student’s skill set, development goals, and project needs.

Software Development Support

• Implement non‑critical software components in C#/.NET (helper functions, data parsers, unit tests).
• Contribute small features or enhancements to desktop/web‑based UIs.
• Assist in configuring communication interfaces between Level‑2 automation and other automation systems.
• Explore AI‑assisted development tools to accelerate engineering tasks.

Data Analysis & Modeling Support

• Write, optimize, and debug SQL queries to extract, visualize and analyze process data.
• Validate integrity of Level‑2 data to ensure clean, reliable inputs for process models.
• Document and review parameters used in the mathematical models.

Data Analysis & Modeling Support

• Write, optimize, and debug SQL queries to extract, visualize and analyze process data.
• Validate integrity of Level‑2 data to ensure clean, reliable inputs for process models.
• Document and review parameters used in the mathematical models.

Testing & Documentation

• Execute functional and integration tests for Level‑2 system components (e.g., order management, material tracking, reporting).
• Review and update technical documentation, including system requirements, design specs, and user guides.
• Participate in project lifecycle events such as Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs).

Technical Exposure

• Languages & Frameworks: C#, .NET, optional Python
• AI-Based Tools: Claude Code, GitHub Copilot
• Databases: MS SQL Server
• Industrial Communication: TCP/IP protocols, OPC DA/UA
• Version Control: Git
• Visualization/BI Tools: Grafana, Metabase

Learning & Growth Opportunities

• Direct exposure to mission‑critical industrial automation systems
• Mentorship from senior engineers and technical specialists
• Real‑world Agile development experience
• Hands-on practice with AI‑assisted coding workflows
• Strong foundation for careers in industrial automation, advanced process control, or software engineering within the metals industry

What you'll need

Minimum Eligibility Requirements

To join the program, students must:

• Be enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s program in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a related STEM field.
• Have completed at least two years of college coursework at the start of the Co-Op term.
• Be available for a full-time Co-Op rotation lasting one full semester or longer.

Ideal Candidate Profile

Education:

1. Currently enrolled in STEM-focused degree programs in any engineering discipline, physics, mathematics, or other related fields; with some coding experience (academic coursework or personal projects).

Core Competencies:

1. Strong analytical and problem‑solving ability
2. Willingness to collaborate in a technical, team‑oriented environment
3. Effective verbal and written communication
4. Curiosity about automation, industrial systems, and process optimization

Preferred Technical Skills:

1. Experience with Object‑Oriented Programming (C#, Java, Python)
2. Basic understanding of SQL and relational databases
3. Familiarity with Git or similar version control tools

Career Path After Internship

Post-Co-Op Career Pathways

Students who excel in this program often continue their career journey with SMS. High‑performing Co‑Ops may be considered for future full‑time opportunities within the Level‑2 Engineering team, where they can continue contributing to advanced automation and process control systems.

What we do

SMS group is the leading partner in the world of metals. We are an original equipment supplier offering comprehensive maintenance and spare part services for metals production, continuous casting and rolling (flat and long products), tubes, welded pipes, forging, non-ferrous technology, and heat treatment plants - all from a single source.

SMS group Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, gender identity or other categories protected by law.

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