Technical Engineering Intern (CNC Programming)

Technical Engineering Intern (CNC Programming)

At Ashley, inspiring the love of home is at the heart of everything we do. As the world's largest manufacturer of home furnishings, we're more than a business we're a family driven by innovation, competitiveness, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. We persevere through challenges, push beyond the status quo, and constantly seek better ways to deliver an exceptional customer experience. Our solutions-first mindset and dedication to growth are why Ashley remains #1 in our industry.

If you're ready to grow, you've come to the right place. With a true "Growth Mindset," Ashley Furniture invests in developing future leaders and helps every team member learn from the best in the business.

We're offering an exciting opportunity for engineering students to gain hands-on experience in CNC programming and manufacturing operations. This technical internship will expose you to real-world production environments, advanced manufacturing technologies, and the opportunity to work alongside experienced engineers and machinists who are passionate about developing the next generation of manufacturing talent.

Responsibilities

• Learn and apply CNC programming principles for various machine types (mills, routers, lathes, and specialized equipment)
• Create, modify, and optimize CNC programs using CAM software and G-code
• Assist with programming setup, toolpath development, and cycle time optimization
• Support the development of work instructions and setup documentation for CNC operations
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers and production teams on machining projects
• Assist with troubleshooting CNC programs and making real-time adjustments
• Participate in machine setup verification and first-article inspection processes
• Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and quality
• Work on assigned engineering projects related to CNC programming, tooling, or process optimization
• Analyze machining processes and recommend improvements for efficiency and quality
• Create technical documentation including programs, setup sheets, and process guidelines
• Assist with fixture design and tooling recommendations
• Receive mentorship from experienced CNC programmers and manufacturing engineers
• Participate in training sessions on CAM software, manufacturing processes, and industry best practices
• Attend departmental meetings and contribute ideas for process improvements
• Gain exposure to various manufacturing technologies and equipment
• Follow all shop safety procedures and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Verify program accuracy through simulation and test runs
• Support quality control activities and dimensional verification processes
• Maintain organized work areas and documentation
• Complete special projects and assignments as requested
• Participate in intern program activities and presentations
• Demonstrate our company's Core Values in all interactions
• Present final project results to engineering leadership

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a degree program in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, or related technical field
• Sophomore, Junior, or Senior standing preferred
• Minimum 3.0 GPA preferred
• Coursework or experience in CNC machining or manufacturing processes
• CAD/CAM software (Mastercam, Fusion 360, SolidWorks CAM, or similar)
• Engineering drawing interpretation and GD&T
• Basic understanding of machining operations, cutting tools, and materials
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Familiarity with AutoCAD or SolidWorks a plus

This position is located in an active industrial manufacturing and distribution center with moderate to high noise levels, temperature variations, and material handling equipment in operation. The role may require extended periods of standing or walking on concrete floors and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses and steel-toed boots. The fast-paced environment involves time-sensitive and safety sensitive operations and may include various shift schedules to support production and distribution needs.

Pay: $18.00-$21.00 Depending on year of schooling

Our Core Values:

• Honesty & Integrity: Acts with transparency, discretion, and ethical judgment. Trusted to handle sensitive information and provide accurate, unbiased insights.
• Dirty Fingernail: Takes full accountability for outcomes, not just tasks. Inspects details, ensures data accuracy, and follows through to completion.
• Continuous Improvement: Actively seeks better ways to improve templates, tools, and processes. Learns from prior initiatives and embeds lessons into standard work.
• Growth & Results Focus: Understands how transformation initiatives drive growth, cost reduction, and profitability. Keeps work aligned to enterprise priorities.
• Culture of Leadership: Leads through influence, reliability, and example. Builds trust across functions and supports leaders at every level.
• Customer-Centric & Boundaryless: Works across silos for the greater good of the organization. Ensures outputs meet the needs of executives, initiative owners, and teams.
• Operational Excellence: Demonstrates strong organizational discipline, attention to detail, and the ability to translate ambiguity into clear, executable tools.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and provide a drug-free working environment. While Ashley appreciates the interest of all candidates only those meeting specific position requirements may be contacted. This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment. The company reserves the right to revise or change job duties and responsibilities as the need arises.