Application & Tech Center Co-Op

GEA Group, founded in Germany in 1881, is a global leader in engineering solutions, serving industries such as food and beverage, pharma, dairy, and more. With over 18,000 employees worldwide and a strong U.S. presence since 1929, GEA combines the heritage of a well-established company with the innovation of a forward-thinking industry leader. At GEA, we’re not just building equipment, we’re building lasting careers with an average employee tenure range from 8 + years, reflecting the strong culture, growth opportunities, and support we provide. Responsibilities / Tasks The Application & Technology Center (ATC) Engineering Co-op is a temporary work-and-learn opportunity for students interested in food, beverage, biotechnology, and process engineering. Working alongside the Senior Biotechnologist, New Food Technical Director, and Test Center Manager, the co-op will gain hands-on experience in pilot plant operations, process development, and equipment troubleshooting. The co-op will support customer test trials by assisting with equipment setup, operation, process monitoring, data collection, and technical documentation. Additional responsibilities include equipment cleaning and maintenance, test preparation, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. This role is highly hands-on and requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn. The co-op will also complete one or more engineering projects focused on process improvement, automation, equipment enhancement, or application data generation, contributing to the capabilities and efficiency of the ATC. The ideal candidate is organized, self-motivated, and interested in pursuing a career in food, beverage, biotechnology, or process engineering. This position is expected to last approximately eight months, spanning one academic semester and the summer term. Flexible scheduling may be available during the semester for students attending classes; however, a minimum availability of 20 hours per week is required. Full-time availability is expected during the summer term. Essential Duties/Responsibilities: Completes major project to support new ideation, install an updated workflow, or an automation improvement that will enhance the ATC. Monitor the operation of pilot plant equipment in conformance with test requirements (bioreactors, fermenters, thermal processing systems (UHT), vacuum mixers, dryers, membrane filtration, aseptic processes, special equipment, utility systems, etc.) making appropriate adjustments per test requirements Monitor/repair/assemble test station equipment as directed Clean pilot plant and its equipment to maintain good operating order Assist in preparing shipping requests, recording shipments, documenting inventory of plant consumables and safety equipment Comply with internal and external QHSE requirements (Including: Training, Waste disposal, record keeping, etc.) Collect and organize data on operating…