Product Engineer Intern (Merchandising) - June 2026

Staples Business

Posted 8 days ago

Internship

Framingham, Massachusetts

In Person

Smart Summary

The intern will support the Product Engineering team in the development, testing, and validation of private brand products, contributing to active product programs through engineering analysis and supplier collaboration. Responsibilities include assisting with material evaluation, design reviews, developing test plans, executing testing, and supporting root cause analysis for quality issues.

Must Have Skills for ATS

Product Development

Testing

Validation

Engineering Analysis

Supplier Collaboration

Product Design

Custom Testing

Manufacturing Support

Material Evaluation

Design Reviews

Engineering Specifications

Bills of Materials

Test Fixture Design

Root Cause Analysis

Corrective Action

Technical Drawings

Job Description

Staples is business-to-business. You’re what binds us together. 

We’re searching for you: fresh talent with new ideas, innovation, passion, and drive to bring to Staples. We have student and graduate opportunities where you’ll help the Staples, Inc. organization be more successful and productive while building a purposeful career. Whether you are looking for a summer internship, co-op, or an entry-level role, we’ll help you develop the technical and soft skills you need to thrive in the future. 

Position Overview:
The Product Engineer Intern (Merchandising) will support the Staples Brands Group Product Engineering team in the development, testing, and validation of private brand products. This role provides hands-on exposure to real products in development and production, working closely with Product Engineers and cross-functional partners to support engineering analysis, testing, and supplier collaboration. 

The intern will contribute to active product programs and gain experience in product development, custom testing, and manufacturing support within a consumer products environment. 

What You'll Be Doing:

Product Development 

  • Assist with evaluation of materials, construction methods, and manufacturability considerations 

  • Participate in design reviews and provide engineering input related to performance, cost, and quality 

  • Support Product Engineers in translating product requirements into engineering specifications, drawings, and bills of materials (BOMs) 

Testing & Validation 

  • Design and build custom test fixtures (physical or conceptual) to enable repeatable and reliable product testing 

  • Develop and document test plans for custom or nonstandard products, including test methods, acceptance criteria, and sample requirements 

  • Execute testing per defined test plans and assist with collecting, organizing, and analyzing test data 

Manufacturing & Supplier Support 

  • Assist Product Engineers in reviewing supplier documentation such as control plans, work instructions, and process flows 

  • Support root cause analysis and corrective action activities for quality or performance issues under guidance 

  • Gain exposure to global sourcing and supplier manufacturing processes supporting Staples' private brand products 

What’s Needed – Basic Qualifications: 

  • Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field 

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills 

  • Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and test data 

  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suites 

What’s Needed - Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Coursework or experience in product design, materials, manufacturing processes, or quality engineering 

  • Exposure to CAD tools or basic fixture design 

  • Knowledge of design for 3D printing and use of 3D printers 

  • Skills in communicating technical subjects to non-technical cross-functional partners 

What You Will Gain - Learning Opportunities: 

  • Through this internship, the Product Engineer Intern will: 

  • Gain hands-on experience supporting real, customer-facing products in development and production 

  • Build skills within practical application of engineering design, Six Sigma, DFM/DFA, and learn “How It’s Made” across many different manufacturing techniques 

  • Learn how Product Engineering partners with Category, Sourcing, Quality, and Brand teams in a large consumer products organization 


Staples is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.

Staples Business

For nearly 40 years, Staples has been a trusted leader in delivering end-to-end workplace solutions for consumers and businesses of all sizes across a broad range of industries. The company provides a comprehensive portfolio of products, strategic solutions, and services including print and marketing, shipping, technology, and travel. Its specialized assortment includes high-quality office supplies, janitorial products, technology, furniture, and breakroom essentials, all supported by best-in-class supply chain capabilities and a dedicated team of experts committed to making the workday easier. Headquartered near Boston, Massachusetts, Staples operates throughout North America via direct B2B sales, e-commerce, and more than 900 retail stores. To learn more, visit your local U.S. Staples store, download the Staples app, explore Staples.com or StaplesBusiness.com, or follow @Staples on social media.

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