Intern, Vision Systems

On-site at Quest Diagnostic's Tampa Lab

Duration: Project-based (4 - 6 months); to start in late May 2026

Hours: Full-time for the summer and part-time for the fall semester (flexible around academic schedule)

Project Overview

Quest Diagnostics are seeking a highly motivated engineering student to support a hands-on automation project focused on developing and deploying a vision systems capable to detect and recognize patterns and perform analytics. This project will involve working with programming and assembly a vision system hardware for image processing, and automation controls. The student will collaborate with engineering and operations teams to design, program, test, and validate vision-based counting solutions that improve accuracy, efficiency, and reliability of instruments.

What the Student Will Gain

* Real-world experience deploying vision systems in production.

* Practical exposure to industrial automation and manufacturing operations.

* Opportunity to contribute to a production-ready solution, not just a lab exercise.

* Strong resume-building project experience in automation, vision, and coding

Key Responsibilities

* Design and development of vision systems for part detection and counting.

* Configure and calibrate cameras, lenses, lighting, and sensors for optimal image capture.

* Develop and test image processing algorithms for object detection, counting, and validation.

* Write, debug, and maintain code for vision and automation integration.

* Interface vision systems with automation equipment (PLCs, conveyors, triggers, I/O).

* Collect and analyze performance data to improve accuracy and robustness.

* Support system testing in a live production environment.

* Document system designs, code, test results, and operating procedures

Required Skills & Qualifications

* Currently pursuing a degree in Engineering (Mechatronics, Electrical, Automation, Robotics, Computer Engineering, or related field).

* Understanding of vision system concepts (image acquisition, lighting, resolution, contrast, etc).

* Experience or coursework in programming, such as:

* Python, C/C++, or similar

* Familiarity with image processing libraries (e.g., OpenCV) is a plus

* Fundamental knowledge of automation systems, including:

* Sensors and actuators

* Basic PLC concepts or industrial I/O

* Ability to troubleshoot technical issues methodically.

* Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

Preferred / Nice-to-Have Skills

* Experience with vision system platforms (Cognex, Keyence, Omron, Basler, etc.).

* Exposure to PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar).

* Knowledge of camera calibration, lighting techniques, and optical setups.

* Familiarity with robotics or automation.

* Understanding of statistical analysis or accuracy validation.

* Experience working on hands-on engineering or capstone projects.