Intern, Vision Systems

On-site at Quest Diagnostics 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.