Automation Engineering Intern

Job Description

Automation Engineering Intern

The Automation Engineering Intern role at Pieper Automation offers an exceptional opportunity for aspiring engineers to dive into the world of industrial automation. This hands-on internship provides structured learning, mentorship, and real-world project involvement, giving interns practical experience with automation tools, safety systems, and engineering workflows.

Role & Function

As an Automation Engineering Intern, you will directly support the Pieper Automation team, assisting engineers and project teams with critical technical and project-based tasks. This role provides invaluable exposure to industrial automation, control systems, and manufacturing technologies, allowing you to contribute meaningfully to active projects and broader business initiatives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Learning & Development

• Shadowing & Observation: Gain deep insights by shadowing Automation Engineers and other professionals, observing engineering roles, processes, and project execution from start to finish.
• Active Participation: Engage in technical training sessions, team meetings, and jobsite visits (where applicable) to broaden your understanding.
• Industry Standards: Learn and apply industry standards, tools, and best practices in automation, controls, and machine safety.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work with diverse teams to enhance your communication, teamwork, and overall professional skills.

Engineering & Technical Support

• Project Assistance: Provide direct support to Automation Engineers on various engineering and project tasks.
• System Design Support: Assist in the design of crucial control systems, including control panels, electrical schematics, and automation networks.
• Drawing Review: Review, check, and edit electrical and control drawings for accuracy and compliance.
• Software Development: Aid in the development and rigorous testing of PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) and HMI (Human-Machine Interface) application software.
• System Activities: Participate actively in system testing, troubleshooting, and comprehensive documentation efforts.
• Rotational Exposure: Gain broad business exposure by rotating through various functional groups such as automation programming, design, vision inspection systems, machine safety, and panel building.

Departmental & Project Support

• Administrative & Project Assistance: Support teams with day-to-day administrative duties and various project-based tasks.
• Documentation & Reporting: Assist with document control, data entry, and reporting for active projects and internal initiatives.
• Material Preparation: Help prepare technical and project materials as assigned.
• Networking & Learning: Participate in meetings, jobsite visits, and other learning opportunities to gain exposure to the department, company, and industry.

Research & Business Insight

• Technology Research: Conduct research on emerging automation technologies, tools, and prevailing industry trends.
• Business Understanding: Learn about the company’s services, operational procedures, and departmental workflows.
• Application of Research: Apply research findings to effectively support engineering projects and contribute to continuous improvement efforts.

Safety / Hazard Recognition & Elimination

• Proactive Safety Planning: Preplan work tasks and identify methods to eliminate hazards before work commences.
• Hazard Identification: Observe work habits and conditions, identify potential hazards, and communicate concerns appropriately and promptly.
• Safety Priority: Uphold safety as the company’s paramount priority and actively support the goal of zero accidents.
• Open Communication: Promote open communication regarding safety concerns, improvements, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) needs between field and office personnel.
• Required Training: Complete all required safety training as expected of all company personnel.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Education: High School Diploma (or equivalent) required.
• Current Enrollment: Currently pursuing an Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Automated Manufacturing, Electromechanical Design, or a closely related field.
• Academic Standing: Completion of at least one (1) year in a Controls, Electrical Engineering, or related degree program is preferred.
• Prior Experience: Previous relevant experience or coursework in automation, electrical systems, or controls is considered a significant plus.

Experience, Skills, and Abilities

• Safety Commitment: Strong, unwavering commitment to safety, prioritizing it above all else (non-negotiable).
• Safety Attitude: Positive safety attitude and impeccable personal integrity.
• Technical Interest: Genuine interest in industrial automation, controls integration, and factory automation technologies.
• Technical Aptitude: Experience with computers, electrical circuits, or automation-related technology preferred.
• Software Proficiency: Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, Teams).
• Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Teamwork: Ability to work effectively in a team-based environment and make immediate contributions.
• Relationship Building: Ability to build trust and foster effective working relationships across all organizational levels.
• Problem-Solving: Strong problem-solving and logical reasoning skills.
• Organizational Skills: Detail-oriented with the ability to prioritize, organize, and multitask efficiently.
• Drive & Motivation: Self-motivated with a strong work ethic and a clear desire to learn and grow professionally.