Automation Engineering Intern
Role, Function & Organization
The Automation Engineering Intern supports the Pieper Automation team by assisting engineers and project teams with technical and project-based tasks. This role offers hands-on exposure to industrial automation, control systems, custom machines, robotics, and manufacturing technologies through structured learning, mentorship, and real-world project involvement. Automation Engineering Interns gain practical experience with automation tools, safety systems, and engineering workflows while contributing meaningfully to active projects and broader business initiative-based tasks.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Learning & Development
- Shadow Automation Engineers and related professionals to gain insight into engineering roles, processes, and project execution
- Participate in technical training, team meetings, and jobsite visits (as applicable)
- Learn and apply industry standards, tools, and best practices related to automation, controls, and machine safety
- Collaborate with cross functional teams to strengthen communication, teamwork, and overall professional skills.
Engineering & Technical Support
- Assist Automation Engineers with engineering and project tasks
- Support the design of control systems, including control panels, electrical schematics, and automation networks, and/or a focus on mechanical and robotic cell design
- Review, check, and edit electrical and/or mechanical drawings
- Assist with the development and testing of PLC application software
- Assist with the development and testing of HMI application software
- Participate in system testing, troubleshooting, and documentation activities
- Rotate through various functional groups (automation programming, design, vision inspection systems, machine safety, panel building, etc.) to gain broad exposure to the business
Departmental & Project Support
- Assist teams with day-to-day administrative and project-based tasks.
- Support document control, data entry, and reporting for active projects or internal initiatives
- Help prepare technical and project materials as assigned
- Participate in meetings, jobsite visits, and other learning opportunities to gain exposure to the department, company, and industry
Research & Business Insight
- Conduct research on automation technologies, tools, and industry trends
- Learn about company services, operations, and departmental workflows
- Apply research findings to support engineering projects and continuous improvement efforts
Safety / Hazard Recognition & Elimination
- Preplan work tasks and identify methods to eliminate hazards before work begins
- Observe work habits and conditions, identify hazards, and communicate concerns appropriately
- Uphold safety as the company’s top priority and support the goal of zero accidents
- Promote open communication between field and office regarding safety concerns, improvements, and PPE needs
- Complete required safety training as expected of all company personnel
Qualifications and Requirements
- High School Diploma (or equivalent) required
- Currently pursuing and completion of at least one year in an Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree program in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics Engineering, Automated Manufacturing, Electromechanical Design, or a related field
- Previous relevant experience is a plus
Experience, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong commitment to safety, with safety prioritized above all else
- Positive safety attitude and personal integrity (nonnegotiable)
- Interest in industrial automation, controls integration, and factory automation technologies
- Experience with computers, electrical circuits, or automation related technology preferred
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, Teams)
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work effectively in a team-based environment and contribute immediately
- Ability to build trust and effective working relationships at all organizational levels
- Strong problem solving and logical reasoning skills
- Detail oriented with the ability to prioritize, organize, and multitask
- Self-motivated with a strong work ethic and desire to learn and grow professionally
Skills Required
- High School Diploma or equivalent
- Currently pursuing and completion of at least one year in an Associate's or Bachelor's program in Electrical, Mechanical, Robotics, Automated Manufacturing, Electromechanical Design, or related
- Previous relevant experience
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, Teams)
- Experience with computers, electrical circuits, or automation-related technology
- Strong commitment to safety
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work effectively in a team-based environment
- Strong problem solving and logical reasoning skills
What We Do
PPC Partners is an employee-owned specialty contracting holding company that operates several leading electrical, mechanical, automation, and construction businesses. The company focuses on driving success through a strong safety culture and innovative solutions, primarily serving clients across the Midwest and Southeast regions of North America through its various subsidiary branches.
