Automation Engineering Intern 

Job Description 

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, 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. This role offers hands-on exposure to industrial automation, control systems, and manufacturing technologies through structured learning, mentorship, and real-world project involvement.  

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 

• Review, check, and edit electrical and control 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 an Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Automated Manufacturing, Electromechanical Design, or a related field 

• Completion of at least one (1) year in a Controls, Electrical Engineering, or related degree program preferred 

• Previous relevant experience or coursework in automation, electrical systems, or controls 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