Automation Engineering Intern

About the role

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. Interns gain practical experience with automation tools, safety systems, and engineering workflows while contributing meaningfully to active projects and broader business‑initiative tasks.

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 mechanical and robotic cell design; review, check, and edit electrical and/or mechanical drawings; assist with the development and testing of PLC and HMI application software; participate in system testing, troubleshooting, and documentation activities; rotate through 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: Pre‑plan 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

• 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.

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.