Automation Engineering Intern

Summary

PPC Partners Inc. is seeking an Automation Engineering Intern to support 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 and real-world project involvement.

Responsibilities

• 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
• 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
• 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
• 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
• 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

Skills

• 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
• 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
• 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
• Previous relevant experience is a plus
• Experience with computers, electrical circuits, or automation related technology preferred

Qualifications

Must Haves

• 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
• 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
• 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

Nice to Haves

• Previous relevant experience is a plus
• Experience with computers, electrical circuits, or automation related technology preferred