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Automation Engineer Intern Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Interstates

Engineering intern

Sioux Center, IA · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

A Design Services intern will support Interstates with a variety of tasks and projects, gaining ... Design Automation Control Panels including PLC, and Remote I/O Panels and Low Voltage (480VAC ...

Interstates

Engineering intern

Sioux Center, IA

$16 - $20.75/hr

A Design Services intern will support Interstates with a variety of tasks and projects, gaining ... Design Automation Control Panels including PLC, and Remote I/O Panels and Low Voltage (480VAC ...

Shive Hattery Group

Mechanical Engineer

Iowa City, IA · On-site

... building automation systems * Collaboration is key as you'll work within a team alongside ... Engineering Intern (EI) having passed the Fundamentals of Engineering exam and currently pursuing a ...

Riverhead Resources

AI & Data Intern

Pleasant Hill, IA · On-site

$25/hr

Work with IT and business teams to identify opportunities for data analysis and automation ... Computer Engineering * Strong technical skills in the following areas: * Proficiency in Python ...

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All JobsAutomation Engineer Intern JobsAutomation Engineer Intern Jobs in Iowa

Automation Engineer Intern information

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How much do automation engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for automation engineer intern in Iowa is $18.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $19.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an automation engineer intern do?

An Automation Engineer Intern assists in designing, developing, and testing automated systems and processes to improve efficiency. They work with software, hardware, and scripting tools to automate tasks, troubleshoot issues, and optimize workflows. Interns typically collaborate with engineering teams to implement automation solutions and document processes. This role provides hands-on experience in fields like software testing, industrial automation, or DevOps, depending on the industry.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an automation engineer intern?

To thrive as an Automation Engineer Intern, you should have a solid understanding of programming languages such as Python, Java, or C++, along with coursework or experience in automation, control systems, or related engineering fields. Familiarity with automation tools like PLCs, SCADA systems, and testing frameworks, as well as knowledge of relevant certifications such as Certified Automation Professional (CAP), is highly valued. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills will help you contribute effectively within collaborative engineering environments. These skills ensure you can adapt quickly, contribute meaningfully to projects, and learn from real-world engineering challenges.

What projects and responsibilities can I expect as an automation engineer intern?

As an Automation Engineer Intern, you can expect to work on a variety of projects that may include developing or maintaining automated test scripts, assisting with the design and implementation of control systems, and troubleshooting automation processes under the guidance of senior engineers. You might also participate in continuous improvement initiatives, analyze system performance data, and support the integration of new automation technologies. Interns typically collaborate closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams, gaining exposure to real-world industrial practices and tools. These experiences provide a practical foundation and help prepare you for a full-time role in automation engineering after graduation.

What is an automation engineer intern?

An automation engineer intern is a student or entry-level professional gaining hands-on experience in designing, developing, and testing automated systems and processes. They typically work with tools like scripting languages, automation frameworks, and control systems under supervision to support manufacturing, software, or industrial automation projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineer jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Automation Engineer Intern jobs in Iowa?

For Automation Engineer Intern jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automation Engineer Intern jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Engineer Intern jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Automation Engineer Intern jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Automation Engineer Intern job openings:

Automation Engineer Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer Intern job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Internship, and 28% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,734 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Engineering intern

Interstates

Sioux Center, IA • On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Internship

Posted 15 days ago

Interstates rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Take Charge of Your Career at Interstates
At Interstates, we don't just show up to work, we show up for each other. From our headquarters in Iowa to job sites across the country, we're doing award-winning electrical, controls, automation, and OT work that powers industrial facilities for clients here in the U.S. and around the world. Whether you're bending conduit, wiring panels, writing code, supporting projects, or helping things run behind the scenes, you'll be part of a crew that works hard, shares laughs, and takes pride in doing quality work. We believe in building strong teams, doing the right thing, and making a difference in the communities where we live. If you want to grow and do meaningful work, you'll feel at home here.
A Design Services intern will support Interstates with a variety of tasks and projects, gaining hands-on experience in industrial electrical design and construction. This role offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a dynamic, hands-on learning environment, working alongside seasoned professionals, develop an electrical construction vocabulary. Individuals will be actively involved in real projects, engaging with our teams as they work on current initiatives moving through the pipeline. This is an excellent opportunity to get an in-depth education in a specific electrical discipline as well as business operations, project management, safety, and other valuable skills that will be instrumental in your future career.
Primary Duties:
  • Equipment Lists - Collect data and review received information that represent the scope of the project
  • Design - Record design decisions in software like InterTrak (internal equipment list software) to facilitate design drawings and equipment specifications
  • Drawings - Use 2D and 3D drafting software to develop electrical drawings used to communicate project scope to the contractors or fabricators
  • Professional Communication - Utilize various software to provide clear communication with team members and clients regarding project updates

Secondary Duties:
  • Travel to job-sites or shop and work alongside the craft or manufacturing team as tasks/projects are completed
  • Network within Interstates industries to promote the Interstates brand and further promote our position as a premier provider of engineering services
  • In all aspects of the position, this role will carry out his/her duties in compliance with organizational policy and applicable laws
  • Other duties as assigned

Discipline Emphases - Each internship will focus on one of the following:
  • Studies
    • Utilize SKM to complete power system models and execute Arc Flash, Coordination, and Short Circuit analysis
    • Write reports to communicate the electrical hazards present, precautionary measures, and remediation recommendations
  • Power
    • Develop the electrical distribution plan to bring power from the utility to the utilization equipment (motors, devices, lights, and receptacles)
    • Use AutoCAD and Revit to develop electrical drawings communicating the scope of the project
  • PDP (Planning Design & Prefab)
    • Develop a constructible plan that facilitates successful off-site prefabrication and on-site installation of electrical systems
    • Use Revit to develop 3D BIM models and produce installation or manufacturing documents
  • Controls
    • Design Automation Control Panels including PLC, and Remote I/O Panels and Low Voltage (480VAC) Motor Control Panels
    • Design electrical schematics and wiring diagrams for connections to field instrumentation
  • Instrumentation
    • Evaluate P&IDs (Process and Instrumentation Diagrams) to understand the process and validate device requirements
    • Size and select industrial measurement and control devices (Temp Transmitters, Flowmeters, Pressure Gauges, Hazard Monitoring, etc.)
  • Field
    • Deliver elements of the above disciplines while working on-site alongside construction personnel
    • Aid in the design/build process by gathering field information and validating project design

Education and/or Experience:
  • 0-4 years of electrical experience/education, be working towards an engineering degree. Additionally, candidates pursuing a drafting degree from a technical college will be considered.

Preferred Skills:
  • Good communication (verbal, written, listening) and teamwork skills
  • Knowledge of, or interest in, manufacturing, industrial, and electrical systems
  • Ability to work with superintendents, engineers, estimators, and customers

Travel: Travel may be required and will vary according to business requirements and internship.
What You Should Know Before You Apply
Interstates may collect personal information as part of your job application, such as your contact details, work history, education, and any information you provide. This information is used only for recruitment, to evaluate your candidacy, and to meet legal requirements. For details about our privacy practices and your rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), please see our Privacy Policy. By applying, you acknowledge that you have reviewed this notice.
Interstates is an EEO provider and offers a drug-free workplace. Employment at Interstates is at-will and may be terminated at any time with or without notice or cause, except as otherwise provided by law.

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