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Automation Engineer Intern Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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

Prior intern experience in HVAC and building systems a plus but not required. Requirements ... building automation systems * Work in a team setting with mechanical team members and multi ...

Technical Co-Op 2

Cedar Rapids, IA ยท On-site

$42K - $57K/yr

Key Responsibilities Summer/Fall Intern * Participate in manufacturing and operations projects ... automation, and process improvement projects as required. * Assist the engineering and operations ...

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Automation Engineer Intern information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$18

$27

How much do automation engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 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.

Is $20 an hour good for an internship?

For an Automation Engineer Intern, $20 an hour is generally considered competitive, especially for entry-level positions that may require basic knowledge of automation tools and programming languages. Internships often pay between minimum wage and $20 or more, depending on the industry, location, and required skills. Factors such as company size, location, and the intern's experience can influence whether this rate is considered good.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Automation Engineer Intern position, and why are they important?

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.

Is there a demand for automation engineers?

Automation engineers are in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, technology, and automotive, driven by the need to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Skills in programming, control systems, and familiarity with automation tools like PLCs and robotics are highly valued, and employment opportunities are expected to grow as companies increasingly adopt automation solutions.

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 types of 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.

Will AI replace automation engineer?

AI is a tool that can automate certain tasks within an automation engineer's role, such as data analysis and process optimization. However, automation engineers are needed to design, implement, and oversee complex systems, requiring skills in programming, troubleshooting, and system integration that AI cannot fully replace. The role is expected to evolve with AI, emphasizing skills in AI integration and system management.
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 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:
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer Intern job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,734 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Design Professional - Mechanical

Shive Hattery Group, Inc.

West Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

$69K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Description:



Shive-Hattery's West Des Moines, IA office has an opening for a new graduate or early career Mechanical Engineer with 0 to 2 years of experience. This position will support our mechanical commissioning group and design group. This opportunity is a full-time position for a motivated individual with the ability to work and learn and the goal of acquiring a Professional Engineer license.



What You'll Do:

  • With the support of the Group Leader and the Mechanical Engineers in this location, this position assists on a variety of design projects across the private and public sectors.
  • Assist more senior engineers with entry-level mechanical commissioning tasks
  • Assist more senior engineers with entry-level mechanical engineering tasks
  • Assist with installation verification and operation verification of building systems to include plumbing, heating, cooling, ventilation, fire protection, building automation, and industrial process systems
  • Assist with mechanical design of building systems to include plumbing, heating, cooling, ventilation, fire protection, building automation, and industrial process systems
  • Work in a team setting with mechanical team members and multi-disciplines teams including Electrical, Structural, Architectural, and Civil
  • Work on a variety of mechanical projects across our market sectors. Common projects include government facilities, healthcare, industrial, commercial and education facilities
  • Produce construction drawings using Revit 3D modeling software
  • Assist with performing onsite construction administration and construction observation services including reporting and monitoring contractor's compliance with contract documents.


Requirements:



  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Architectural Engineering with an HVAC emphasis from an accredited engineering school.
  • Experience: new graduate or early career Design Professional with 0 to 2 years; Prior intern experience in HVAC and building systems is a plus but not required.
  • License/Certification: Have taken and passed, or intent to take the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam to obtain official Engineering Intern designation by the State of Iowa
  • Experienced in 3D modeling software, Revit preferred. Experience with Microsoft Word and Excel is desired
  • Must be able to collaborate with other team members in a professional environment and have good interpersonal skills
  • Must be able to communicate effectively, orally and in writing
  • Must be able to manage time and workload effectively which includes planning, organizing, and prioritizing with attention to engineering detail
  • Must be able to drive and have access to an automobile, climb ladders and work off of elevated platforms and open grating, and wear personal protective equipment required for specific clients and sites
  • Must be able to pass drug screening tests and background screening, which are both required for some client sites.


Why Shive-Hattery?


Our learning and teaching culture is founded on collaboration. You will learn from and teach other employees while working across disciplines. You will grow your skills and continue your professional growth at Shive-Hattery.


Shive-Hattery offers an outstanding and competitive total compensation package including competitive pay and over 35 different benefits.



Benefit Highlights

  • Medical, Dental, Vision โ€“ 4 tiers of coverage
  • Voluntary Life Insurance โ€“ Employee, Spouse, and Child
  • Voluntary Insurance Plans โ€“ Accident, Critical Illness, & Hospital Indemnity
  • FSA โ€“ Medical & Dependent Care
  • 8 Paid Holidays + PTO
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • 401K/Roth 401K with Company Match
  • Overtime Bonus
  • Profit Sharing Bonus
  • First Time License Bonus
  • Tuition Reimbursement & Licensure/Certification Financial Support
  • Professional Development Opportunities
  • Calm Meditation & Stress Relief Subscription
  • โ€ฆAnd Many More!



U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

  • At this time, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship now or in the future. Candidates must have current and ongoing authorization to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.


Notice to Recruiters and Staffing Agencies: To protect the interests of all parties, Shive-Hattery and its partners will not accept unsolicited candidate submissions from a recruiter or staffing agency who is not operating under an executed recruiting or staffing services contract with Shive-Hattery. Please do not contact our employees directly in that regard or otherwise submit unsolicited candidate information in any form.



Shive-Hattery offers a flexible work environment and supports balancing personal and professional responsibilities. We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.