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Automation Engineer Intern Jobs in State College, PA

Automation Engineer Intern information

See State College, PA salary details

$10

$18

$28

How much do automation engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for automation engineer intern in State College, PA is $18.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $20.43 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 popular job titles related to Automation Engineer Intern jobs in State College, PA?

For Automation Engineer Intern jobs in State College, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automation Engineer Intern jobs in State College, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Engineer Intern jobs in State College, PA are:

What cities near State College, PA are hiring for Automation Engineer Intern jobs?

Cities near State College, PA with the most Automation Engineer Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Automation Engineer Intern job openings in State College, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,290 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Cyber Security Engineer Intern

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

234th of 627 rated colleges and universities


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
We are searching for an undergraduate student to join our Cyber & Information Security Division at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University to assist our Cybersecurity Assurance teams. ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
The successful candidate's typical duties will include:
  • Compliance enforcement
  • SIEM configuration and security administration
  • Vulnerability Management
  • Audit and security checks
  • Automation and process improvement
  • Compliance documentation updates
  • Technical writing in policy, process, and procedures
  • Hardware and Software reviews

Required skills and experience include:
  • Excellent communication, customer service, technical writing, and organizational skills

Preferred skills and experience include:
  • Configuration, installation, and support of desktop computing equipment as well as programming
  • Microsoft Windows and Linux systems in a domain environment
  • Familiarity with defensive cyber tools such as Firewalls, SIEM, XDR/EDR, CASB, FIM, IDS/IPS
  • Networking fundamentals
  • System administration and troubleshooting
  • Scripting (bash, python, etc.)
  • Compliance or auditing
  • NIST documentation (e.g. 800-171, 800-53)
  • STIG

Students studying within the field of Information and Cyber Security, Information Science and Technology, or Computer Science science/Engineering are encouraged to apply.
The successful candidate will work up to 20 hours/week during the fall and spring semesters, and 40 hours/week over the summer. This is a paid internship opportunity located at ARL in State College (primarily operating out of a Science Park Road location). Relocation and housing are not provided.
ARL at Penn State is an integral part of one of the leading research universities in the nation and serves as a University center of excellence in defense science, systems, and technologies with a focus in naval missions and related areas.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
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