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Controls Engineer Intern Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

MECHANICAL ENGINEER SKILLBRIDGE INTERN (PLANT OPERATIONS Location: Newport News, Virginia, United ... as instruments, controls, robots, engines, machines and mechanical, thermal hydraulic or heat ...

Finance Intern (2025 - 2026 Season)

Tysons, VA · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

... controls, audiovisual, and IT systems. Headquarters in Tysons, Virginia, M.C. Dean delivers ... Our people are passionate about engineering innovation that improves lives and drives impactful ...

Human Resource Intern - Tysons, VA

Tysons, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

... controls, audiovisual, and IT systems. Headquarters in Tysons, Virginia, M.C. Dean delivers ... Our people are passionate about engineering innovation that improves lives and drives impactful ...

Summer 2026 Intern - VA/DC

Reston, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

... support to Project Engineer, Project Superintendent, and/or Project Manager. * Assist with ... controls and reach with hands, talk, and hear. The employee is regularly required to be mobile.

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Controls Engineer Intern information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Controls Engineer Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controls Engineer Intern, you need a foundation in electrical or mechanical engineering principles, familiarity with automation concepts, and enrollment in a relevant engineering degree program. Hands-on experience with PLC programming, HMI software, and CAD tools, as well as knowledge of industry standards, are typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help interns excel in collaborative and fast-paced project environments. These skills and qualifications enable effective troubleshooting, system design, and integration essential for successful automation solutions.

What is the difference between Controls Engineer Intern vs Controls Engineer?

AspectControls Engineer InternControls Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing a degree in electrical, mechanical, or control engineering; internship experienceBachelor's or master's degree in engineering; professional certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in manufacturing or automation companies, supervised by experienced engineersFull-time role in design, development, and maintenance of control systems within industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies hiring interns to gain future talent; common in manufacturing, automation, and roboticsFull-time position in similar industries, focusing on project execution and system optimization

The Controls Engineer Intern role is an entry-level position designed for students gaining practical experience, while the Controls Engineer is a full-time professional responsible for designing and maintaining control systems. Interns typically work under supervision, whereas engineers operate independently on complex projects.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Controls Engineer Intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Controls Engineer Intern, you can expect to support senior engineers on projects such as designing, programming, and testing automation systems used in manufacturing or industrial environments. Your daily tasks may include drafting electrical schematics, assisting with PLC programming, troubleshooting control panels, and helping to commission automated equipment. Interns often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical engineers and technicians, to ensure smooth integration of control systems. This hands-on experience provides valuable exposure to real-world engineering challenges and can be a stepping stone to a full-time position.

What does a Controls Engineer Intern do?

A Controls Engineer Intern assists in designing, developing, and maintaining automated control systems used in manufacturing or industrial settings. Typical tasks include programming PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), troubleshooting equipment, and supporting senior engineers with system integration and testing. Interns gain hands-on experience with automation software and hardware, and they often contribute to projects that improve process efficiency and safety. This role is ideal for students in engineering fields who want practical experience in automation and controls technology.
What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Controls Engineer Intern jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Controls Engineer Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer Intern job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 94% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.
MECHANICAL ENGINEER SKILLBRIDGE INTERN (PLANT OPERATIONS-Newport News,Virginia

MECHANICAL ENGINEER SKILLBRIDGE INTERN (PLANT OPERATIONS-Newport News,Virginia

HII

On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Full-time, Internship

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Huntington Ingalls Industries rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 141 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

188th of 518 rated manufacturers


Job description

MECHANICAL ENGINEER SKILLBRIDGE INTERN (PLANT OPERATIONS
Location:
Newport News, Virginia, United States
Date: May 21, 2026
Req ID: 43131
Team: K21 TALENT ACQUISITION
Entity: Newport News Shipbuilding
US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes
Full-Time
Shift: 1st
Relocation: No relocation assistance available
Virtual/Telework Opportunity: No - Not eligible for telework
Travel Requirement: No
Clearance Required: No - Clearance Not Required to Start
Meet HII's Newport News Shipbuilding
With more than 25,000 employees - including third-, fourth- and even fifth-generation shipbuilders - HII's Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division is the largest industrial employer in Virginia. We're the sole designer, builder and refueler of U.S. Navy nuclear aircraft carriers and one of two providers of U.S. Navy nuclear submarines. Our diverse and innovative team of professionals ranges from skilled trades to project managers, engineers and software developers to solution architects, technical subject matter experts, and system users. Anchored in our rich, 135-year history, we collaborate together at the forefront of technology, manufacturing, and integration of the most powerful and survivable naval ships in the world. Want to be part of the team? Apply today! We look forward to meeting you.
The Role
This is an UNPAID internship through the Hire Vets Now (HVN) SkillBridge Program for transitioning active-duty US military personnel. HVN SkillBridge Internships are available to help transitioning active-duty military personnel gain real-world experience in the work force sometime during their final 180 days of active-duty service. The intern will actively train on meaningful projects and work closely with a mentor and with senior company leadership. Newport News Shipbuilding Internship programs are focused on placing transitioning military into internships that require KSAs, Education & Military Training similar to their current or previous military jobs; positions that could easily transition over to a full-time regular and permanent job with Newport News Shipbuilding.
MECHANICAL ENGINEER
Researches, plans, designs and develops mechanical products and systems such as instruments, controls, robots, engines, machines and mechanical, thermal hydraulic or heat transfer systems for production, transmission, measurement, and use of energy. Applies research to the planning, design, development, and testing of mechanical and/or electromechanical systems, instruments, controls, engines, and/or machines.
Newport News Shipbuilding requires a Bachelor's Degree in engineering from an ABET accredited program.
Must Have
Active-Duty Military ONLY within final 180 days of active-duty service. Transitioning Military candidates can begin applying within final 12 months of military service. Education and Experience dependent on Program of Instruction.
Why HII
We build the world's most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. HII's diverse workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals.
Recognized as one of America's top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you'll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career.
Working at HII is more than a job - it's an opportunity to build a future. We offer comprehensive benefits including: medical, prescription drug, dental and vision plan choices, on-site health centers, tele-medicine, wellness resources, employee assistance programs, savings plan options (401K), financial education and planning tools, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts, early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships, and more. Some benefits may vary depending on your specific division or work location.
Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law. U.S. Citizenship may be required for certain positions.
Do You Need Assistance?
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to buildyourcareer@hii-co.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this e-mail address.
Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #2 for Newport News Shipbuilding.

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