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Controls Engineer Intern Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

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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 Austin, TX? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Austin, TX are:
What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Controls Engineer Intern jobs? Cities near Austin, TX with the most Controls Engineer Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer Intern job openings in Austin, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Internship, and 57% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Manufacturing Controls Engineering Intern

Base Power Company

Austin, TX โ€ข On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Internship

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

About Base
Base is America's next-generation power company. We're rebuilding the foundation of modern civilization-electricity-by deploying a vast network of distributed batteries that is transforming today's fragile, centralized grid into a resilient and abundant system. We are engineers, operators, and creatives solving some of the most complex, interdisciplinary challenges of our time.
About the Role
Base is looking for an intern to join our Manufacturing Controls Engineering team as we build new manufacturing lines to produce battery backup systems. As an intern, you'll get hands-on exposure to designing, testing, and troubleshooting the systems that power our manufacturing operations. You'll work closely with engineers across multiple teams, learning how large-scale production systems are developed and launched for the first time.
This internship is designed to give you real-world experience with manufacturing controls and automation while contributing directly to Base's mission of delivering reliable, affordable energy.
What You'll Do
  • Support the design, build, and launch of manufacturing lines for new energy storage products.
  • Learn how to develop and test controls systems that combine PLC logic with modern software.
  • Gain hands-on experience working with full-scale production equipment during commissioning and ramp-up.
  • Assist with troubleshooting and maintaining electro-mechanical equipment on the production floor.
  • Participate in supplier design reviews, testing activities, and cross-functional team meetings.
  • Contribute to the development of hardware and software standards for future equipment.

What You'll Bring
  • Working toward a Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or Computer Engineering (or a related field).
  • Coursework or projects involving PLCs, industrial automation, or robotics.
  • Interest in programming (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Python, or similar).
  • Familiarity with tools such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or schematic design software is a plus.
  • Hands-on skills with common hand tools, diagnostic equipment (e.g., multimeters), or lab projects.
  • Curiosity, problem-solving skills, and excitement to learn in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

About this Team
Makers of the machines that power tomorrow. The Manufacturing Engineering team owns the interface between a proof of concept and a scalable, profitable product. Our team focuses on how a product can be built, defining the process technology and equipment solutions along the way. We are the feedback loop with the product design team to ensure designs are manufacturable both at cost and scale. The Manufacturing Engineering team owns every aspect of bringing the physical mechanisms of manufacturing a product into the factory.
Please note: Base is a startup, which means priorities shift and evolve quickly. Your role may expand or change based on the needs of the business at any given time, so the responsibilities listed may not be exhaustive.
Our Values
  • First Principles Thinking: Question assumptions. Principles > rules.
  • Operate at Base Pace: Focus on what matters, act quickly, and learn by doing.
  • Give & Get Feedback: Be direct, be humble, and maintain a growth mindset.
  • Everyone's an Owner: Follow through on commitments and own results.
  • Strong Opinions, Loosely Held: Drive clarity and make calls with imperfect information.
  • Committed to the Mission: Rebuilding the grid is a big challenge. We work hard because we care deeply about the impact we're creating. We work in-person. It's not a 9-to-5. We are all-in.
  • Fun & Optimism Coexist with Grit: Collaboration and celebration coincide with the intensity of building real things.
Do the best work of your life at Base.