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Controls Engineer Intern Jobs in Bellingham, WA (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer Intern information

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 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 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 cities near Bellingham, WA are hiring for Controls Engineer Intern jobs?

Cities near Bellingham, WA with the most Controls Engineer Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls Engineer Intern job openings in Bellingham, WA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Summer Internship - Instrumentation, Controls & Electrical Engineer - Cherry Point - Blaine, WA

bp

Blaine, WA • On-site

$7.4K - $7.8K/mo

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Support day-to-day maintenance and reliability activities for refinery assets.

  • Troubleshoot critical instrumentation and electrical equipment in the refinery.

  • Develop scope and execute operating unit outage activities.


BP rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 192 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

74th of 87 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Job Family Group:
Business Support Group
Job Description:
*Please note -only one application per candidate.
Summer Internship - Instrumentation, Controls & Electrical Engineer - Cherry Point - Blaine, WA
About bp
As a leading global energy company with a presence in 61 countries, bp's purpose is to deliver energy to the world, today and tomorrow. We are one of only a few companies that can deliver energy - at scale - to countries and millions of customers every day. With more than 100 years of experience, we bring together technology, innovation and deep expertise that keeps communities moving - and we're still evolving.
About early careers
Early careers opportunities
Your talent. Your skills. Your big ideas (and even bigger dreams). We know you have a lot to give. So we'll make sure you get a lot in return. From next-level experiences to global impact. From inspiring teammates to exceptional support - we offer graduate and internship roles across multiple areas.
Our internships
Make an impact on cutting-edge projects. Help find solutions to complex challenges. Be part of a company that invests in you and your growth. You can do it all as an intern at bp. Our 12-week summer programme gives you the opportunity to build your technical knowledge, develop key skills and learn more about life at bp. You'll be part of one team throughout your internship, supported by a dedicated line manager and buddy. There'll be opportunities to connect with other interns, take part in training and grow your network across the business.
About the Role
Bp's Cherry Point refinery is one of the most modern refineries in the US, the largest in Washington, and the fourth largest on the West Coast. It supplies about 20 percent of Washington's gasoline needs and fuels, and a significant amount of the jet fuel to Seattle, Portland and Vancouver, BC international airports.
As an Instrumentation, Controls & Electrical Engineering Intern at Cherry Point, you will:
The position of Electrical/Instrument Engineer at our Cherry Point Refinery will involve working with multiple disciplines. The candidate will work in a team environment and engage with operations, maintenance, environmental, safety and engineering personnel to provide technical support for operating units, design and management of projects, and engineering solutions for major unit maintenance events. Specific responsibilities may include work on any of the following:
  • Electrical Engineer - power equipment design and analysis, switchgear & cable selection, variable frequency drive conversions, power generation and distribution support, lighting design & layout, grounding design, area classification interpretation, heat tracing design

  • Instrument Engineer - instrumentation design & analysis of flow, pressure, level, temperature instruments, gas detection & analyzer applications, controls and ladder logic design.

  • Both - emergency shutdown system design and testing, I&E equipment reliability, equipment troubleshooting, root cause failure analysis, use of design codes (API, NEC, etc), financial and business decision making (NPV, IRR, life cycle cost methodology), searching for and implementing new technology, construction support, review of supplier data and quality for engineered equipment, review of capital projects for conformance with refinery specifications, and ownership of engineering documentation for instrumentation & electrical equipment in the refinery.

Assignments may vary, but could include:
  • Supporting day-to-day maintenance and reliability activities for an operating asset in the refinery

  • Troubleshooting refinery critical instrumentation and electrical equipment

  • Developing scope and executing operating unit outage activities

  • Using analytical methods to develop maintenance strategies for instrumentation and electrical equipment to optimize operational availability

  • Providing technical recommendations and directions on instrumentation and electrical equipment to front line teams and production personnel

  • Working with process engineers to optimize and improve unit operations

Why Join us?
Successful interns will be considered for a full-time role within our One Engineering Program upon earning their degree. The One Engineering Program at bp is a development program for Early career discipline engineers, in which they will build their experience through challenging development assignments, develop a toolkit of transferable skills for the future, and have a dedicated network of support to help them succeed.
Benefits
  • Retirement savings opportunities

  • bp-provided corporate housing with furnished apartments

  • Relocation assistance (if eligible)

  • Competitive pay

  • We pay interns and co-ops a set non-negotiable monthly rate based on your degree major, degree level and year of graduation. For this role, monthly salaries range from $7438 to $7875 monthly).

Minimum Requirements for the internship:
  • Working toward a bachelor's degree in electrical, chemical or mechanical engineering discipline

  • Graduating between December 2027 and May 2028

  • Current Cumulative GPA Minimum 3.0

  • Eligible to work in the U.S. with no restrictions (bp will not support U.S. Immigration sponsorship for full-time or long-term employment)

  • Must be available to start 12-week internship on May 17, 2027, or June 14, 2027 (will be required to pass all background and medical checks at least one week prior to start date)

Legal Disclaimer
We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on protected characteristics like race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or disability status. Individuals with an accessibility need may request an adjustment/accommodation related to bp's recruiting process (e.g., accessing the job application, completing required assessments, participating in telephone screenings or interviews, etc.). If you would like to request an adjustment/accommodation related to the recruitment process, please contact us. If you are selected for a position and depending upon your role, your employment may be contingent upon adherence to local policy. This may include pre-placement drug screening, medical review of physical fitness for the role, and background checks.
Travel Requirement:
Negligible travel should be expected with this role
Relocation Assistance:
This role is eligible for relocation within country
Remote Type:
This position is not available for remote working
Skills:
Adaptability, Authenticity, Collaboration, Communication, Continuous Learning, Courage, Creativity and Innovation, Curiosity, Decision Making, Digital Fluency, Ethical judgement, Excellence, Influencing, Knowledge Sharing, Listening, Managing volatility, Problem Solving, Resilience, Self-Awareness, Stakeholder Engagement, Stakeholder Management, Understanding Emotions, Writing skills
Legal Disclaimer:
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, socioeconomic status, neurodiversity/neurocognitive functioning, veteran status or disability status. Individuals with an accessibility need may request an adjustment/accommodation related to bp's recruiting process (e.g., accessing the job application, completing required assessments, participating in telephone screenings or interviews, etc.). If you would like to request an adjustment/accommodation related to the recruitment process, please contact us.
If you are selected for a position and depending upon your role, your employment may be contingent upon adherence to local policy. This may include pre-placement drug screening, medical review of physical fitness for the role, and background checks.

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