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Controls Engineer Intern Jobs in Calgary, AB (NOW HIRING)

As a Project Controls Engineering Student, you will be a part of the Oil Sands Estimating team and ... Opportunities to partake in initiatives such as the Intern Social Committee Check out our ...

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 are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Calgary, AB?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Calgary, AB are:

Electrical Engineering Student - Conventional or Thermal

Canadian Natural

Calgary, AB • On-site

Full-time

PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

The Opportunity:

Are you a student looking for an exciting opportunity that is full of meaningful, diverse, and ambitious assignments working alongside industry leading professionals? Join Canadian Natural, where we strive to provide opportunities based on your abilities, helping you to contribute in a meaningful way and apply your academic experience to challenging and rewarding projects!

As an Engineering Student working on either our Facilities Electrical or Instrumentation and Controls team, you will gain experience in the design, construction, modification, operation and optimization of oil and gas facilities. You will gain exposure to different types of facilities and electrical, instrumentation and controls designs used in Canadian Natural's Western Canada business.

  • Job location: Calgary, Alberta - Head Office
  • Work schedule: 5 days on, 2 days off, 8 hours per day (Monday - Friday)
  • Term lengths: 8 months
  • Term start: January and May 2027
  • Safety sensitive position: Yes

Key Accountabilities:

  • Apply electrical, instrumentation and/or controls engineering principles to develop solutions for the conventional or thermal oil and gas business units
  • Work with various teams on reliability focused improvements and initiatives through the application of Lean Six Sigma principles

What You Bring to The Role:

  • Currently enrolled in a bachelor's degree or Technologist Program in Engineering or within one year of graduation (Electrical, Instrumentation or Controls disciplines preferred)
  • Possess a valid Class 5 Alberta driver's license or equivalent out of province license

What We Offer:

  • Competitive salary
  • Paid time off during Christmas week and summer Fridays in July and August
  • Multiple volunteer opportunities within the community
  • Students may be eligible for relocation assistance pursuant to Canadian Natural's Student Relocation Policy (Students will be responsible for finding their own accommodations during the work term)
  • Opportunities to partake in initiatives such as the Intern Social Committee

Check out our COMPENSATION & BENEFITS overview to learn more about what we have to offer!

If you are interested in this exciting student work term opportunity, please include your resume, cover letter and unofficial transcripts as part of your online application.

All candidates applying to Canadian Natural must have legal authorization to work in Canada with no restrictions.

We wish to thank all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for the position; however, only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted. This posting will close once a successful candidate has been selected.

Canadian Natural operates one of the largest Campus Recruitment programs in the country, hiring over 400 students every year. Students hired on with us are made to feel a part of the team, gaining high level experience, knowledge, and training that introduces and prepares them for full-time employment. 

We are proud to share that Canadian Natural has been ranked as a Top Employer for 2023, 2024 and 2025 by Canada's Future Workforce and also one of Forbes' Canada's Best Employers in 2025 and 2026.

Industry Leader: We commenced business in 1989 with a handful of employees and modest production, but today we employ more than 10,000 people and produce over 1 million BOE/d. 

Community Investment: Social responsibility is a critical element of our commitment to responsible operations and part of our success and pride as a Company. We are committed to investing in the communities where we live and work, creating shared value along the way.

Compensation and Benefits: We strive to share Company success with all employees through a comprehensive total compensation package.

Our People, Our Stories: Our stories demonstrate the strong culture that exists at Canadian Natural - one that focuses on developing people, working together and doing it right, with fun and integrity.

Check out some of our Student Testimonials!