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Controls Engineer Intern Jobs in Cleveland, OH (NOW HIRING)

Substation Protection and Controls Engineer

Akron, OH · On-site

$94K - $120K/yr

We are looking for a Substation Protection & Controls Engineer to join our team in our Pittsburgh ... Engineer Intern ("EI" or "EIT") professional certification. * Professional Engineer ("PE") License.

New

Our software controls the entire manufacturing process management from quotation to production to ... As a FeneTech software developer intern or co-op student you will work with our talented group of ...

Software Development Co-Op (Fall 2022)

Aurora, OH · On-site

$18 - $23.75/hr

Our software controls the entire manufacturing process management from quotation to production to ... As a FeneTech software developer intern or co-op student you will work with our talented group of ...

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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 Cleveland, OH?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Cleveland, OH are:

What cities near Cleveland, OH are hiring for Controls Engineer Intern jobs?

Cities near Cleveland, OH with the most Controls Engineer Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls Engineer Intern job openings in Cleveland, OH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

2027 Summer Intern - Manufacturing Controls Engineer

General Motors

Parma, OH

$16 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


General Motors rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

General Motors

Based on 307 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Automakers average

Based on 6,313 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Description

WhatYou'llDo:

Our plantsarethegroundworkfor GMand a hotbed of innovation. Weare looking forcontrolsengineer interns toassistmaintenance personnelin operation and maintenance of specialist equipment.

AsaControls Engineer Intern, youwillbe accountableforcontrolsengineering and electrical support for industrial manufacturing equipment. These tasks teach you electrical root causing analysis and problem solving as well as leadership skills to provide technical support and direction to support personnel/skilled trades within the organization. Quality and safety are extremely meaningful to us, so enforcing safe work practices is the highest priority and implementing objectives for ergonomics, health/safety, and housekeeping, which means that you would have to investigate system and equipment problems and provide technical input in problem resolution.

Responsibilities:

  • Leads electrical projects including neworoperations improvements, and periodic repair and replacement

  • Participates in functional area plant meetings and related activities torepresentengineering and toassistin reaching the plant's performance goals

  • Developscost estimates, investment forecasts, business cases, appropriationrequestsand plans for minor project activity

  • Utilizes statistical methods for continuous improvement on plant systems

  • Develops and monitors planning timetables and projects schedules

  • Coordinates and communicates the development of changes to improve conditions for the assembly process

  • Programming of manufacturing technology(PLC, robotics, HMI)

  • Analyzes product,processand technology todeterminethe best methods of manufacture

  • Assistsin the design and building of tools and equipment or recommends improvements to existing processes

Required Qualifications:

  • Pursuit of abachelor'sdegree in one of the following areas: ElectricalEngineering/ElectricalEngineering Technology,or Controls Engineering

  • Must be graduating between August 2027 and June 2029

  • Able to work full-time,40 hoursper week

  • Must be willing to work in aplantenvironment

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Outstanding interpersonal and relationship management skills with the ability to effectively collaborate with varying levels of the organization

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to distill complex subjects to a wider audience

  • Emerging partnership and collaboration skills and ability to learn from and share knowledge with co-workers in a fast-paced environment

  • Evidence of strong character with integrity, honesty,accountabilityand trust

  • Consistentlydemonstratesinnovative thinking that is customer-centric

  • Excellent project management skills and the proven ability to manage multiple projects at any given time.

Specific physical requirements of the position include the ability to:

  • Walk and stand for prolonged periods of time.

  • Read standardized work instructions,operatemachines and tools, and perform quality inspections.

  • Promptly detect and respond to safety instructions, alarms, and signals. Wear personal protective equipment, for example: safety glasses, gloves, hats, ear plugs, and safety shoes.

  • Work in a loud manufacturing environment that is notclimate controlled(conditions can be hot or cold).

  • Frequently and repetitively bend, twist, kneel, crouch, and reach to perform work.

  • Lift or carry materials weighing up to 15 pounds and periodically carry or lift materials weighing up to 40 lbs.

  • Occasionally sit, climb (including ladders and lifts) and drive vehicles and equipment.

Work Arrangement:

Onsite:This role is categorized asonsite.This means the successful candidate is expected to report totheirassigned facility on a full-time basis.

Each successful candidate will be offered an onsiterole at a specific location. Candidate location preferences are considered but cannot be guaranteed.

Job Location

We have opportunities available in the locationsbelowfor this role. Pleaseindicatein your application which of these locations you are interested in.

  • Arlington, TX

  • Bay City, MI

  • Bedford, IN

  • Bowling Green, KY

  • Defiance, OH

  • Detroit, MI

  • Fairfax, KS

  • Flint, MI

  • Grand Rapids, MI

  • Lansing, MI

  • Marion, IN

  • Orion, MI

  • Parma, OH

  • Pontiac, MI

  • Romulus, MI

  • Saginaw, MI

  • Spring Hill, TN

  • Toledo, OH

  • Wentzville, MO

GM will provide a one-time lump sum taxable stipend payment to eligible students selected for the 2027Student Program-to helpfacilitateadministration of relocation benefits, please apply using the permanent address you would move from.

Start dates for this internship role are May 24thand June 14thof 2027.

About GM

Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.

Why Join Us

We believe we all must make a choice every day - individually and collectively - to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.

Benefits Overview

From day one, we're looking out for your well-being-at work and at home-so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.

Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)

General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.

All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws.

We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.

Accommodations

General Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, email us or call us at 1-800-865-7580. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.


Working at General Motors


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About General Motors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Motors is a company with global scale and capabilities, headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, with employees around the world. The company employs over 165,000 people, serves six continents, operates across 22 time zones, and has a diverse workforce speaking 75 languages1. GM’s vision is to drive the world forward by pioneering innovations that move and connect people to what matters. The company is working towards an all-electric future with its new Ultium Platform and is pushing transportation options beyond our wildest imaginations with autonomous vehicles. GM is also committed to becoming the most inclusive company in the world.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Detroit, MI, US

Year founded

1908