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

Intern - Columbus 2026

Columbus, OH · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/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.

Intern - Columbus 2026

Columbus, OH · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/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.

Survey the grade and topography for various engineering projects. * Types of field surveys include ... Surveyor Intern or Professional Land Surveyor preferred but not required. Physical Requirements The ...

Survey the grade and topography for various engineering projects. * Types of field surveys include ... Surveyor Intern or Professional Land Surveyor preferred but not required. Physical Requirements The ...

Survey the grade and topography for various engineering projects. * Types of field surveys include ... Surveyor Intern or Professional Land Surveyor preferred but not required. Physical Requirements The ...

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 Columbus, OH? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer Intern jobs in Columbus, OH? For Controls Engineer Intern jobs in Columbus, OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer Intern jobs in Columbus, OH look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer Intern jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Controls Engineer Intern jobs? Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Controls Engineer Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer Intern job openings in Columbus, OH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Automation Engineering Intern (Summer 2027!)

CDM Smith

Columbus, OH • On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Temporary

Posted 7 days ago


CDM Smith rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 446 rated engineering


Job description

Company Overview
Check out this video and find out why our team loves to work here!
Join Us! CDM Smith - where amazing career journeys unfold.
Imagine a place committed to offering an unmatched employee experience. Where you work on projects that are meaningful to you. Where you play an active part in shaping your career journey. Where your co-workers are invested in you and your success. Where you are encouraged and supported to do your very best and given the tools and resources to do so. Where it's a priority that the company takes good care of you and your family.
Our employees are the heart of our company. As an employer of choice, our goal is to provide a challenging, progressive and inclusive work environment which fosters personal leadership, career growth and development for every employee. We value passionate individuals who challenge the norm, deliver world-class solutions and bring diverse perspectives. Join our team, and together we will make a difference and change the world.
Job Description
CDM Smith is looking for an Automation (Instrumentation & Controls) Engineering intern to join our team in Summer 2027! You'll be working with a dynamic team of industry leading engineers on a diverse portfolio of public, federal, and industrial projects. CDM Smith's Automation and Instrumentation division consists of staff of various disciplines including process, chemical, and electrical engineering which allows us to bring a wide range of knowledge to each project. Our services include: SCADA System Design Instrumentation Design 3D/4D P&ID Drawing Creation Process Design and Optimization Control Network Design Wired and Wireless Communication Security System Design Legacy System Replacement
In this role you would perform a variety of tasks including:
  • Developing process and instrumentation diagrams, electrical component interconnection diagrams, control system databases, process control graphics, and controller programming.
  • You will be involved with all phases of control systems projects starting with designing, development, testing, integrating and starting up of these systems.

Qualifications
Currently enrolled and taking courses toward a Bachelors or Masters in Chemical, Electrical, Computer Engineering or a related engineering field is required.
Amount of Travel Required
10% or less
EEO Statement
We attract the best people in the industry, supporting their efforts to learn and grow. We strive to create a challenging and progressive work environment. We provide career opportunities that span a variety of disciplines and geographic locations, with projects that our employees plan, design, build and operate as diverse as the needs of our clients. CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, pregnancy related conditions, childbirth and related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression), national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Evergreen Disclaimer
Please note, this is a pipeline position for future needs and is not an immediate vacancy.
Background Check and Drug Testing Information
CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries (hereafter collectively referred to as "CDM Smith") reserves the right to require background checks including criminal, employment, education, licensure, etc. as well as credit and motor vehicle when applicable for certain positions. In addition, CDM Smith may conduct drug testing for designated positions. Background checks are conducted after an offer of employment has been made in the United States. The timing of when background checks will be conducted on candidates for positions outside the United States will vary based on country statutory law but in no case, will the background check precede an interview. CDM Smith will conduct interviews of qualified individuals prior to requesting a criminal background check, and no job application submitted prior to such interview shall inquire into an applicant's criminal history. If this position is subject to a background check for any convictions related to its responsibilities and requirements, employment will be contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history. Criminal history will not automatically disqualify a candidate. In addition, during employment individuals may be required by CDM Smith or a CDM Smith client to successfully complete additional background checks, including motor vehicle record as well as drug testing.
Massachusetts Applicants
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Pay Range Min
USD $23.68
Pay Range Max
USD $40.20
Additional Pay Range Information
CDM Smith is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. This pay range is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels for the geographic location assigned to the position. In addition to geographic location, a candidate's salary is determined by several other factors including, but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, relevant work experience, skills, required certifications, and education/training.
Additional Compensation
All bonuses at CDM Smith are discretionary and may or may not apply to this position.
Visa Sponsorship Available
No-We will not support sponsorship in the United States, i.e. H-1B or TN Visas for this position
Agency Disclaimer
All vendors must have a signed CDM Smith Placement Agreement from the CDM Smith Talent Acquisition Manager to receive payment for your placement. Verbal or written commitments from any other member of the CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries staff will not be considered binding terms. All unsolicited resumes sent to CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries and any resume submitted to any employee outside of CDM Smith Talent Acquisition Team will be considered property of CDM Smith. CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries will not be held liable to pay a placement fee.

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About CDM Smith

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CDM Smith is a distinguished name in the engineering and construction industry, providing insightful consulting, designing, and execution services. Based in Boston, Massachusetts, US, this full-service engineering and construction firm was founded in 1947 and has been contributing to the national and global infrastructure ever since. Serving across diverse sectors like transportation, environment, water, energy, and facilities, they have built a reputation for excellence. The company firmly stands on its mission of delivering lasting, superior solutions to the world's complex challenges, thereby ensuring their clients create a transformative impact.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cambridge, MA, US

Year founded

1947