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Controls Engineer Intern Jobs in Muskegon, MI (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 Muskegon, MI are hiring for Controls Engineer Intern jobs?

Cities near Muskegon, MI with the most Controls Engineer Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls Engineer Intern job openings in Muskegon, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Quality Intern - Summer 2026

Magna Services

Fremont, MI • On-site

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Mechatronics, Mirrors And Lighting Group

The Mechatronics, Mirrors and Lighting group specializes in automotive technologies that are driving the future of mobility. Combining a deep systems knowledge to develop unique vehicle access experiences, intelligent vision systems and advanced automotive lighting technologies, MML's expertise light the path to innovation, safety and styling.

Job Responsibilities:

Position Overview

Provides technical support for engineers working in such areas as design, development, testing or manufacturing process improvement. Work pertains to electrical, electronic, or mechanical components or equipment. Position requires some knowledge of engineering.

Performs assignments that are not completely standardized or prescribed. Selects or adapts standard procedures or equipment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Performs product testing of warranty returns utilizing various test procedures and equipment.
  • Facilitates problem solving of issues as they are found in the customer's warranty centers.
  • Issues, maintains and implements activities relating to corrective and/or preventative action. Provides input on causes or reasons for quality problems and recommends process changes if necessary. Assists in and/or leads customer driven root cause analysis processes (i.e. 5 Phase & 8D).
  • Visually inspects customer part returns and determines disposition on any non-conforming product (i.e. Company or customer origin). Gathers and summarizes data for monthly quality reports.
  • Perform and analyze DOE studies
  • Troubleshooting/developing/implementing solutions to design and production problems
  • Act as liaison between test lab and project engineer (test results, timing, etc.)
  • Investigate test failures and determine root cause of failures
  • Perform vibration studies and analyze data
  • Assist with prototype builds
  • Assist with product development
  • Build/Rework Parts (Outside mirrors, exterior door handles, light-bars, etc)
  • Perform gauge studies (KPI, capability, etc.
  • Test and measure parts
  • Manages / maintains reports of data as directed.
  • Performs other duties as necessary.

Qualifications:

  • Some related experience preferred

Education / Experience:

  • High School Diploma
  • Currently Attending a College or University

Special Knowledge / Skills:

  • Proficient Computer knowledge and skills, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Professional Communication skills (written and verbal)
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Demonstrated ability to work without direct supervision.
  • Demonstrated problem solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot processes and equipment.
  • Basic knowledge of standard work, in-process control sheets, and quality standards related to job.
  • Blueprint reading skills
  • Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot, update, and work on all processes/testing/customers in designated area of responsibility.
  • Demonstrated strong interpersonal and written/verbal communication skills to communicate with internal and external contacts and work in a team environment. Must be able to lead, train, and support other staff.
  • Strong project management and problem-solving skills to work on complex projects independently under minimal work direction.
  • Advanced SPC skills to analyze, draw conclusions, and recommend course of action.

Physical Demands / Work Environment:

Employee may be regularly required to talk or listen, stand, walk, sit, stoop, crawl and use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Must be able to operate in mentally and physically stressful situations. Prolonged sitting, typing and lifting up to 40 pounds.

Awareness, Unity, Empowerment:

At Magna, we believe that a diverse workforce is critical to our success. That's why we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We hire on the basis of experience and qualifications, and in consideration of job requirements, regardless of, in particular, color, ancestry, religion, gender, origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability or gender identity. Magna takes the privacy of your personal information seriously. We discourage you from sending applications via email or traditional mail to comply with GDPR requirements and your local Data Privacy Law.

Notice Regarding The Use Of AI:

As part of our commitment to a fair, consistent, and efficient recruitment process, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the initial screening of applications submitted through our Workday system.

These tools help identify qualifications and experience that align with the role requirements. Please note that AI is used solely to support our recruiters. Final decisions are always made by the hiring manager and the hiring team.

Importantly, no applicant data is shared externally through these AI tools. All information remains securely within our systems and is handled in accordance with our privacy and data protection policies.

If you have any questions or concerns about this process, feel free to contact our Talent Attraction team.

Worker Type:

Student / Co-Op

Group:

Magna Mechatronics, Mirrors & Lighting