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Controls Engineer Intern Jobs in Omaha, NE (NOW HIRING)

Engineering intern

Omaha, NE · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

A Design Services intern will support Interstates with a variety of tasks and projects, gaining ... Controls * Design Automation Control Panels including PLC, and Remote I/O Panels and Low Voltage ...

New

Engineering intern

Omaha, NE · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

A Design Services intern will support Interstates with a variety of tasks and projects, gaining ... Controls * Design Automation Control Panels including PLC, and Remote I/O Panels and Low Voltage ...

New

Engineering intern

Omaha, NE · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

A Design Services intern will support Interstates with a variety of tasks and projects, gaining ... Controls * Design Automation Control Panels including PLC, and Remote I/O Panels and Low Voltage ...

New

Job Summary The Intern will complete hands-on experience and develop valuable skills that ... other engineering controls to minimize the risk of exposure or other hazardous occurrence.

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 Omaha, NE?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Omaha, NE are:

Infographic showing various Controls Engineer Intern job openings in Omaha, NE as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Engineering intern

Interstates

Omaha, NE • On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Internship

Posted 3 days ago

New


Interstates rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

A Design Services intern will support Interstates with a variety of tasks and projects, gaining hands-on experience in industrial electrical design and construction. This role offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a dynamic, hands-on learning environment, working alongside seasoned professionals, develop an electrical construction vocabulary. Individuals will be actively involved in real projects, engaging with our teams as they work on current initiatives moving through the pipeline. This is an excellent opportunity to get an in-depth education in a specific electrical discipline as well as business operations, project management, safety, and other valuable skills that will be instrumental in your future career.

Primary Duties:

  • Equipment Lists - Collect data and review received information that represent the scope of the project
  • Design - Record design decisions in software like InterTrak (internal equipment list software) to facilitate design drawings and equipment specifications
  • Drawings - Use 2D and 3D drafting software to develop electrical drawings used to communicate project scope to the contractors or fabricators
  • Professional Communication - Utilize various software to provide clear communication with team members and clients regarding project updates

Secondary Duties:

  • Travel to job-sites or shop and work alongside the craft or manufacturing team as tasks/projects are completed
  • Network within Interstates industries to promote the Interstates brand and further promote our position as a premier provider of engineering services
  • In all aspects of the position, this role will carry out his/her duties in compliance with organizational policy and applicable laws
  • Other duties as assigned

Discipline Emphases - Each internship will focus on one of the following:

  • Studies
    • Utilize SKM to complete power system models and execute Arc Flash, Coordination, and Short Circuit analysis
    • Write reports to communicate the electrical hazards present, precautionary measures, and remediation recommendations
  • Power
    • Develop the electrical distribution plan to bring power from the utility to the utilization equipment (motors, devices, lights, and receptacles)
    • Use AutoCAD and Revit to develop electrical drawings communicating the scope of the project
  • PDP (Planning Design & Prefab)
    • Develop a constructible plan that facilitates successful off-site prefabrication and on-site installation of electrical systems
    • Use Revit to develop 3D BIM models and produce installation or manufacturing documents 
  • Controls
    • Design Automation Control Panels including PLC, and Remote I/O Panels and Low Voltage (480VAC) Motor Control Panels
    • Design electrical schematics and wiring diagrams for connections to field instrumentation
  • Instrumentation
    • Evaluate P&IDs (Process and Instrumentation Diagrams) to understand the process and validate device requirements
    • Size and select industrial measurement and control devices (Temp Transmitters, Flowmeters, Pressure Gauges, Hazard Monitoring, etc.) 
  • Field
    • Deliver elements of the above disciplines while working on-site alongside construction personnel
    • Aid in the design/build process by gathering field information and validating project design

Education and/or Experience:

  • 0-4 years of electrical experience/education, be working towards an engineering degree. Additionally, candidates pursuing a drafting degree from a technical college will be considered.

Preferred Skills:

  • Good communication (verbal, written, listening) and teamwork skills
  • Knowledge of, or interest in, manufacturing, industrial, and electrical systems
  • Ability to work with superintendents, engineers, estimators, and customers

Travel: Travel may be required and will vary according to business requirements and internship.


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