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Controls Engineer Intern Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Summer 2026 Intern - VA/DC

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$15.50 - $20.75/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.

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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 Reston, VA? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer Intern jobs in Reston, VA? For Controls Engineer Intern jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Controls Engineer Intern jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Controls Engineer Intern job openings:
Engineering Internship (44312)

Engineering Internship (44312)

Collins Engineers Inc.

Fairfax, VA โ€ข On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Other

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Calling all undergrad civil engineering students!
Collins is offering an opportunity for a civil engineering student to gain experience doing structural inspections. The Fairfax, VA, office has an opening for a Structural Engineering Intern position for the Summer of 2026. This position will be a combination of office and time in the field.
This position will provide the opportunity to work on structural projects, including bridge and ancillary inspections. Also, prepare and/or check structural calculations. We offer plenty of opportunities for growth, working with professionals who have decades of experience developing industry-defining techniques.
Who we are:
Collins Engineer, Inc., provides design and analysis services coupled with field experience to the transportation, marine, construction, and land development industries. We pride ourselves in fostering collaboration and an environment where each employee is an integral part of a team, not just another number.
Click HERE to see the variety of benefits Collins has to offer.
What We're Looking For:
โ€ข Junior or senior working towards a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from an accredited university.
โ€ข Previous software experience in AutoCAD, MicroStation, Bluebeam, or Civil 3D is a plus.
โ€ข Previous software experience in Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe PDF or other PDF editing software is a plus.
โ€ข A valid driver's license.
Physical Demands:
  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms.
  • The employee frequently is required to talk or hear.
  • The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.