1

Engineering Intern Jobs in Columbus, IN (NOW HIRING)

Plant Engineering Intern - Summer 2027

Shelbyville, IN ยท On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

The Plant Engineering Intern troubleshoots and identifies process needs to maintain production levels and assists in the development of predictive and preventative maintenance programs. This is an on ...

The Plant Engineering Intern troubleshoots and identifies process needs to maintain production levels and assists in the development of predictive and preventative maintenance programs. This is an on ...

Industrial Engineering Intern

Columbus, IN

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Our Clean Mobility Division is looking for a year-round Industrial Engineering Intern for its manufacturing facility in Columbus, IN. Your mission, roles and responsibilities Some of the activities ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Engineering Intern information

See Columbus, IN salary details

$10

$17

$27

How much do engineering intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for engineering intern in Columbus, IN is $17.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an engineering intern?

Engineering Interns are students or recent graduates who work temporarily at a company to gain practical experience in the engineering field. They assist with various engineering tasks, such as conducting research, drafting technical documents, supporting design and development projects, and collaborating with experienced engineers. These internships help students apply their classroom knowledge to real-world situations and prepare them for full-time engineering roles after graduation.

What does an engineering intern do?

An engineering intern is a student or recent graduate of an engineering program who is gaining hands-on experience in their field through an internship program. Interns in most fields, including engineering, are paid very little and sometimes work only for academic credit. The value is in the experience gained working alongside experienced professionals. In engineering, interns will find that they have an opportunity begin to specialize their skills in an otherwise broad field. They will conduct basic engineering tasks, under supervision, as well as various administrative duties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an engineering intern?

To thrive as an Engineering Intern, you typically need a background in engineering fundamentals, strong problem-solving abilities, and enrollment in or completion of an engineering degree program. Familiarity with technical tools such as CAD software, MATLAB, or project management systems is often required. Strong communication, willingness to learn, and teamwork skills help interns adapt quickly and contribute effectively. These skills ensure that interns can support engineering teams, learn from real-world projects, and build a solid foundation for future roles in the field.

How do engineering interns typically collaborate with full-time engineers during their internship?

Engineering Interns often work closely with full-time engineers by assisting on ongoing projects, attending team meetings, and participating in code reviews or design discussions. They may be paired with a mentor or supervisor who provides regular guidance and feedback. This collaborative environment helps interns develop technical skills, understand workplace expectations, and build professional relationships that can be valuable for future career growth.

What is the difference between Engineering Intern vs Engineering Technician?

AspectEngineering InternEngineering Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed a bachelor's degree in engineeringAssociate degree or technical certification in engineering technology
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in office settings, labs, or on-site project locationsHands-on technical work in labs, manufacturing, or field sites
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by engineering firms, companies, and government agenciesFull-time roles in manufacturing, construction, and engineering services
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level engineering experienceCompared for technical support roles in engineering projects

The main difference between an Engineering Intern and an Engineering Technician lies in their education, work focus, and employment status. Interns are usually students gaining initial experience, while Technicians are trained professionals performing technical tasks. Both roles support engineering projects but serve different stages of career development and technical responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineering jobs in Columbus, IN?

The most popular types of Engineering jobs in Columbus, IN are:

What are popular job titles related to Engineering Intern jobs in Columbus, IN?

For Engineering Intern jobs in Columbus, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Engineering Intern jobs in Columbus, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Engineering Intern jobs in Columbus, IN are:

What cities near Columbus, IN are hiring for Engineering Intern jobs?

Cities near Columbus, IN with the most Engineering Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Engineering Intern job openings in Columbus, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Internship, 80% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,364 per year, or $18 per hour.

Plant Engineering Intern - Summer 2027

POET LLC

Shelbyville, IN โ€ข On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

ABOUT POET
At POET, it is our mission to be good stewards of the Earth by converting renewable resources to energy and other valuable goods as effectively as humanly possible. For over thirty years our drive and passion to change the world has enabled us to become the largest producer and marketer of bioethanol and a leader in sustainable products in the world.
PERKS
  • A multifaceted wellness program encompassing the whole person - mentally, physically, and spiritually
  • 'Family-first' culture
  • On-site fitness centers or fitness reimbursements

JOB SUMMARY & RESPONSIBILITIES
The Plant Engineering Intern works closely with the Plant Manager and the Maintenance Manager to maximize efficiencies of plant operations while optimizing plant run time. The Plant Engineering Intern troubleshoots and identifies process needs to maintain production levels and assists in the development of predictive and preventative maintenance programs.
This is an on-site role located in Shelbyville, INSome or all of the following projects/research/initiatives relating to plant operations may be assigned throughout the duration of the internship:
  • Efficiencies
  • Maintenance
  • Process Optimization
  • Operations
  • Compile & Analyze data
  • Location-specific research
  • Environmental Compliance

Additional responsibilities include:
  • Work with the Plant Manager and Maintenance Manager on operation/troubleshooting issues, as well as efforts to review and enhance predictive maintenance programs.
  • Work with the maintenance department and outside vendors to assist in the ongoing development of the preventative maintenance program. The Plant Engineering Intern will determine applicable equipment, necessary tools, and required inspection frequencies.
  • Work with the management team to further strengthen and develop plant operating procedures.
  • Maintain confidentiality relating to projects and processes.
  • Foster a culture of safe behavior and environmental compliance at all times.
  • Maintain a team environment at all times and champion POET in the community.
  • Since we're all about teamwork and getting the job done, your skills may be put to a lot of other uses!

The POET Never Satisfied Internship openings are for Summer 2027. We post Internships in early September with the intention of having interns selected by November 1st.
QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Junior or Senior-level student enrolled full-time at an accredited 4-year college/university pursuing a degree in Chemical, Mechanical, or Agricultural Engineering.
  • Must be able to work a variety of shifts, minimum of 40 hours/week.
  • Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills, as well as the ability to adapt to change
  • Knowledge of the basics of Microsoft Office Suite and the ability to learn new programs.
  • Bonus points: familiarity or experience with DCS control and DCS historian systems

A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE
  • High level of personal integrity
  • Interpersonal skills - ability to effectively interact with individuals at all levels within/outside the organization
  • Demonstrated problem-solving and critical thinking skills
  • Ability to embrace and promote change
  • Innovative mindset
  • Ability to think objectively
  • Self-awareness in the face of uncertainty
  • Ability to work in a team environment

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • This role has some physical requirements that our team members will need to be able to perform, such as:
    • Occasionally lifting weight up to sixty (60) pounds.
    • Climbing several flights of stairs and ladders.
    • Opening valves.
    • Occasionally bending, twisting and turning while lifting weight of less than fifty (50) pounds.
    • Data entry while seated for greater than one (1) hour.
    • Walking up to two (2) or more miles per day
    • Pushing brooms, shovels, etc.
    • Working at heights, in confined spaces and at temperatures from -20 to +100 degrees.
    • Standing for extended periods of time.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Occasional travel will be part of the norm for this position. At times, overnight travel may be required.
  • Team members will be required to adhere to all safety requirements at all times and in all work environments. This position is exposed to work in multiple environments, including plant, laboratory, as well as an office environment. The team member may be exposed to high noise levels, moving mechanical parts, dusty conditions, internal and external temperature/weather conditions, and chemicals.

CULTURE IS KING AT POET
We're all on the same team. We always communicate. And we park our egos at the door. These aren't just slogans on our walls. It's the way we do things at POET. We provide an environment for team members to maintain a healthy work-life balance. It's the best way to optimize health, wellness, and productivity in a sustainable way. We work hard. We play hard. We have frequent team events, volunteer efforts, and we know how to celebrate wins!
GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES
At POET we encourage internal development and growth by allowing team members to carve their own path to success. Leaders support team members with the necessary resources to develop their skills, achieve goals, and create the most value. We believe in developing our team members to their highest potential and recognizing contributions that add value to the organization. Each new team member's position and compensation are carefully determined by considering their unique qualifications and skillset.
POET is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to maintaining a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, abilities, merit, and other legitimate business factors, without regard to any legally protected characteristic. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, working conditions, promotion, and termination.