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Hardware Design Engineer Intern Jobs in Ames, IA

Olsson

Civil Engineer - Site Design

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Must obtain Engineer Intern (EI) certificate * Knowledge of Civil 3D #LI-DNP Additional Information Olsson specializes in engineering and design, client advisory services, planning, field services ...

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RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

RFA Engineering ( www.rfamec.com ) supports industry-leading clients through the full software ... hardware in the loop. * Creation of software design documentation. Requirements * Bachelor's or ...

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Hardware Design Engineer Intern information

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How much do hardware design engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for hardware design engineer intern in Ames, IA is $18.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a hardware design engineer intern do?

A Hardware Design Engineer Intern assists in the development and testing of electronic hardware components and systems, such as circuit boards, processors, and embedded systems. They work under the supervision of experienced engineers, helping with schematic design, PCB layout, prototyping, and debugging. Their tasks may also include performing simulations, documenting designs, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. This role provides hands-on experience in the hardware development process and helps interns learn industry standards and tools.

What types of projects can a hardware design engineer intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Hardware Design Engineer Intern, you can expect to be involved in projects such as circuit board design, prototyping, testing, and debugging of hardware components. Interns often assist with schematic capture, PCB layout, and collaborating with senior engineers to validate and optimize hardware designs. These projects provide hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and foster collaboration with cross-functional teams, including firmware and mechanical engineers. This exposure helps build a strong technical foundation and prepares you for more advanced engineering roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hardware design engineer intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hardware Design Engineer Intern, you need a solid understanding of electronics, circuit design, and hardware fundamentals, usually supported by coursework or a degree in electrical or computer engineering. Familiarity with CAD tools such as Altium Designer, OrCAD, or Mentor Graphics, along with basic proficiency in hardware description languages, is typically expected. Strong problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set standout candidates apart. These skills ensure that interns can contribute meaningfully to design projects, troubleshoot issues, and collaborate efficiently in fast-paced engineering environments.

What is the difference between Hardware Design Engineer Intern vs Hardware Design Engineer?

AspectHardware Design Engineer InternHardware Design Engineer
Required CredentialsEnrolled in or recent graduate of Electrical or Computer EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in tech or manufacturing companiesFull-time professional role in hardware development teams
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in tech, electronics, and semiconductor industries for entry-level rolesFull-time positions in similar industries, focusing on product development

The main difference between a Hardware Design Engineer Intern and a Hardware Design Engineer lies in experience level and responsibilities. Interns are typically students or recent graduates gaining practical experience, while engineers are full-time professionals responsible for designing and developing hardware products.

What are popular job titles related to Hardware Design Engineer Intern jobs in Ames, IA?

For Hardware Design Engineer Intern jobs in Ames, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Hardware Design Engineer Intern jobs in Ames, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Hardware Design Engineer Intern jobs in Ames, IA are:

Hardware Design Engineer Intern jobs near you

Intern Firmware Engineering

Generac Power Systems Inc

Nevada, IA • On-site

$51.58/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

We believe power is a promise - a shared commitment to be there for others when it matters most. For more than 65 years, we've turned big ideas into solutions that help protect homes, strengthen businesses and build a more resilient, efficient, sustainable energy future.

Join Generac’s Residential Power Electronics team as a Firmware Engineering Intern in Reno, NV, and help power the future of clean energy.

In this hands‑on role, you’ll contribute to embedded firmware development for new products, support existing systems, and gain real lab experience testing physical hardware. It’s a great opportunity to apply your academic knowledge to real‑world engineering challenges while working with cutting‑edge technology and experienced teams. This internship is 5 days a week on‑site in Reno, NV.

What You Will Do
  • Support firmware development for embedded controllers using C and C++.
  • Assist with creating and maintaining firmware modules and supporting documentation.
  • Contribute to test specification development for new systems and firmware.
  • Conduct and evaluate firmware and hardware testing in the lab.
  • Participate in design reviews and learn from experienced firmware engineers.
  • Use simulation tools and Python scripting for tooling and automation tasks.
  • Support troubleshooting of designs alongside cross‑functional engineering teams.
  • Take ownership of a defined project that delivers tangible value to the team by the end of the internship.
What You Will Learn
  • Embedded firmware development for real‑world residential power electronics products.
  • Hands‑on lab testing methodologies for firmware and hardware integration.
  • How firmware engineering integrates with broader system design (engines, transfer switches, alternators, and other core engineering teams).
  • Industry tools and practices for firmware build, deployment, version control, and CI/CD.
  • The fundamentals of clean energy product development at Generac.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related engineering discipline.
  • Coursework or project experience in embedded programming with C or C++.
  • Strong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly in writing and verbally.
  • Comfortable working in a hands‑on lab environment.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Familiarity with Python for scripting or automation.
  • Prior project experience with physical embedded systems (academic, personal, or internship).
  • Exposure to CI/CD concepts or version control tools (Git).
  • Coursework or interest in residential power electronics, energy systems, or controls.
  • Interest in clean energy technology.
  • Willingness to learn AI tools in a production development environment.
Knowledge / Skills / Abilities
  • Ability to perform detail‑oriented work with a high degree of accuracy.
  • Ability to translate technical information to varied audiences.
  • Foundational understanding of engineering principles.
  • Comfortable with structured problem‑solving and willing to ask questions.
  • Growing knowledge of communication protocols and hardware interfaces.
Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear; and use hands to manipulate objects or controls. The employee is regularly required to stand and walk. On occasion the incumbent may be required to stoop, bend or reach above the shoulders. The employee must occasionally lift up to 25 - 50 pounds. Specific conditions of this job are typical of frequent and continuous computer‑based work requiring periods of sitting, close vision and ability to adjust focus.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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