Hourly Avista Utilities Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SCADA & Controls Technician Intern

Elkridge, MD

Avista Realtime Systems is seeking a motivated SCADA & Controls Technician Intern to join our growing automation and integration team.

This is a paid, hands-on internship designed for individuals interested in industrial automation, electrical controls, networking, PLCs, and SCADA systems. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to transition into a full-time role as a SCADA Technician or Controls Engineer.

You will work on real-world utility, transit, water, and energy projects involving industrial control panels, SCADA systems, networking equipment, PLCs, instrumentation, and field commissioning.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Assist with assembly, modification and wiring of industrial control panels
• Support PLC and SCADA system testing and troubleshooting
• Help configure industrial networking and communications equipment
• Assist engineers during factory and field-testing activities
• Participate in startup and commissioning at customer sites
• Read and work from electrical drawings and schematics
• Support diagnostics, troubleshooting, and system validation

Minimum Education Requirement

• Associate degree (2-year degree) in one of the following or similar fields:
  • Electrical Engineering Technology
  • Computer Engineering Technology
  • Industrial Automation
  • Mechatronics
  • Electronics Technology
  • Technical trade or industrial technology programs

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on electrical, controls, or networking experience
• Ability to read electrical drawings and schematics
• Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA, instrumentation, or industrial communications is a plus
• Military technical experience is a plus
• Valid driver’s license

What We’re Looking For

• Strong interest in automation, controls, industrial systems, or electrical technology
• Comfortable working hands-on with tools, wiring, and equipment
• Willingness to learn and take initiative
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to occasionally travel to customer sites

What Makes This Opportunity Different

• Work on real critical infrastructure projects
• Exposure to advanced SCADA, PLC, and industrial networking systems
• Hands-on training from experienced engineers and technicians
• Opportunity for overtime and field experience
• Clear path toward full-time employment and career growth
• Exposure to modern technologies used in utilities, transportation, water, and energy systems

Compensation & Benefits

• Paid internship
• Competitive hourly compensation
• Overtime opportunities when applicable
• Potential transition to full-time employment
• Long-term career growth opportunities within the company

About Us

Avista Realtime Systems is a SCADA systems integrator and UL 508A control panel manufacturer specializing in utility, transit, water, energy, and industrial automation projects throughout the United States.

Avista Realtime Systems, LLC is a growing SCADA, controls, and automation company based in the DC Metro area. For more than 18 years, we’ve delivered mission-critical solutions to the power, water, transit, renewable energy, and government sectors.

We design and integrate advanced real-time systems that help utilities and infrastructure operators improve reliability, efficiency, and security. From control system engineering and panel fabrication to software development and cloud-enabled monitoring, Avista provides end-to-end solutions tailored to complex projects.

Our team is built on collaboration, innovation, and impact. At Avista, you’ll work alongside engineers, project managers, and industry experts to support clients who power communities and drive the future of energy and infrastructure.