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Instrumentation Intern Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Engineering intern

Sioux Center, IA · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

A Design Services intern will support Interstates with a variety of tasks and projects, gaining ... Instrumentation * Evaluate P&IDs (Process and Instrumentation Diagrams) to understand the process ...

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Instrumentation Intern information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do instrumentation intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrumentation intern in Iowa is $16.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an instrumentation intern do?

An Instrumentation Intern typically assists engineers and technicians in the installation, calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of instruments used to measure and control variables like pressure, temperature, and flow in industrial settings. They may help collect and analyze data, prepare technical reports, and support ongoing projects to ensure instrumentation systems function properly. This role provides hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and procedures, helping interns build foundational skills for a career in instrumentation engineering.

What is the difference between Instrumentation Intern vs Instrumentation Technician?

AspectInstrumentation InternInstrumentation Technician
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed relevant technical or engineering degreeVocational training, certifications, and some work experience
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, supervised, learning-focusedOperational facilities, maintenance, troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageInternships in manufacturing, energy, or process industriesIndustrial plants, oil & gas, manufacturing

The main difference is that an Instrumentation Intern is usually a student or recent graduate gaining hands-on experience, while an Instrumentation Technician is a trained professional responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting instrumentation systems in industrial settings.

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

To thrive as an Instrumentation Intern, you need a basic understanding of control systems, electronics, and instrumentation principles, often supported by coursework in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with tools like PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), data acquisition systems, and industry software such as LabVIEW or AutoCAD is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate findings effectively help interns excel in collaborative technical environments. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate data collection, safe operation, and effective support of engineering projects.

What types of projects and hands-on experiences can I expect as an instrumentation intern?

As an Instrumentation Intern, you can expect to work on a variety of projects involving the calibration, installation, and maintenance of instrumentation equipment. You'll likely assist engineering teams with collecting and analyzing data from sensors and control systems, participate in troubleshooting technical issues, and help document test procedures. This role offers valuable hands-on exposure to real-world industrial processes and the opportunity to collaborate closely with experienced engineers and technicians, which can significantly enhance your practical skills and industry knowledge.

What are the most commonly searched types of Instrumentation jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Instrumentation jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Instrumentation Intern jobs in Iowa?

For Instrumentation Intern jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Instrumentation Intern jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Instrumentation Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Instrumentation Intern job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,283 per year, or $16 per hour.

Engineering intern

Interstates

Sioux Center, IA • On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Internship

Posted yesterday

New


Interstates rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Take Charge of Your Career at Interstates
At Interstates, we don't just show up to work, we show up for each other. From our headquarters in Iowa to job sites across the country, we're doing award-winning electrical, controls, automation, and OT work that powers industrial facilities for clients here in the U.S. and around the world. Whether you're bending conduit, wiring panels, writing code, supporting projects, or helping things run behind the scenes, you'll be part of a crew that works hard, shares laughs, and takes pride in doing quality work. We believe in building strong teams, doing the right thing, and making a difference in the communities where we live. If you want to grow and do meaningful work, you'll feel at home here.
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.
What You Should Know Before You Apply
Interstates may collect personal information as part of your job application, such as your contact details, work history, education, and any information you provide. This information is used only for recruitment, to evaluate your candidacy, and to meet legal requirements. For details about our privacy practices and your rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), please see our Privacy Policy. By applying, you acknowledge that you have reviewed this notice.
Interstates is an EEO provider and offers a drug-free workplace. Employment at Interstates is at-will and may be terminated at any time with or without notice or cause, except as otherwise provided by law.

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