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Intern Engineer Jobs in Santa Maria, CA (NOW HIRING)

City of San Luis Obispo

Engineer I-III

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$82K - $121K/yr

... intern staff. EXAMPLES OF DUTIES EXAMPLES OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: (Any one position may not include all of the duties listed nor do the listed examples include all tasks that may be found in ...

All JobsIntern Engineer JobsIntern Engineer Jobs in Santa Maria, CA

Intern Engineer information

See Santa Maria, CA salary details

$11

$19

$30

How much do intern engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for intern engineer in Santa Maria, CA is $19.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $21.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an intern engineer do?

An Intern Engineer is a student or recent graduate who works under the supervision of experienced engineers to gain practical experience in their field. Their responsibilities typically include assisting with technical projects, conducting research, analyzing data, preparing reports, and learning industry-specific tools and software. Intern Engineers gain hands-on experience, develop professional skills, and often contribute to real-world engineering solutions while preparing for a future full-time role in engineering.

What types of projects or tasks are typically assigned to intern engineers, and how do these contribute to their learning and professional development?

Intern Engineers are often assigned a mix of hands-on technical tasks and supportive project work, such as assisting with design, testing prototypes, conducting research, or updating documentation. These tasks are designed to expose interns to real-world engineering challenges while allowing them to learn from experienced professionals. Interns frequently collaborate with engineers, project managers, and cross-functional teams, gaining insight into industry practices and teamwork. This practical experience not only builds technical skills but also helps interns develop communication, problem-solving, and project management abilities that are valuable for future career growth.

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

To thrive as an Intern Engineer, you typically need a foundational understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and progress toward a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks, along with basic knowledge of project management tools, is often expected. Strong communication, eagerness to learn, and teamwork set standout interns apart in fast-paced environments. These skills and qualities enable interns to contribute effectively, adapt to real-world challenges, and maximize their learning during the internship.

What is the difference between Intern Engineer vs Junior Engineer?

AspectIntern EngineerJunior Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed a degree; no professional certification requiredBachelor's degree in engineering; may have some certifications or licenses depending on the field
Work EnvironmentLearning-focused, supervised, often part-time or temporaryFull-time, professional setting with increasing responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by companies for training and experienceEntry-level position in engineering firms, manufacturing, or tech companies

The main difference between an Intern Engineer and a Junior Engineer is experience and responsibility. Intern Engineers are usually students or recent graduates gaining practical experience, while Junior Engineers are entry-level professionals with more responsibilities and a clearer career path.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Santa Maria, CA?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:

What cities near Santa Maria, CA are hiring for Intern Engineer jobs?

Cities near Santa Maria, CA with the most Intern Engineer job openings:

Intern Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Intern Engineer job openings in Santa Maria, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,180 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Project Engineer Intern

ITW Tire Repair

San Luis Obispo, CA

$22 - $28/hr

Temporary, Internship

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Description:

About Us

At ITW Global Tire Repair, we’re committed to helping interns grow through meaningful experiences. You’ll be supported with the tools and guidance to build your skills, contribute to real work, and explore your potential. Our core values—Integrity, Simplicity, Trust, Respect, and Shared Risk—guide how we work together. We encourage ownership, value diverse perspectives, and take pride in doing things the right way.

About Our Internship Program

As an intern at ITW Global Tire Repair, you’ll gain hands-on experience with our global brands through a project-based program that combines learning with real-world impact. Along the way, you’ll take on daily tasks that help you see how your team drives success, work with fellow interns on a community impact project, and wrap up the program by sharing your experience with division leadership.

Position Summary

ITW Global Tire Repair is seeking a Project Engineer Intern to support New Product Development (NPD) initiatives. This role will focus on technical documentation, product research, and continuous improvement of internal systems and processes.  The intern will gain hands-on experience supporting the product development lifecycle, collaborating cross-functionally, and contributing to meaningful process improvement initiatives.

Overview of Project Tasks

  • Maintain and continuously improve the technical library, ensuring documentation is accurate, organized, and up to date
  • Upload, organize, and audit specification sheets and technical documents; remove outdated content and identify gaps
  • Conduct competitive product research and support early-stage ideation and product development initiatives
  • Assist in evaluating new product concepts, materials, and opportunities for innovation
  • Identify and implement improvements to NPD systems and workflows, including updating internal training and education materials

Qualifications

  • Junior or senior pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Information Systems, or a related field
  • Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

Additional Information
This is a temporary position (Summer 2026), working approximately 15–20 hours per week in our San Luis Obispo, CA office.

Compensation Information:

Pay Range: $22–$28 per hour, depending on experience.

ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues’ unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential. 


As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship. 


All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

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