1

Internship Programmable Logic Controller Jobs in Washington

Senior Automation and Controls Engineer

Fairfax, VA · Hybrid

$106K - $139K/yr

... programmable logic controllers (PLC), reporting software, historians and historical data collection, etc. Preparing level of effort estimates (LOEs). Network design, utilizing control system ...

Experience with power management ICs (PMICs), sequencing controllers, and power monitors. * Firmware or programmable logic experience for relay control and power state machines (embedded C/C++, FPGA ...

Develop basic understanding of Human-Machine Interface (HMI) and Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) applications. * Practice procedures outlined in the company's Quality Management System (QMS)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Internship Programmable Logic Controller information

What is the difference between Internship Programmable Logic Controller vs Electrical Engineering Intern?

AspectInternship Programmable Logic ControllerElectrical Engineering Intern
Required CredentialsBasic knowledge of PLC programming, technical courseworkMajor in electrical engineering or related field, coursework in circuits and systems
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation facilitiesDesign labs, engineering departments, industrial sites
Employer & Industry UsageAutomation companies, manufacturing firmsEngineering firms, utility companies, industrial sectors
Comparison Search IntentYesNo

The Internship Programmable Logic Controller focuses on hands-on experience with PLC programming and automation systems, often within manufacturing environments. In contrast, an Electrical Engineering Intern has a broader scope, involving circuit design, electrical systems, and general engineering principles. While both roles may overlap in industrial settings, PLC internships are more specialized in automation technology, making them a targeted choice for those interested in control systems.

What types of projects or tasks can an intern expect to work on during a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) internship?

During a PLC internship, interns typically assist with designing, programming, and testing automation systems that use PLCs in industrial settings. You may be involved in writing and troubleshooting ladder logic, configuring hardware, and supporting senior engineers during equipment installation or upgrades. Interns often participate in hands-on tasks such as wiring control panels, running simulations, and documenting system changes. This role also offers opportunities to collaborate closely with engineers, electricians, and technicians, giving you practical exposure to real-world automation challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Internship Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an intern specializing in Programmable Logic Controllers, you generally need a background in electrical engineering or automation, along with foundational knowledge of PLC programming concepts. Familiarity with industry-standard PLC platforms (such as Siemens or Allen-Bradley), ladder logic, and simulation software is typically expected. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and a willingness to learn are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure you can effectively support automation projects, troubleshoot issues, and contribute to reliable industrial system operations.

What is an Internship in Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)?

An Internship in Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is a temporary position designed for students or recent graduates to gain practical experience working with PLC systems used in industrial automation. Interns learn to program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLCs, often assisting in designing automation solutions for manufacturing or process industries. This hands-on experience helps them understand real-world applications of PLCs, work with industry-standard hardware and software, and develop valuable technical and problem-solving skills for a career in automation or controls engineering.
What job categories do people searching Internship Programmable Logic Controller jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Internship Programmable Logic Controller jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Internship Programmable Logic Controller jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Internship Programmable Logic Controller job openings:
Senior Automation and Controls Engineer

Senior Automation and Controls Engineer

CDM Smith

Fairfax, VA • Hybrid

$106K - $139K/yr

Other

Posted 26 days ago


CDM Smith rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 352 rated engineering


Job description

CDM Smith is seeking a Senior Automation and Controls Engineer to join a great team of motivated Automation engineers in our Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. The successful candidate will be enthusiastic about building client relationships, mentoring junior level staff and delivering quality technical products on time and on budget. CDM Smith has been a leader in providing Automation design and programming services for over 30 years.

The selected candidate will be an integral part of our team to assist with growing our business in collaboration with our automation client service leader in the Fairfax office. Join us.
As a key member of the Automation team, you will contribute to CDM Smith's mission by:
With high-level goals provided, creating basic to highly complex instrumentation, controls and related systems designs by developing Process and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) and giving direction to junior staff who utilize 3D and 4D drafting programs .

Developing basic technical memoranda related to design issues for clients. Preparing preliminary design reports (PDRs) under limited supervision. Working with clients to define user requirements and preparing and documenting technical requirements to be used by programmers.
Reviewing basic to highly complex component level shop drawings

Providing responses to requests for information (RFIs) under supervision. Performing witnessed factory testing (WFTs), field acceptance testing (FATs) and field inspections.
With high-level goals provided, creating basic to highly complex designs that utilize human-machine interface (HMI)software, SCADA hardware (servers, workstations), network equipment (firewalls, routers, switches), programmable logic controllers (PLC), reporting software, historians and historical data collection, etc. Preparing level of effort estimates (LOEs).
Network design, utilizing control system architecture diagrams/drawings to convey network requirements for CAT6 and Fiber Optic Ethernet connections to HMI/SCADA equipment, PLCs, power monitors, VFDs, networked field instruments, etc.
Leading testing and startup team for basic to moderately complex instrumentation, controls and related systems independently with minimal supervision

Being responsible for testing and startup documentation completion and quality assurance filing.
Independently developing basic to highly complex Operations & Maintenance manuals for designed instrumentation, controls and related systems.
Independently developing systems training for end users. Developing training plans for all level of client's organization.
Leading teams of more junior staff and provides direction and mentoring. Reviewing the work of junior staff as necessary

Providing feedback on client relationships and career issues.
Leading the development of proposals and client presentations. Developing opportunities to expand contracts with existing clients.
Performs other duties as required.
#LI-LP2
#LI-HYBRID


What CDM Smith employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


CDM Smith logo

About CDM Smith

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CDM Smith is a distinguished name in the engineering and construction industry, providing insightful consulting, designing, and execution services. Based in Boston, Massachusetts, US, this full-service engineering and construction firm was founded in 1947 and has been contributing to the national and global infrastructure ever since. Serving across diverse sectors like transportation, environment, water, energy, and facilities, they have built a reputation for excellence. The company firmly stands on its mission of delivering lasting, superior solutions to the world's complex challenges, thereby ensuring their clients create a transformative impact.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cambridge, MA, US

Year founded

1947