Automation Engineering Intern | Summer 2027

Van Meter•Cottage Grove, MN

8d•Hybrid

About The Position

If you're looking to gain hands-on experience in industrial automation engineering, solution design, and system implementation, this internship is for you. As an Automation Engineering Intern, you will work under the guidance of experienced Automation Solutions Engineers and technical experts, the intern will contribute to defined project assignments while building foundational knowledge of Van Meter’s engineering standards, delivery processes, and automation technologies. Throughout the internship, you will participate in customer-site activities under the direction of an assigned engineer and in accordance with company, customer, and site-specific safety requirements. This internship provides valuable experience working with automation technologies, engineering processes, and customer-focused solutions. Interns will collaborate with sales, technical, and engineering teams while developing technical expertise in automation systems, controls, integration, and industrial technologies. The role is ideal for individuals who are curious, analytical, team-oriented, and eager to learn through real-world project experiences. At Van Meter, our purpose is to Create Lasting Value for Those We Serve while fostering a high-performing, employee-owned organization. The company's culture is built around being "All-In," meaning employee-owners are encouraged to be the best in their roles, live the company's values, and actively support and protect a strong, people-centered culture. Employees are empowered through open communication, accountability, collaboration, and a shared commitment to delivering an exceptional employee and customer experience.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED
Currently a college sophomore, junior, or senior
Currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Automation, Robotics, or a related technical field
Comfortable utilizing AI tools and technology to support learning and project work
Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to organize work, manage priorities, and accept feedback
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Process oriented with strong attention to detail

Responsibilities

Complete an Electrical Distribution Orientation to understand Van Meter’s business, departments, supplier relationships, and customer solutions.
Work under the guidance of technical experts on defined engineering and project assignments.
Assist with application research, product selection, technical scoping, project estimation, BOM development, and preliminary solution documentation.
Prepare draft technical deliverables such as BOMs, drawings, configuration records, test documentation, and application notes for engineer review.
Support defined configuration, programming, testing, integration, startup, commissioning, and validation activities based on experience and assignment needs.
Participate in troubleshooting and technical-support activities, document findings, and escalate questions or risks to the assigned engineer.
Observe and assist with customer training, knowledge-transfer sessions, demonstrations, and technical presentations. Overnight travel is possible.
Collaborate with customers, suppliers, sales, project teams, and delivery partners while maintaining professional communication and appropriate confidentiality.
Follow engineering standards, documentation requirements, safety practices, and project processes.
Contribute to an engineering standard, reusable technical asset, documentation improvement, or process-improvement assignment.
Build foundational knowledge in selected automation technologies and applications through project work, mentoring, product training, and independent learning.
Summarize internship learning, technical contributions, and recommendations through a final presentation or documented project deliverable.