Controls Engineer Intern

GKN Automotive • Newton, NC

3d • Onsite

About The Position

What You’ll Do Assist in designing, developing, and testing PLC-, HMI-, and SCADA-based control systems by supporting modern PLC upgrades for automated production lines. Develop and maintain a device Function Block for a modern PLC. Support traceability updates by deploying and contributing to the Lap and Test Paperless Project. Contribute to an Ignition Project for a standardized application to view part status and history. Help evaluate and improve system performance through data collection, analysis, and troubleshooting . Assist with root-cause analysis for equipment issues and propose engineering solutions. Support continuous improvement initiatives related to safety, efficiency, and quality. What We’re Looking For Local candidates, currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, Robotics, or related field . Coursework or experience with PLCs, HMIs, sensors, and industrial control equipment. Basic understanding of electrical circuits, ladder logic, and automation principles. Familiarity with programming languages such as Ladder Logic, Structured Text, Function Block , or C-based languages (a plus). Experience with CAD software or engineering documentation (preferred). Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment. Willingness to learn and take initiative on technical projects. What You’ll Gain Hands‑on experience with real industrial control systems and automation equipment. Exposure to modern manufacturing technologies and continuous improvement processes. Mentorship from experienced controls and automation engineers. Opportunities to contribute to meaningful engineering projects that impact production. Networking and professional development within the organization. Work Environment On-site role in a manufacturing or engineering environment. May involve time on the plant floor around industrial equipment. Standard daytime hours with occasional flexibility based on project needs. How to Apply Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in controls engineering and any relevant coursework or experience.

Requirements

• Local candidates, currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, Robotics, or related field .
• Coursework or experience with PLCs, HMIs, sensors, and industrial control equipment.
• Basic understanding of electrical circuits, ladder logic, and automation principles.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to learn and take initiative on technical projects.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with programming languages such as Ladder Logic, Structured Text, Function Block , or C-based languages (a plus).
• Experience with CAD software or engineering documentation (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Assist in designing, developing, and testing PLC-, HMI-, and SCADA-based control systems by supporting modern PLC upgrades for automated production lines.
• Develop and maintain a device Function Block for a modern PLC.
• Support traceability updates by deploying and contributing to the Lap and Test Paperless Project.
• Contribute to an Ignition Project for a standardized application to view part status and history.
• Help evaluate and improve system performance through data collection, analysis, and troubleshooting .
• Assist with root-cause analysis for equipment issues and propose engineering solutions.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to safety, efficiency, and quality.

Benefits

• Hands‑on experience with real industrial control systems and automation equipment.
• Exposure to modern manufacturing technologies and continuous improvement processes.
• Mentorship from experienced controls and automation engineers.
• Opportunities to contribute to meaningful engineering projects that impact production.
• Networking and professional development within the organization.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees