Industrial Sales Intern | Summer 2027

Van Meter • Cedar Rapids, IA

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

If you're looking to gain hands-on experience in industrial automation, technical sales, and customer engagement, this internship is for you. As an Industrial Sales Intern, you will support products and company initiatives related to the Industrial Sales Department while working alongside Automation Specialists, Inside Sales, and the Sales Support Team. Throughout the internship, you will help develop and deliver customer solutions, build technical expertise, and gain exposure to a variety of roles across the organization.
This internship provides valuable exposure to industrial automation technologies, customer-focused sales strategies, technical support functions, and professional development opportunities. Interns work closely with an assigned mentor, participate in community impact initiatives, visit multiple branch locations, and gain practical experience supporting customers and internal teams.
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 or junior standing
• Currently pursuing a degree in a technical field, including but not limited to Engineering, Automation, Robotics, Computer Science, or Information Technology.
• 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

Responsibilities

• Participate in an Electrical Distribution Orientation to learn the roles of various departments and understand relationships with key partners and suppliers.
• Engage in job shadowing opportunities across departments, with a primary focus on Automation-related functions.
• Support and learn from Automation Support and Design Engineering teams to understand technical solutions and customer applications.
• Accompany Account Managers and Specialists on customer site visits to gain experience in customer engagement and problem-solving.
• Develop technical knowledge and expertise in an assigned area of focus determined at the beginning of the internship.
• Attend commercial events and assist with technical sessions, labs, demonstrations, and trade shows as needed.
• Assist in creating and updating training materials for internal employee development and customer education programs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support customer solutions and business initiatives.
• Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning, customer service, and company values.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: High school or GED