Maintenance Mechanic Intern

American Electric Power•Rockport, IN

About The Position

The Maintenance Mechanic Intern provides students pursuing a technical degree or certificate with hands-on exposure to mechanical maintenance activities in a power generation environment. Under the direction and supervision of experienced employees, the intern learns fundamental maintenance practices, equipment operation, troubleshooting, repair techniques, and safe work practices. The internship complements classroom and technical training with practical experience involving industrial equipment, tools, mechanical systems, and plant maintenance activities. The intern assists qualified employees with inspection, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of plant and coal-handling equipment, including mobile equipment. The role includes learning to use tools and measuring devices, perform basic mechanical work, interpret technical materials, and participate in preventive and corrective maintenance. When trained and authorized, the intern may gain exposure to basic metal fabrication activities under appropriate supervision. Work takes place in an industrial power generation environment. Physical demands may include climbing, working at heights, using tools and equipment, lifting or exerting force, standing or walking for extended periods, and wearing required personal protective equipment. Conditions may include varying temperatures, noise, dust, heights, and moving equipment. The intern follows Company safety rules and procedures and participates in required safety and other training.

Requirements

Currently pursuing an Associate degree or Technical Certificate in a related technical field.
Basic knowledge of mechanical and/or electrical systems.
Experience or exposure through coursework, laboratory work, technical or vocational training, military training, co-op experience, or personal mechanical projects.
Ability to read and interpret basic technical drawings, diagrams, and schematics.
Basic understanding of hand tools, power tools, measuring devices, and mechanical equipment.
Basic computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, and willingness to learn.
Ability to follow instructions and work effectively under the direction of experienced maintenance personnel.
Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety and willingness to learn and follow established safety requirements.
Must possess the appropriate state driver's license and obtain and maintain certifications, qualifications, or licenses required for assigned duties.
Ability to climb ladders and stairs multiple times during the workday.
Sufficient manual and fine-motor dexterity to operate tools, switches, controls, and equipment.
Ability to detect and distinguish colors used on alarms, equipment, indicators, and other devices.
Ability to hear plant announcements and alarms and recognize abnormal equipment sounds.
Ability to communicate work-related information effectively by phone, radio, and in person.
Ability to work at heights and on grating, platforms, stairs, and catwalks as required.
Ability to exert up to 50 pounds of force for certain maintenance activities.
Ability to stand and/or walk for extended periods, potentially up to 12 hours depending on the assignment and schedule.
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment and comply with applicable plant and Company safety requirements.

Responsibilities

Learn to safely operate mobile equipment and associated equipment as appropriate for assigned work and training.
Help maintain equipment, tools, and work areas in a clean and orderly condition, and report equipment irregularities or abnormal conditions to supervision.
Assist qualified employees with inspection, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of plant and coal-handling equipment, including mobile equipment.
Gain exposure to maintenance, replacement, and adjustment of mechanical components and instrumentation, including valve packing, drive components, conveyor idlers, gauges, switches, and similar devices.
Develop experience using hand and power tools and performing basic mechanical work, including drilling and tapping holes, threading bolts, cutting and threading pipe, preparing boiler tubes, and using measuring devices.
Learn to use layout and measuring tools to assist with basic fabrication and maintenance activities.
When appropriately supervised, trained, and authorized, gain exposure to non-code electric arc welding, tack and assembly welding, metal cutting, brazing, bending, forming, and heating applications.
Assist with inspection, installation, removal, assembly, disassembly, and repair of mechanical equipment and components.
Learn to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, equipment manuals, maintenance instructions, and other technical information.
Participate in preventive and corrective maintenance activities and develop an understanding of equipment reliability, troubleshooting, and maintenance processes.
Perform work in accordance with Company safety rules, operating regulations, procedures, and established work practices; participate in applicable safety, emergency response, first aid, and other required training.
Communicate with supervisors, mechanics, operators, and team members about work assignments, equipment conditions, safety concerns, and maintenance activities.
Perform similar or less-skilled work and other duties as assigned to support technical development and facility needs.