Controls Engineering Intern

About us

The Company

Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent, and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic, and transportation. In 2023, Continental generated sales of €41.4 billion and currently employs around 200,000 people in 56 countries and markets.  

ContiTech is one of the world’s leading industry specialists. The Continental group sector offers its customers connected, environment-friendly, safe, and convenient industry and service solutions using a range of materials for off-highway applications, on rails and roads, in the air, under and above the ground, in industrial environments, for the food sector and the furniture industry. With about 42,000 employees in more than 40 countries and sales of some 6.8 billion euros (2023), the global industrial partner is active with core branches in Asia, Europe and North and South America. Are you ready to shape the future with us? 

Position Summary
The Controls Engineering Intern will support the engineering team in the design, development, testing, and implementation of automated control systems. This role provides hands‑on experience with industrial automation, PLC programming, machine controls, data acquisition, and troubleshooting of electrical and mechanical systems. The intern will work closely with Controls Engineers and Operations partners to help improve system reliability, efficiency, and safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in developing, programming, and testing PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems under the guidance of the engineering and maintenance team.
• Support troubleshooting of electrical and control system issues on production equipment.
• Help create and update documentation, including wiring diagrams, user manuals, and standard operating procedures.
• Participate in equipment installation, commissioning, and validation activities.
• Collect and analyze system performance data to identify improvement opportunities.
• Assist in designing and implementing automation improvements to enhance safety, quality, and throughput.
• Support controls change management processes, including version control and documentation updates.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams such as Maintenance, Operations, and Quality.

Required:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• Basic understanding of PLC logic, electrical circuits, sensors, and automation concepts.
• Familiarity with engineering tools and software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks Electrical, or similar).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a team environment.
• Willingness to learn, ask questions, and take initiative.

Preferred:

• Experience with one or more PLC platforms (e.g. Allen‑Bradley).
• Exposure to HMI development tools (FactoryTalk View, Ignition).
• Hands‑on experience with industrial equipment and instrumentation.
• Knowledge of electrical schematics, panel wiring, or machine safety standards.

What You’ll Learn

• Real‑world engineering experience in an industrial/manufacturing environment.
• Mentorship from experienced Controls Engineers and technical professionals.
• Opportunities to work on impactful automation projects.
• Exposure to modern control systems, troubleshooting techniques, and industry standards.
• Potential for future full‑time employment based on performance and business needs.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines

EEO-Statement:

EEO / Disabled / Protected Veteran Employer. Continental offers equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals, without regard to unlawful consideration to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. In addition, as a federal contractor, Continental complies with government regulations, including affirmative action responsibilities for qualified individuals with a disability and protected veterans, where they apply. To be considered, you must apply for a specific position for which Continental has a current posted job opening. Qualifying applications will be considered only for the specific opening(s) to which you apply. If you would like to be considered for additional or future job openings, we encourage you to reapply for other opportunities as they become available. Further, Continental provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance in the application process, please reply to [email protected] or contact US Recruiting at 800-821-2727. This telephone line and email address are reserved solely for job seekers with disabilities requesting accessibility assistance or an accommodation in the job application process. Please do not call about the status of your job application, if you do not require accessibility assistance or an accommodation. Messages left for other purposes, such as following up on an application or non-disability related technical issues, will not receive a call back.

Ready to drive with Continental? Take the first step and fill in the online application.