Engineering Intern – Automation & Controls (PLC) - Year-Round (Halstead, KS)

THE COMPANY
Continental is a leading tire manufacturer and industry specialist that develops and produces sustainable, safe and convenient solutions for automotive manufacturers as well as industrial and end customers worldwide. Founded in 1871, the company generated sales of €39.7 billion in 2024 and currently employs around 95,000 people in 54 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 39,000 employees in more than 40 countries and sales of some 6.4 billion euros (2024), 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?

Internship is year-round, paid, and located in Halstead, Kansas.

Continental will not offer relocation for internship opportunities. 

Your Tasks

As an Engineering Intern focused on Automation & Controls, you will support engineering initiatives related to PLC programming, equipment automation, and new project implementation within a manufacturing environment. This role provides hands-on experience working with automated systems, troubleshooting equipment, and assisting in the development of process improvements.

You will collaborate with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams to help optimize machine performance, support system upgrades, and contribute to new automation projects that improve efficiency, safety, and reliability.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with PLC programming, troubleshooting, and system updates.
• Support automation projects, including installation, testing, and commissioning of equipment.
• Help diagnose and resolve equipment and control system issues.
• Assist with development and modification of HMI interfaces and control logic.
• Support new equipment projects, including layout, integration, and startup activities.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on automation and process efficiency.
• Collaborate with maintenance, engineering, and production teams to improve equipment reliability.
• Document control systems, processes, and project updates.
• Assist in ensuring systems meet safety and operational standards.

What You Bring to the Role

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. Students must be at a minimum sophomore standing with a GPA  2.8 or higher.
• Basic understanding of PLC systems, automation, and control logic.
• Familiarity with industrial equipment, sensors, and control systems.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and wiring diagrams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to work in a hands-on manufacturing environment and learn new technologies.
• Legal work authorization to work in the US is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas now or in the future for this job opening.

Additional Ways to Stand Out

• Experience with PLC platforms (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar).
• Familiarity with programming languages (ladder logic, structured text, or basic coding).
• Exposure to robotics, automation systems, or mechatronics projects.
• Experience with HMI/SCADA systems.
• Hands-on experience with troubleshooting equipment or electrical systems.
• Participation in engineering projects, robotics teams, or automation competitions.
• Knowledge of industrial safety standards and practices.

What We Offer

• Paid internship with competitive hourly compensation.
• Hands-on experience with PLC programming, automation systems, and industrial equipment.
• Opportunity to contribute to real-world automation and capital improvement projects.
• Mentorship from experienced engineers and automation specialists.
• Exposure to equipment integration, system troubleshooting, and process optimization.
• Cross-functional collaboration with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams.
• Networking opportunities and potential consideration for future internships or full-time roles based on performance.

Students from locations outside of the United States must be employed by Continental in their home country or actively enrolled in a Continental sponsored international intern program to be considered for an internship in the United States. The Company does not sponsor visas for international interns.

Continental will not offer relocation for internship opportunities. 

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.