Controls Engineering Co-Op - 6 months - TAUNTON, MA location

ZipRecruiter; Taunton; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in automation and control systems is seeking a Controls Engineering intern to work on real-world projects. This role offers hands-on experience in PLC programming, HMI design, and electrical systems, providing a unique opportunity to learn from experienced engineers and contribute to innovative projects.

Benefits

Mentorship from seasoned engineers

Networking opportunities

Potential full-time job offer after graduation

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Automation, or Mechatronics.
• Basic PLC programming knowledge required.
• Comfortable with electrical circuits and control panel design.

Responsibilities

• Designing, developing, and testing control systems for automation.
• Supporting PLC programming and troubleshooting control logic.
• Assisting in electrical schematic design and wiring diagrams.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

electrical circuits

troubleshooting

communication

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering

degree in Mechanical Engineering

degree in Automation

degree in Mechatronics

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

CAD software

Job description

Job DescriptionJob Description

Job Posting: Controls Engineering

Job Title: Controls Engineering
Location: Harpak-ULMA, 85 Independence Dr, Taunton, MA 02780
Duration: Dual Semester (6 months)
Department: Engineering
Reports To: Controls & Innovation Manager

About the Role:

Hey future engineer! Looking to gain hands-on experience in automation and control systems while working with a team that actually values your input? Harpak-ULMA is looking for a Controls Engineering to dive into the world of PLC programming, HMI design, and electrical systems. You won’t be grabbing coffee—you’ll be working on real-world projects alongside experienced engineers.

Located at our Taunton, MA facility, you’ll also get exposure to our manufacturing processes, shop, training center, and R&D projects—so there’s never a dull moment.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Designing, developing, and testing control systems for automation and manufacturing.

• Supporting PLC programming and troubleshooting control logic.

• Creating and modifying HMI (Human-Machine Interface) screens for system operations.

• Assisting in electrical schematic design and wiring diagrams.

• Performing system testing and validation to ensure everything runs smoothly and safely.

• Troubleshooting hardware and software control issues.

• Collaborating with service technicians, project managers, and software developers to bring ideas to life.

• Documenting technical procedures, test results, and system configurations.

• Bringing your ideas to team meetings—we love innovation!

Who You Are:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or a related field.

• Have some basic PLC programming knowledge (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar ).

• Familiar with HMI development, SCADA systems, and industrial networks (bonus points!).

• Comfortable working with electrical circuits, wiring diagrams, and control panel design.

• A problem-solver with strong attention to detail.

• A self-starter who can work independently but also thrives in a team setting.

• A great communicator with solid written and verbal skills.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

Extra Skills That’ll Make You Stand Out:

• Experience with CAD software for electrical schematics (AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN, etc.).

• Some knowledge of robotic systems and motion control.

• Hands-on experience troubleshooting automation systems.

• Exposure to industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profibus, etc.).

Why You’ll Love This :

• Work on real projects—not just busy work.

• Mentorship from seasoned engineers who actually want to help you grow.

• Networking opportunities with professionals in engineering and automation.

• A chance to land a full-time job after graduation!

Harpak-ULMA is all about giving interns the space to learn, innovate, and contribute. If you’re excited to apply your skills in an engaging, hands-on environment, we’d love to hear from you!