Automation Engineering Intern

Novonesis; West Allis (WI); On-site; USD 26,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

Novonesis in West Allis, WI, invites applications for an Automation Engineering Intern to join the automation team. You will support and improve control systems for manufacturing processes, gaining hands-on experience with PLC, DCS, HMI, and SCADA projects while collaborating with cross-functional teams.

The role emphasizes troubleshooting, data analysis for process improvements, and documentation. On-site, this 10-week internship offers exposure to real-world industrial automation in a

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Computer Science.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities essential.
• Interest in industrial automation, batch programming, OT networks, and control system design.
• Ability to interpret technical information and diagnose system issues.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Able to work independently while managing project responsibilities.
• Good organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA; sophomore standing or higher required.
• Willingness to arrange housing and transportation.

Responsibilities

• Support maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization of automated manufacturing systems.
• Assist with PLC, DCS, HMI, SCADA, and process control projects.
• Analyze automation data to identify process improvements and reliability gains.
• Support upgrades, modifications, and commissioning on capital projects.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, engineering, and quality teams to improve performance.
• Develop technical documentation, programming updates, reports, and work instructions.
• Assist with testing and validation of solutions and improvements.
• Present findings and recommendations to site leadership.

Skills

Analytical skills

Troubleshooting

Problem-solving

Industrial automation interest

Batch programming

OT networks

Control system design

Technical interpretation

Communication & collaboration

Independent work

Organization & detail orientation

GPA 3.0+

Sophomore standing or higher

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Computer Science

Tools

PLC

DCS

HMI

SCADA

Process control systems

OT networks

Job description

Interested in a career that matters?Interested in a career that matters?At Novonesis, we use biology to transform how the world produces food, beverages, household products, renewable fuels, and more. As an Automation Engineering Intern , you will join our automation team in West Allis, WI, where innovation, technology, and continuous improvement drive manufacturing excellence.This is an opportunity to gain hands-on experience supporting automated manufacturing systems that enable safe, reliable, and efficient production. You'll work on real-world projects while learning how automation and control systems help power the future of biotechnology.About the RoleAs an Automation Engineering Intern , you will work alongside automation engineers, production teams, and technical specialists to support and improve the control systems that operate our manufacturing processes. You will gain exposure to industrial automation technologies, troubleshoot equipment and process issues, and contribute to projects that improve reliability, efficiency, and operational performance.Key Responsibilities Include:Support the maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization of automated manufacturing systems.Assist with PLC, DCS HMI, SCADA, and process control system projects.Analyze automation and production data to identify opportunities for process improvement and increased system reliability.Support automation upgrades, system modifications, and commissioning activities as part of capital projects.Collaborate with operations, maintenance, engineering, and quality teams to improve manufacturing performance.Develop technical documentation, programming updates, reports, and system work instructions.Assist with testing and validation of automation solutions and process improvements.Present project findings, recommendations, and outcomes to site leadership.What You'll Need to Be SuccessfulWe are looking for students who are currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in:Engineering or Computer ScienceRequired Qualifications and CompetenciesStrong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.Interest in industrial automation, batch programming, OT networks, and control system design.Ability to interpret technical information and diagnose system issues.Strong communication and collaboration skills.Ability to work independently while managing project responsibilities.Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.Minimum 3.0 GPA.Sophomore standing or higher at the time of application.Ability to arrange your own housing and transportation.Ways of Working / Working ConditionsFull-time internship assignment lasting approximately 10 weeks.Located on-site in West Allis, WI.Exposure to industrial manufacturing processes, automation systems, and production equipment.Occasional use of required personal protective equipment (PPE) when entering production areas.Collaboration with cross-functional teams including operations, maintenance, engineering, and quality.Compensation & BenefitsExpected salary: $23/hrRelevant InformationProgram Dates: May 24th, 2027 to July 30th, 2027Position Type: Temporary position payrolled through a third-party providerApplication Deadline: October 15, 2026Our purpose guides the wayIn Novonesis, we know that solutions rooted in biology can help solve humanity’s biggest challenges. Since we began more than a century ago, this has been our guide. It’s how we've gotten so far. And it’s how we'll impact the future. Now, more than ever, the world needs change. And with biosolutions, the possibilities for transformation are endless. If our purpose resonates with you, we encourage you to apply.Opportunities for everyoneWe are committed to an inclusive recruitment process and equal opportunity for all applicants. Therefore we ask you to apply without a cover letter or photo and instead include a few sentences in your CV explaining your motivation for applying.We make all employment decisions based on business needs and welcome candidates with a wide range of backgrounds, including ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status.Explore other openingsIf this position isn’t the right fit, you may still find other opportunities with us. You’re welcome to explore open roles or create a job agent to stay connected with future opportunities at novonesis.com/Career