Automation Technician Intern

Knobelsdorff; Eagan (MN); On-site; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Part time

Job summary

Knobelsdorff is seeking a student intern in Minnesota to support field device testing and start-up activities across automation, electrical, energy and power services. You will perform I/O checkout, assist with control panel checkout, and troubleshoot during commissioning.

Applicants currently pursuing a degree in Engineering Technology or related field should have basic PLC and control systems knowledge, be willing to travel 50%+, and be able to work extended hours.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Engineering Technology, PLC Engineering, Controls, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of control systems and electrical fundamentals.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.

Responsibilities

• Perform I/O checkout, loop verification, and point-to-point wiring validation for field devices and control systems.
• Assist with control panel checkout and support commissioning and startup activities onsite.
• Troubleshoot and resolve control system, device, and industrial network issues during commissioning.
• Support basic PLC configuration and startup using platforms such as Allen-Bradley and Siemens.
• Work with Ethernet switches, fiber optic systems, and structured cabling infrastructure.
• Document commissioning activities including test results, deficiencies, and system configurations.
• Communicate progress and coordinate closely with engineers, project managers, electricians, and contractors.
• Ensure all work meets safety standards, project specifications, and quality expectations.
• Additional duties as assigned.

Skills

Travel willingness

Organizational skills

Multitasking

Education

Engineering Technology degree or related field

Tools

Allen-Bradley

Siemens

Job description

Working at Knobelsdorff

Along with building state-of-the-art projects, we build meaningful careers, lasting opportunities, and teams of dedicated individuals who truly own their work. As a leading turnkey specialty contractor specializing in Automation, Electric, Energy, and Power Services, our team tackles challenging, cutting-edge projects that provide opportunities to build new skills, confidence, and gain valuable hands-on experience in a variety of different industries. We tackle industrial electrical installations, advanced automation systems, and renewable energy solutions.

Working at Knobelsdorff

Along with building state-of-the-art projects, we build meaningful careers, lasting opportunities, and teams of dedicated individuals who truly own their work. As a leading turnkey specialty contractor specializing in Automation, Electric, Energy, and Power Services, our team tackles challenging, cutting-edge projects that provide opportunities to build new skills, confidence, and gain valuable hands-on experience in a variety of different industries. We tackle industrial electrical installations, advanced automation systems, and renewable energy solutions.

Since our founding as a family-owned company in 1988, we've grown while staying true to our core values. Starting your career with Knobelsdorff (KE) means joining a culture that values your contributions, moves quickly, takes calculated risks, and celebrates team members who step up and own their work.

If you're ready to join a team where your voice matters, your growth is supported, and your impact is celebrated, Knobelsdorff (KE) is the place for you.

This position will start May 2027

Job Description

• Perform I/O checkout, loop verification, and point-to-point wiring validation for field devices and control systems.
• Assist with control panel checkout and support commissioning and startup activities onsite.
• Troubleshoot and resolve control system, device, and industrial network issues during commissioning.
• Support basic PLC configuration and startup using platforms such as Allen-Bradley and Siemens.
• Work with Ethernet switches, fiber optic systems, and structured cabling infrastructure.
• Document commissioning activities including test results, deficiencies, and system configurations.
• Communicate progress and coordinate closely with engineers, project managers, electricians, and contractors.
• Ensure all work meets safety standards, project specifications, and quality expectations.
• Additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Engineering Technology, PLC Engineering, Controls, or a related field.
• An understanding of control systems, field instrumentation, and electrical fundamentals.
• Excellent organizational skills including attention to detail and multitasking skills.
• Willingness to travel (50%+) and work extended hours as needed.

Additional Information

Pay Range

We believe in paying for the value you bring to the team, and we aim to be competitive in every market we hire in.

Pay Range: $20 - $25/hour

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to sit, stand, kneel, stoop, walk, and sit for long periods of time
• Must be physically capable of lifting and carrying up to 80 lbs.
• Must be able to work outdoors in varying conditions

Accessibility: If you need accommodations as part of the employment process, please contact KE Human Resources at [e-mail].

Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO)

Knobelsdorff (KE) is an EEO to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws:

• EEO is the Law (English/Spanish)

KE participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. For more information about E-Verify, please review the E-Verify Participation and Right to Work posters

E-Verify Participation and Right to Work posters

If you need accommodation during the hiring process, let us know and we’ll work with you.