Control Systems Intern (Summer 2027)

HDR; Omaha (NE); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

HDR in Omaha, Nebraska invites aspiring engineers to join as an Instrumentation and Controls Intern. You will work under senior engineers to apply standard techniques on instrumentation, control hardware, and automation components, gaining real-world experience on exciting projects.

This internship emphasizes hands-on PLC and HMI programming, development of P&IDs, network diagrams, and field observations, with mentoring within HDR's employee-owned culture.

Qualifications

• Enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate Engineering program.
• Attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills.
• Basic Microsoft Office skills and effective communication.

Responsibilities

• Assist with selection, specification, and integration of process instrumentation and control system components.
• Support development of SCADA / I&C construction documents including P&IDs and wiring diagrams.
• Participate in construction coordination and field observations as needed.
• Gain hands-on PLC and HMI programming experience and testing.
• Engage with mentors and participate in professional development programs.
• Perform other duties as needed.

Skills

Attention to detail

Problem solving

Communication skills

Education

Engineering student

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?

Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story'

Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.

We believe building engineering is more than systems and structures, it’s about powering progress and enabling innovation. As part of HDR’s Building Engineering Services Group, you’ll help design the critical infrastructure that supports the digital age and shapes the spaces where people work, connect, and thrive. From high-performance data centers driving the future of AI to dynamic commercial environments, your work will directly support technological advancement, sustainability, and human experience. We bring together mechanical, electrical, structural, and civil engineering experts to solve complex design challenges with precision, creativity, and collaboration. Whether you're optimizing energy efficiency, integrating resilient systems, or engineering the backbone of next-generation facilities, your contributions will help define the future of the built environment. This isn’t just a job, it’s a chance to lead innovation, engineer impact, and build a legacy of excellence.

In the role of an Instrumentation and Controls Intern, we'll count on you to:

• Gain real-world experience on exciting projects by applying standard engineering techniques and procedures to assist with the selection, specification, and integration of process instrumentation, control system hardware, industrial networks, and automation system components.
• Work under the guidance and direct supervision of senior-level Engineers to assist with the development of SCADA / I&C construction documents including P&IDs, network architecture diagrams, control panel layouts and wiring diagrams, installation details, and technical specifications
• Participate in coordination during construction phases including the review of shop drawings and to participate in field observation on an as needed basis.
• Get hands‑on experience with PLC and HMI programming by contributing to control system development activities including PLC logic configuration, HMI screen development, alarm and data trending setup, system integration testing, and troubleshooting of industrial automation systems. You'll gain exposure to industry‑leading platforms while learning how control systems are designed, implemented, and maintained throughout the project lifecycle.
• Connect with recent college graduates and our company leaders through mentoring and young professionals’ programs
• Perform other duties as needed

Preferred Qualifications

• Prefer candidates pursuing a degree in Electrical, Chemical, Mechanical, Computer and Industrial Engineering
• Prefer 2+ years completed toward degree with 3.0+ GPA
• Demonstrated knowledge of software packages related to field of study/industry
• Preference given to local candidates.

Required Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate Engineering program
• Attention to detail
• Possess strong problem‑solving and communication skills
• Basic Microsoft Office skills
• An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee‑owned culture is a must

What We Believe

HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.

Our Commitment

As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.

Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

Primary Location: United States-Nebraska-Omaha Industry: Building Engineering Schedule: Full‑time Employee Status: Temporary BusinessClass: Control Systems and OT Cybersecurity Job Posting: Sep 9, 2026

At HDR, we are committed to the principles of employment equity. We are an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer (https://www.hdrinc.com/equal-employment-opportunity-employer). We consider all qualified applicants, regardless of criminal histories, arrest and conviction records.