Electrical & Automation Estimating Intern

Interstates; Sioux Falls (SD); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Travel pay when applicable

Company discount perk program

Job summary

Interstates is offering an Electrical & Automation Estimating Internship designed for students exploring construction and engineering roles. You’ll work with seasoned estimators and project professionals to understand how bids are prepared, priced, and documented, with hands-on coaching and real project exposure.

You’ll gain foundational experience in estimating, reading drawings, and understanding industrial electrical systems while developing communication and problem-solving skills in a

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree in construction management, electrical technology, automation, instrumentation, or a related field.
• Interest in estimating, construction, electrical systems, controls, instrumentation, or automation.
• Strong attention to detail and organization.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving mindset.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, Adobe Acrobat is helpful.
• Familiarity with drawings, PLCs, HMIs, MCCs, VFDs, or basic electrical calculations is helpful—but not required.

Responsibilities

• Support real estimating work with coaching from experienced team members.
• Assist with quantity takeoffs, pricing, and organizing estimate information.
• Learn how electrical and automation projects are planned and prepared for bid.
• Review drawings, specifications, P&IDs, and other project documents.
• Help prepare proposals, scope letters, assumptions, clarifications, and vendor requests.
• Learn about electrical power distribution, control systems, instrumentation, and automation.

Skills

Estimating

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Communication

Education

Pursuing associate or bachelor’s in construction management/electrical/automation

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Reading drawings/ specs

Job description

Interstates is offering an Electrical & Automation Estimating Internship designed for students exploring construction and engineering roles. You’ll work with seasoned estimators and project professionals to understand how bids are prepared, priced, and documented, with hands-on coaching and real project exposure.

You’ll gain foundational experience in estimating, reading drawings, and understanding industrial electrical systems while developing communication and problem-solving skills in a