Electrical & Automation Estimating Intern - Real Projects

Interstates Companies; Reppert Addition (SD); On-site; USD 25,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Interstates offers an Electrical & Automation Estimating Intern position to gain hands-on experience supporting bid-ready projects. You will work with experienced estimators and project professionals across electrical construction, controls, instrumentation, and automation.

No prior estimating experience is required; curiosity, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn are valued as you grow your career in construction management and engineering environments.

Qualifications

• No previous estimating or industry experience is required; willingness to learn.
• Currently pursuing an associate or bachelor's degree in construction management, electrical technology, automation, instrumentation, engineering technology, electrical engineering, business, or related field.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Support real estimating work with coaching and feedback.
• 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.
• Gaining exposure to PLCs, HMIs, MCCs, VFDs, and control panels.
• Participate in estimate reviews and bid-preparation activities.
• Collaborate with estimators, engineers, project managers, supply chain, panel shop, sales, operations, and field teams.
• Attend job walks, pre-bid meetings, or project discussions when appropriate.
• Complete meaningful assignments that build your technical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Skills

Estimating interest

Electrical systems

Attention to detail

Analytical mindset

Communication skills

Time management

Team collaboration

MS Office familiarity

Reading drawings

PLC/HMI awareness

Education

Associate or Bachelor's degree pursuit

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Outlook

Adobe Acrobat

Job description

Interstates offers an Electrical & Automation Estimating Intern position to gain hands-on experience supporting bid-ready projects. You will work with experienced estimators and project professionals across electrical construction, controls, instrumentation, and automation.

No prior estimating experience is required; curiosity, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn are valued as you grow your career in construction management and engineering environments.