Maintenance Mechanic Intern

Indiana Michigan Power Company; United States; On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

American Electric Power (AEP) is offering a Maintenance Mechanic Intern position in a power generation setting. The internship provides hands-on exposure to mechanical maintenance, equipment operation, and troubleshooting under supervision, complementing technical education with practical plant experience.

Interns will develop fundamental skills in mechanical systems, tools, fabrication basics, and safety practices, preparing for further technical roles in energy facilities.

Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of mechanical and/or electrical systems.
• Ability to read and interpret basic technical drawings, diagrams, and schematics.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and willingness to learn.

Responsibilities

• Operate or assist with operation of mobile equipment and machinery.
• Assist with maintenance, inspection, troubleshooting, and repair of plant equipment.
• Learn to read manuals and technical information used in maintenance activities.
• Follow safety rules, participate in training, and communicate equipment conditions to supervisors.

Skills

Mechanical knowledge

Reading drawings

Teamwork & communication

Education

Associate degree or technical certificate

Job description

Job Summary

The Maintenance Mechanic Intern provides students pursuing a technical degree or certificate with hands‑on exposure to mechanical maintenance activities in a power generation environment. Under the direction and supervision of experienced employees, the intern will learn fundamental maintenance practices, equipment operation, troubleshooting, repair techniques, and safe work practices. The internship is designed to complement classroom and technical training by providing practical experience with industrial equipment, tools, mechanical systems, and plant maintenance activities.

Job Description

Essential Job Functions

Learn to safely operate mobile equipment and associated equipment as appropriate for assigned work and training. Assist with maintaining equipment, tools, and work areas in a clean and orderly condition and report equipment irregularities or abnormal conditions to supervision. Assist qualified employees with the inspection, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of plant and coal‑handling equipment, including mobile equipment. Gain exposure to the maintenance, replacement, and adjustment of mechanical components and instrumentation, such as valve packing, drive components, conveyor idlers, gauge and sight glasses, position and level switches, pressure gauges, manometers, pressure switches, and similar devices. Develop experience using hand and power tools and performing basic mechanical work, which may include drilling and tapping holes, threading bolts, cutting and threading pipe, preparing boiler tubes, and using measuring devices appropriate to the work. Learn to use basic layout and measuring tools, including rules, scales, straight edges, dividers, squares, levels, plumb bobs, and protractors, to assist with basic fabrication and maintenance activities. Under appropriate supervision and when trained and authorized, gain exposure to basic metal fabrication activities, including non‑code electric arc welding, tack and assembly welding, metal cutting, brazing, bending, forming, and heating applications. Assist with the inspection, installation, removal, assembly, disassembly, and repair of mechanical equipment and components while learning proper maintenance techniques and procedures. Learn to read and interpret basic technical drawings, schematics, equipment manuals, maintenance instructions, and other technical information used in plant maintenance activities. Participate in preventive and corrective maintenance activities while developing an understanding of equipment reliability, troubleshooting, and maintenance processes. Perform work in accordance with Company safety rules, operating regulations, procedures, and established work practices. Participate in applicable safety, emergency response, first aid, and other required training. Communicate effectively with supervisors, mechanics, operators, and other team members regarding work assignments, equipment conditions, safety concerns, and maintenance activities. Perform similar or less‑skilled work and other duties as assigned that support the intern's technical development and the needs of the facility.

Minimum Requirements

Education

Currently pursuing an Associate degree or Technical Certificate in a related technical field, such as: Industrial Maintenance Mechanical Engineering Technology Electrical/Electromechanical Technology Welding Technology Industrial Systems Technology Mechatronics Diesel/Heavy Equipment Technology Machining or Manufacturing Technology Other closely related technical discipline

Experience, Knowledge and Skills

Basic knowledge of mechanical and/or electrical systems. Experience or exposure gained through coursework, laboratory work, technical or vocational training, military training, co‑op experience, or personal mechanical projects. Ability to read and interpret basic technical drawings, diagrams, and schematics. Basic understanding of hand tools, power tools, measuring devices, and mechanical equipment. Basic computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office applications. Strong communication, teamwork, problem‑solving, and willingness‑to‑learn skills. Ability to follow instructions and work effectively under the direction of experienced maintenance personnel. Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety and willingness to learn and follow established safety requirements.

Required License(s)/Certification(s)

Must possess the appropriate state driver's license and obtain and maintain any certifications, qualifications, or licenses required for assigned duties.

Other Requirements

Physical Demand : The Maintenance Mechanic Intern may work in an industrial power generation environment and must be able to perform the physical requirements associated with assigned work, including: Climb ladders and stairs multiple times during the workday. Use sufficient manual and fine‑motor dexterity to operate tools, switches, controls, and equipment. Detect and distinguish colors used on alarms, equipment, indicators, and other devices. Hear plant announcements and alarms and recognize abnormal equipment sounds. Communicate work‑related information effectively by phone, radio, and in person. Work at heights and on grating, platforms, stairs, and catwalks as required. Exert up to 50 pounds of force when performing certain maintenance activities, including manually operating valves or handling equipment. Stand and/or walk for extended periods, potentially up to 12 hours depending on the work assignment and schedule. Wear required personal protective equipment and comply with applicable plant and Company safety requirements. Work in an industrial environment that may include exposure to varying temperatures, noise, dust, heights, moving equipment, and other conditions typical of a power generation facility.

Compensation

Compensation Grade: Co‑Op/Intern-001 Compensation Range: $ - $ The Physical Demand Level for this job is: M – Medium Work: Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Light Work.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer‑employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.

At American Electric Power, we provide more than electricity to our millions of customers - we energize possibilities. We're redefining the future of energy by reducing our carbon footprint, empowering the communities we serve and building an engaged, talented workforce. All while delivering the reliable service our customers expect. It’s an exciting time in the energy industry. Are you ready to be part of it? We’re looking for team members to help create the grid of the future. Learn more about our commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive work culture that values different experiences.