NTP Birmingham - Spring 2027 Automation Process Engineer Co-Op

Nucor Corporation; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Nucor Corporation in Birmingham, AL, seeks a Spring 2027 Automation Process Engineer Co-Op. You will work with automation mentors and cross-functional teams to execute continuous improvement projects centered on automation, controls, and process performance.

The role involves assisting with PLC/HMI/SCADA troubleshooting, analyzing downtime and OEE, and collaborating with maintenance to implement improvements. Safety is emphasized across all activities.

Qualifications

• 4-year degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, or related Engineering field (Engineering Technology also considered).
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the US (Nucor will not sponsor a visa).
• Exposure to PLC programming concepts and familiarity with HMI/SCADA systems.

Responsibilities

• Support design, modification, and optimization of automated systems and production processes.
• Assist with PLC, HMI, and SCADA/Historian troubleshooting and enhancements.
• Analyze process data (downtime, OEE, cycle rates) to identify improvement opportunities.
• Collaborate with maintenance and operations to implement process improvements.
• Document changes using P&IDs, functional specs, schematics, and change logs.
• Support commissioning and testing of automation upgrades.

Skills

PLC concepts

HMI/SCADA familiarity

Data analysis (Excel)

Power BI

Python/SQL basics

Industrial troubleshooting

Automation safety (LOTO)

Education

4-year engineering degree or Engineering Technology

Tools

Ignition

WinCC

FactoryTalk

AutoCAD Electrical

SolidWorks

Job description

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NTP Birmingham - Spring 2027 Automation Process Engineer Co-Op

Division: Nucor Tubular Products - South

Location: Birmingham, AL, United States

Co-Op Period: Spring 2027

Welcome to Nucor, where our unique culture sets us apart. Joining Nucor means becoming part of North America's largest steel and steel products manufacturer, offering unmatched career opportunities and stability. We are known for our innovative sustainability practices and are the continent's largest recycler. Our vibrant culture, built on personal connections and teamwork, empowers every team member with the freedom to innovate and contribute to our collective success. Experience a workplace where safety, efficiency, and meaningful personal connections define every day, enriching both our teammates and the communities we serve.

Basic Job Functions:

The student completing this co-op will work closely with automation/process engineering mentors and cross-functional teams to execute continuous improvement projects focused on automation, controls, and process performance.

• Support design, modification, and optimization of automated systems and production processes.
• Assist with PLC, HMI, and SCADA/Historian troubleshooting and enhancements.
• Analyze process data (downtime, OEE, cycle rates) to identify improvement opportunities.
• Collaborate with maintenance and operations to implement process improvements.
• Document changes using P&IDs, functional specs, schematics, and change logs.
• Support commissioning and testing of automation upgrades.

Safety is the most important part of all jobs within Nucor; therefore, candidates must be able to demonstrate the ability to initiate, lead, and uphold safety policies, practices, procedures, and housekeeping standards at all times.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Seeking a 4-year degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, or related Engineering field (Engineering Technology also considered).
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the US (Nucor will not sponsor the need for a visa now or in the future).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Exposure to PLC programming concepts (ladder, FBD, structured text
• Familiarity with HMI/SCADA systems (Ignition, WinCC, FactoryTalk).
• Ability to interpret electrical schematics, P&IDs, loop diagrams, and network layouts.
• Experience or coursework in process control, instrumentation, or manufacturing systems.Data analysis skills in Excel (pivots), plus exposure to Power BI, Python, or SQL.
• Knowledge of automation safety practices (LOTO, risk assessments).
• Experience with AutoCAD Electrical or SolidWorks is a plus.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills in industrial environments.

Nucor is an Equal OpportunityEmployer and a drug-free workplace