Controls Engineer Intern (Summer 2027)

Charter Manufacturing is a fourth-generation family-owned business where our will to grow drives us to do it better.  Join the team and become part of our family!

Charter Casting - Shawano is a leading provider of innovative cast metal solutions. Charter Casting produces ductile and gray iron castings for customers in various industries. From government and defense customers to agricultural and heavy truck equipment manufacturers, and an array of companies who need pumps, valves and compressors, Charter Casting works with its customers to create custom castings that are both efficient and cost-effective.  Charter Casting - Shawano is a member of the Charter Manufacturing family of companies. 

About the Controls Engineer Internship:

This Controls Engineer Internship offers hands-on experience with industrial automation in a manufacturing environment, including PLCs, HMIs, industrial networks, sensors, and control systems. You’ll strengthen your troubleshooting, data analysis, technical communication, and project skills while learning how automation solutions improve manufacturing performance.

Program Structure:

• Schedule: Full-time (40 hours/week) during the summer
• Location: Shawano, WI
• Start Date: May 2027
• Duration: Summer internship

What we're looking for:

• Enrollment in a four-year degree program in Electrical Engineering, Controls Systems Engineering or a related field with current status of at least a Sophomore level.
• Cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office software: Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship building skills.
• Ability to succeed in a team environment.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks.

Preferred experience:

• Training in PLC languages.
• Experience with AutoCAD, Microsoft SQL, Wonderware InTouch.

What you'll focus on:

• Support the Automation & Controls team with daily technical and project work across plant operations.
• Update and organize PLC, HMI, network, electrical, and equipment documentation.
• Collect and analyze data from production systems and develop reports, dashboards, and project updates.
• Support automation projects, including plant demand management, safety controls improvements, and modernization of legacy equipment.
• Assist with controls standardization, OT asset inventory, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement activities.
• Conduct field verification of equipment, drawings, and control system information.
• Research automation solutions and support project planning and implementation.
• Participate in team meetings and shadow Controls and Automation professionals to gain hands-on exposure to plant systems.

What Sets Our Internship Program Apart: Work on meaningful projects while receiving mentorship, professional development, and networking opportunities that help launch your career. Our paid internship program also includes signature experiences like Charter's Intern Kickoff Day, volunteer opportunities, professional development workshops, and the Intern Summer Showcase.

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This position may include access to controlled information or technology under U.S. export control laws.  Employment may be contingent on either the applicant verifying that the applicant falls under the “U.S. Person” definition (including U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and those granted U.S. asylum or refugee status) or the employer timely obtaining any necessary export license under federal law. The employer evaluates export licensing on a case-by-case basis and may decline to proceed with a job applicant in its sole discretion, as export license applications can take many weeks to process.