Intern, Automation Engineer

You may not know our name, but you know our products. What we make is part the places where we live, work and play – all day, everyday.

Zekelman is a family of companies — 100% domestic manufacturers — with a legacy dating back to 1877. We’re proud to be the largest independent steel pipe and tube manufacturer in North America and the leading innovator in multi-family housing development.

We believe in what we build and what we build, builds the world around us. Hospitals, hotels, schools, bridges, airports and more.

Come build a career you believe in.

About the Role

As a PLC Intern at Zekelman Industries, you will gain hands-on experience supporting electrical and robotic automation systems in a manufacturing environment. Working closely with the Department Manager, Production, you’ll be exposed to real-world PLC programming, troubleshooting, and robotics applications—an ideal opportunity to apply your classroom knowledge to impactful engineering projects on the plant floor.

This is a full-time, on-site internship located at our Picoma Tube Facility in Cambridge, OH.

The official Zekelman internship program runs from May 24, 2027 through August 13, 2027.

This role is perfect for someone who is mechanically curious, enjoys solving problems, and is excited to explore automation technologies in a fast-paced industrial setting.

What You’ll D o

• Assist in managing new and existing controls projects, including collaboration with integrators, contractors, and vendors
• Support the design and implementation of electrical and robotics solutions
• Program and troubleshoot PLCs and robotics (Allen Bradley, Siemens, Fanuc)
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, ladder logic, and control diagrams
• Evaluate manufacturing processes to identify opportunities for automation or process improvements
• Research robotics technologies and support feasibility analyses for plant-floor applications
• Help develop and document control systems using tools such as AutoCAD
• Maintain accurate records of plant equipment, modifications, and control system updates
• Analyze data from plant processes and present findings in written reports
• Collaborate with production teams to implement process enhancements from concept to completion
• Promote and follow healthy and safe work practices in accordance with Zekelman policy and regulatory requirements
• Perform other duties as assigned

Who You Are

• Pursuing a bachelor’s or master's degree in engineering or a related field (Mechanical, Electrical, Robotics, Mechatronics)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational abilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and documentation
• Maintains confidentiality and exercises sound judgment in technical settings
• Available to travel for the Internship Summit, hosted at a Zekelman Industries location

What You’ll G et

Zekelman Industries offers a PAID internship experience with meaningful work, professional development, and the opportunity to make a real impact. Interns also enjoy

• Hands-on experience in PLC programming and industrial automation
• Exposure to robotics and control systems in a live manufacturing environment
• Access to networking events, learning sessions, and social activities
• Regular coaching and feedback to support technical and professional growth
• Participation in a company-wide Intern Summit

Zekelman Industries offers competitive compensation and excellent benefits, including low-cost, high-quality medical and dental benefits.  In addition, we have an amazing tuition assistance program, a bonus plan, a 401(k) plan with a generous company match, immediate vesting, and much more.

M/F/D/V

We are Zekelman Industries.

We manufacture superior quality tubular and related products, and provide outstanding service for our valued customers.

We seek to continuously advance the skills and opportunities of our employees, utilizing the latest technology and management tools available to consistently increase profitability and the enterprise value of Zekelman Industries and of our customers.