INTERN - Automation Controls Engineer

Location: Granby, CT, United States

 

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Assist with controls and electrical upgrades for fiber manufacturing equipment
• Perform hands-on electrical wiring and assembly of control panels and automation components
• Support installation, testing, and troubleshooting of automation and control systems
• Use diagnostic equipment such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, and other electronic test equipment to troubleshoot control systems
• Work with engineers to diagnose software/hardware issues within machine control systems
• Work with industrial automation platforms such as Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation, Siemens, or similar PLC systems
• Support development or modification of ladder logic, HMI interfaces, and machine control programs
• Assist with automation documentation, wiring diagrams, and system configuration updates
• Assist with Python-based tools or scripts for data analysis, automation testing, or system diagnostics
• Collaborate with a cross-functional team of mechanical, controls, and process engineers
• Document work performed and support project updates or final internship presentation

Education & Experience

• Preferred Year: Rising Junior or Rising Senior
• Pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, Controls Engineering, Robotics, or related field
• Coursework or exposure to industrial automation, PLCs, or control systems preferred
• Familiarity with PLC programming, ladder logic, structured text, or industrial networking is a plus
• Exposure to Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Rockwell Studio 5000, TIA Portal, or similar platforms is desirable
• Ability to work in laboratory, clean room, and manufacturing environments

Skills & Other Requirements

 

• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Team-oriented but able to work independently when needed.
• Adaptable and eager to learn in a fast-paced environment.
• Attention to detail and time management.
• Familiarity with Excel, basic programming, or engineering design tools preferred
• Interest in automation systems, robotics, industrial control systems, and manufacturing technology
• Internship Duration: 10 – 14 weeks.
• At Coherent, interns are valued members of our team and have the opportunity to make meaningful contributions from day one. In addition to hands-on project experience, our internship program includes opportunities to connect with fellow interns and colleagues across the organization through virtual and in-person networking events, team-building activities and more. Interns are expected to actively participate in these events as part of their professional development and to fully immerse themselves in our collaborative and innovative culture.

Working Conditions

 

• This role will be based on-site in East Granby. CT.
• Regular use of a computer and other office equipment is necessary.
• Work will take place in both office and manufacturing environments
• Exposure to production equipment, electrical control systems, and automation hardware

Physical Requirements

 

• Sitting for extended periods while working on a computer or in meetings.
• Use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling documents.
• Occasional lifting of objects or materials up to 50 pounds when assisting with equipment or controls hardware.
•  Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.
•  Ability to stand or move within manufacturing areas during equipment troubleshooting or testing

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. EHS standards.

Quality & Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to company’s values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:

Integrity – Create an Environment of Trust

Collaboration – Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas

Accountability – Own the Process and the Outcome 

Respect – Recognize the Value in Everyone

Enthusiasm – Find a Sense of Purpose in Work

Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at [email protected].

ABOUT US

Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!

Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.

 

About Us

Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!

Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.


Job Summary We are seeking a motivated and hands-on Automation Controls Intern to join our engineering team at our East Granby, CT facility for Summer 2026. In this role, you will gain practical experience working on controls and automation systems used in advanced fiber manufacturing equipment. You will collaborate with experienced engineers while contributing to real equipment upgrades and troubleshooting activities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.