Summer 2026 Controls & Automation Engineering Co-op
MDI offers paid internships for students available to work in person for at least three months. Interns collaborate with one or more of our engineering teams and may assist with a range of automation and software development projects.
Note: We do not screen candidates through external hiring sites. To apply, send your résumé and video interview availability to recruiter@mdiadvantage.com.
Program Details
- Compensation: $25/hour (no benefits)
- Supervision: Guided by senior engineers
- Housing Assistance: Available for interns living outside a commutable distance from one of our offices
- Requirements: Valid driver’s license and willingness to complete a client-required background check
Possible Internship Responsibilities
- PLC & HMI programming
- SCADA/MES application development
- Drives and motion control systems
- Microsoft operating systems, Office, and networking
- Electrical design and troubleshooting
- Working with Inductive Automation’s Ignition SCADA/MES Platform
AREAS OF WORK
As a service-based company, MDI’s project needs can change frequently, and internship assignments, schedules and travel requirements may vary accordingly. Applicants should be comfortable with this dynamic environment. The goal of our internship program is to identify and develop future full-time engineers, and we strive to match interns with work that aligns with their interests. MDI does not assign “intern work”, our interns contribute to real projects alongside our full-time engineering team. The following sections outline several of the teams that interns may work with or support during their time at MDI.
Custom Integration Team
Provides turnkey hardware and software automation solutions, including PLC, HMI, SCADA, and MES systems. Tasks may include system design, onsite implementation, installation, validation/startup, and customer support. This team typically works in the office on a Monday – Friday schedule throughout a large variety of industries and involves occasional travel.
Digital Transformation Team
Focuses on developing custom software solutions that connect business systems with production data. Responsibilities include software design and development, UI creation, database integration (SQL/API), and onsite implementation. Interns learn how data-driven systems enhance manufacturing efficiency. This team typically works in the office on a Monday – Friday schedule throughout a large variety of industries and involves minimal travel.
Commissioning Team
Works onsite across the U.S. and Canada to assist with startup and validation of new automation installations. Duties include configuration, testing, troubleshooting, and customer interaction. This team works with the logistics/material handling industry, has a typical 10 on/4 off schedule (although this can vary based on the customer) and involves extensive travel.
Material Handling Integration Team
Combines offsite PLC code development with onsite startup of automation upgrades in existing facilities. Tasks may include reverse-engineering legacy code and implementing new hardware/software solutions during scheduled downtime. This team works with the logistics/material handling industry, has a varied schedule (weekends, possible night shifts) and may involve potential frequent travel.
We DO NOT screen candidates through external hiring sites. Please send a copy of your resume and transcripts, along with your video interview availability, to recruiter@mdiadvantage.com. Please mention if you recently met us at an on-campus recruiting event. If we are going to proceed with your application, we will reach out within 2 weeks. Thank you!