Controls Engineering Intern

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What we offer:

At Magna, you can expect an engaging and dynamic environment where you can help to develop industry-leading automotive technologies. We invest in our employees, providing them with the support and resources they need to succeed. As a member of our global team, you can expect exciting, varied responsibilities as well as a wide range of development prospects. Because we believe that your career path should be as unique as you are.

Group Summary:

The Magna Exteriors portfolio of products includes access systems such as liftgates, exterior trim, modular systems, front-end modules including fascia, active aerodynamic systems and other lightweight structural components for automotive, commercial truck and other industrial markets.

Recognized globally as an innovator in all aspects of vehicle exteriors, Magna provides everything needed, from materials development and design through manufacturing and assembly, to help automakers create sleek, state-of-the-art vehicles across the world.

Job Responsibilities:

JOB SUMMARY:

The Controls Engineering Intern is responsible for supporting machine reliability and automation improvements through PLC programming assistance, controls hardware updates, and electrical troubleshooting, as well as leading a semester-long technical project aligned with plant priorities.

This role ensures improved equipment performance, increased system reliability, and meaningful technical enhancements, supporting the organization in achieving operational efficiency, production stability, and continuous improvement in manufacturing operations.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

Controls & Automation Support

• Assist with structured PLC code updates (ladder logic, function blocks, tags, and documentation) under engineer supervision.
• Contribute to reliability and performance improvements, including enhanced diagnostics, minor logic optimizations, and safety-related updates.
• Support the configuration, installation, and validation of controls components such as sensors, I/O modules, HMIs, and communication devices.

Machine Reliability & Troubleshooting

• Assist in troubleshooting machine and controls issues using multimeters, software diagnostics, and system logs.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret downtime data to help identify root causes and recommend corrective actions.
• Support testing and validation of PLC and hardware changes prior to release into production.

Hardware & Electrical Support

• Assist with wiring, routing, termination, labeling, and panel updates in accordance with electrical standards.
• Support installation of controls hardware including relays, safety devices, and I/O expansions.
• Maintain and update electrical schematics, prints, and technical documentation as system changes occur.

Semester-Long Technical Project

• Lead a dedicated technical project selected at the start of the internship based on skill level, interests, and plant priorities.
• Potential project areas may include improving machine diagnostics, upgrading controls hardware, developing troubleshooting tools, or standardizing wiring and documentation.
• Present project outcomes—including problem definition, solution design, implementation, and performance impact—to the engineering team at the end of the semester.
• Assisting in closing out Controls Engineering (CE) projects.

Continuous Improvement

• Support targeted downtime reduction and troubleshooting simplification initiatives.
• Provide observations, propose solutions, and assist with implementation within technical capability.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain accurate code logs, wiring updates, test records, and hardware documentation.
• Prepare clear and concise reports on assigned tasks, test results, and project progress.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with engineering, maintenance, quality, and production teams to support controls and reliability efforts.
• Participate in team problem-solving, communicating findings clearly, professionally, and effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment and independently.
• Knowledge of safety standards and protocols in manufacturing environments.
• English proficiency required, with strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support departmental and organizational goals.
• Actively contribute to a positive and collaborative work environment, demonstrating flexibility to adapt to evolving business needs and priorities.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student at an accredited college or university, majoring in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field. Junior or Senior status preferred. Preference given to students attending a Michigan-based institution.
• Foundational understanding of electrical circuits, control systems, or PLC concepts through coursework or hands‑on experience.
• Interest and comfort with hands‑on troubleshooting and technical problem solving.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment and independently.
• Knowledge of safety standards and protocols in manufacturing environments.
• English proficiency required, with strong verbal and written communication skills.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Office Environment: 30%
• Plant Environment: 70%
• The employee must be able to tolerate sitting/standing for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to tolerate the use of a keyboard and mouse on average of 6 hours per workday.
• While working in the Plant environment, the employee will be exposed to machinery, moving equipment and material, moderate noise, airborne particles, fumes, and various levels of temperature created by the manufacturing process.
• This role operates in both office and manufacturing environments.
• Occasional travel may be required to local vendors.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Prolonged standing at least 8 hours, but up to 12 hours per day.
• Lift objects weighing up to 35 pounds.
• Repetitive bending, twisting, turning, lifting.
• Repetitive use of hands, including gripping, grasping, pinching, squeezing.

KEY COMPETENCIES:

• Technical & Analytical Skills: Foundational knowledge of electrical circuits, control systems, and PLC concepts; ability to troubleshoot, analyze downtime data, and implement hardware/software improvements.

• Continuous Improvement & Problem Solving: Ability to identify opportunities for machine reliability and process enhancements, support 5S/standard work initiatives, and contribute solutions that improve efficiency and performance.

• Collaboration & Communication: Works effectively both independently and within cross-functional teams; communicates technical findings clearly and professionally in reports, presentations, and team discussions.

• Project Management & Initiative: Plans, executes, and delivers a semester-long technical project; demonstrates accountability, organization, and flexibility to adapt to evolving plant priorities.

Awareness, Unity, Empowerment:

At Magna, we believe that a diverse workforce is critical to our success. That’s why we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We hire on the basis of experience and qualifications, and in consideration of job requirements, regardless of, in particular, color, ancestry, religion, gender, origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability or gender identity. Magna takes the privacy of your personal information seriously. We discourage you from sending applications via email or traditional mail to comply with GDPR requirements and your local Data Privacy Law.

AI-Assisted Screening Disclosure

As part of our commitment to a fair, consistent, and efficient recruitment process, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the initial screening of applications submitted through our Workday system. These tools help identify qualifications and experience that align with the role requirements. Please note that AI is used solely to support our recruiters. Final decisions are always made by the hiring manager and the hiring team. Importantly, no applicant data is shared externally through these AI tools. All information remains securely within our systems and is handled in accordance with our privacy and data protection policies.

Under conditions defined by applicable law, you may have the right to request an explanation of how AI is used to support decision-making.

If you have any questions or concerns about this process, feel free to contact our Talent Attraction team.

Worker Type:

Intern (Fixed Term) (Trainee)

Group:

Magna Exteriors