Automation System Technology/EE Design Intern (Summer 2026)

Overview

Summer internship programming PLC/HMI automation systems for building engineering projects.

Key Responsibilities

• plc programming
• hmi programming
• electrical diagrams
• system diagrams
• valve sizing
• instrumentation specs

Tasks

This position includes primarily programming of PLCs and HMIs but may also branch into other areas including preparation of electrical diagrams, system block diagrams, facility electrical plans, P&IDs, logic diagrams, elementary control diagrams, communications diagrams, control valve sizing and operation, instrumentation specifications, and control equipment specifications.

Requirements

• programming
• communication
• junior
• ethernet
• problem solving
• plc

What You Bring

A self-sufficient programmer with good communication skills and the ability to take direction and guidance is required for this role. The programmer is expected to learn and progress in programming throughout the summer program. This is a team environment but will require the individual to work independently under direct supervision to adhere to strict programming standards of the project. HDR is currently seeking to hire engineering students for an immersion program in Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) / Human Machine Interface (HMI) programming for the summer period. The programmers will work full time as an integral part of the Building Engineering Services (BES) team in our Denver office. The primary role of these Automation System Technologists will be to perform hands on PLC and HMI programming tasks to support large programming projects but may also include other I&C or Electrical Engineering tasks. PLCs and HMIs are unique industrial automation equipment that are programmed to control factories, refineries, mining operations, water and wastewater facilities throughout the world. While some programming experience is desirable, this programming is unlike typical structured text programming language (C++, BASIC, Python…). HDR will teach the programmers in the proper programming techniques and style. This position requires a programmer who can take direction on how to program the automation equipment for proper and safe process control. The programmer must be detailed oriented. An understanding of industrial, mining, water or wastewater processes is desirable, but not required. This position will include hands on training in Operational Technology (OT) best practices, good engineering judgment, project management and other topics. This position will work under Senior I&C lead engineer / programmers. The programs will be tested on HDRs OT lab that includes PLCs, hypervisor server and other equipment. A demonstration of the program features will be performed by the programmers during this period to HDR process personnel and possibly the customer. -Programming knowledge is desired to better understand program structures, number systems, and Boolean logic. -Candidate must have excellent communication skills, both oral and written. -Junior Level or Higher -Ethernet networking understanding and experience is a plus. -Must have good problemsolving skills. -ACAD Proficiency is a plus. -Color acuity is required (i.e. cannot be color blind). -The candidate must be able to work independently, as a member of a multidiscipline consulting team

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Benefits

The location is in the downtown Denver area, and no field work is expected. Parking is not available at the office, but the office is close to the Civic Center for access to public transportation. Working from home or remotely is not practical due to the unique learning environment and lab system required to test the PLC code.

About Hdr

-provides innovative and sustainable solutions for infrastructure, buildings, and the environment. -combines engineering, architecture, and environmental stewardship in a holistic approach. -designing award-winning transit systems, water treatment plants, and energy-efficient buildings. -iconic public buildings and large-scale infrastructure projects.

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