Automation Engineering Intern - Chicago

Want to see how engineering and innovation meet real-world business challenges?

Beckhoff USA is seeking an Automation Engineering Intern for Summer 2027 to join our dynamic sales and applications team at our office in Chicago, IL. Beckhoff is an automation pioneer, pushing the limits of what’s possible with PC-based control.

As an Automation Engineering Intern, you’ll explore the intersection of technology, problem-solving, and customer collaboration. You’ll gain first-hand experience in how Beckhoff engineers connect automation solutions to industries like packaging, intralogistics, and other fast-evolving industries. Through mentorship, shadowing, and hands-on projects, you’ll build valuable skills that span both engineering and business.

If you’re eager to grow your technical knowledge, see how engineers work directly with customers, and gain a big-picture view of automation technology in action, this internship is for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Work directly with sales and application engineers as they analyze customer needs and implement solutions.
• Gain exposure to Beckhoff’s full product portfolio through hands-on learning.
• Participate in troubleshooting, testing, and customer demonstrations.
• Collaborate with other interns on cross-functional projects.
• Share your experience and key takeaways with peers and leadership at the end of the program.

Disclaimer: This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. The company reserves the right to modify duties or assign additional responsibilities as necessary to meet business needs. Other duties as assigned.

What Makes This Role Unique

• Bridge Between Tech & Business: Learn not just how automation works, but how it’s applied to solve customer challenges across a variety of industries.
• Industry Impact: Experience how Beckhoff technology powers everything from clean energy to factory automation.

What We’re Looking For – Required Skills & Qualifications

• Have or pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business, Engineering or related technical field from a four-year college or technical school.
• An eagerness to learn about automation hardware and software.
• Basic level of programming proficiency in one or more languages
• Experience with hands on mechanical or electrical project(s)
• Self-starter with a result driven personality.
• Strong analytical and reasoning skills.
• Ability to work in a high stress environment while maintaining professionalism.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including public speaking.

Work Location

This position is based on-site at our office in Chicago, IL. Regular in-person attendance is required to support team collaboration and business operations.

Travel

This position requires varying travel ranging from 5-15% which may include day trips, overnight stays, and occasional extended travel depending on business needs. Travel may be local, regional, or national. All travel-related expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with company policy. Candidates must be able to meet the travel requirements of the role, and reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

What we offer

Benefits

At Beckhoff Automation USA, our privately held, family-owned culture empowers candid collaboration, the freedom to create innovative solutions, and strong relationships built around cutting-edge technology and shared purpose.

• Generous Paid Time Off + Paid Holidays
• Employer paid High-Deductible Medical plan, Dental, and Vision for Employee + Family!
• 401(k) with up to 6% employer match
• Employer-Paid Insurance: Life, AD&D, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
• Elective Benefits: Accident, Critical Illness, Indemnity, and Pet Insurance
• Professional Development Opportunities

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job, with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Ability to stand and sit for extended periods.
• Ability to use a computer screen for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and move as needed to perform job duties.
• Manual dexterity for operating tools and equipment.
• Adequate vision and hearing to perform essential tasks safely.

About Beckhoff

At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders –– to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT, and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation.

As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity, and support for the people behind the automation. So, whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites, or developing fusion energy solutions – you can reach new heights for your business, industry, and humankind.

Beckhoff is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process, participate in an interview, or otherwise take part in the recruitment process, please contact our Talent & Culture Team.