Acme Manufacturing, the global leading machine tool builder for the Medical, Aerospace, Firearms industries and many others, seeks a motivated Automation Engineering Intern.

What You’ll Be Able to Do

The Automation Engineering Summer Intern will support the Automation and Software Engineering teams by gaining hands-on experience in robotics, controls, and digital manufacturing processes. This role will provide direct exposure to real-world automation projects, including process mapping, robotic programming, and HMI development.

The intern will shadow experienced engineers, contribute to active customer programs, and help enhance internal training systems through modern digital tools such as video and avatar-based instruction.

This position offers a unique opportunity to bridge mechanical, electrical, and software engineering disciplines while contributing to high-impact automation initiatives.

Core Responsibilities Include

Shadow automation and software engineers to understand system design, integration, and commissioning workflows
Support active project work, including developing a time-flow/process map for manufacturing programs (e.g., PW Lansing / Wabtec projects)
Analyze and document process steps from part input through finished output to identify bottlenecks and improvement opportunities
Assist in robotic programming and simulation (offline programming, path optimization, and validation)
Support HMI (Human Machine Interface) development, including screen layouts, user interaction flows, and usability improvements
Assist with data collection and visualization from automation systems (cycle time, efficiency, downtime tracking)

Review the Acme Automation Training Documentation and enhance it by:

Creating video-based training modules
Developing avatar-guided instruction content
Improving structure, clarity, and accessibility of training materials

Support development of standardized automation workflows and best practices
Assist with system testing, debugging, and validation activities

Document findings, improvements, and recommendations for continuous improvement initiatives

Experience / Qualifications

To perform this role successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and ability required.

Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field from an ABET accredited four-year college or university

Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
Interest in engineering documentation, process improvement, and digital transformation
Strong interest in automation, robotics, and industrial software systems

Basic understanding of: PLCs, robotics, or control systems

Manufacturing processes and industrial automation concepts

Familiarity with any of the following is a plus:

Robot programming (FANUC and/or ABB)
HMI/SCADA systems
Programming languages (Python, C++, or similar)
CAD or simulation tools

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to interpret technical processes and workflows
Strong communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative team environment
Self-motivated with a willingness to learn in a fast-paced, hands-on environment

About Acme

Acme Manufacturing Company is one of the earliest pioneers in surface finishing automation. Since 1910, the company has remained family owned and operated by four generations of the Carlson family. The family has brought a steady sequence of innovations to over 20 industries on a global scale. As the premiere robotic integrator in the surface finishing space, Acme has built a family culture with values that continue to drive our technology focused mindset.

We are looking for talented, hard-working individuals to join our team. Come grow with us and let us show you why Acme Manufacturing has limitless opportunities in the robotic surface finishing space.

Acme Mission

We are committed to being a world class organization providing innovative and cost-effective automation solutions for everyday material removal and surface finishing challenges. Our culture drives unparalleled focus on relationships, safety, quality, technology, and profitability. We believe partnering with our customers from project concept to factory floor production, provides the ultimate advantage for Acme employees and our valued customers.

Disclaimer

This is an outline of the primary responsibilities of this position. As with everything in life, things change. The tasks and responsibilities can be changed, added to, removed, amended, deleted and modified at any time by the leadership group.

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