Internship – Smelter Electrical Engineer

Shape Your World

At Alcoa, you will become an essential part of our purpose: to turn raw potential into real progress. The way we see it, every Alcoan is a work-shaper, team-shaper, idea-shaper & world-shaper.

About the Role

The Smelter Electrical Engineering Intern will support electrical engineering initiatives within a heavy industrial smelting operation. This internship offers hands‑on experience with power systems, motor drives, PLCs, and troubleshooting activities across large‑scale manufacturing processes. The intern will work alongside engineers, electricians, and operations teams to enhance system reliability, ensure safe operation of equipment, and contribute to ongoing electrical improvement projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with multiple small‑scale mechanical projects, including improvements to process equipment and production systems.
• Support troubleshooting, assessments, and documentation related to pneumatic, hydraulic, and mechanical systems.
• Conduct field observations, collect technical data, and support equipment enhancement activities.
• Collaborate with engineers, maintenance personnel, and operations teams to implement mechanical improvements.
• Participate in planning, coordination, and execution of assigned engineering tasks.

Working Conditions

• Work occurs in a heavy industrial smelting environment, including active production areas.
• Exposure to heat, noise, energized equipment, and large industrial machinery.
• May require walking, climbing, standing for extended periods, or working near operational electrical systems.
• Standard weekday schedule: occasional adjustments may be needed based on project activities.

Environmental Responsibilities

• Follow all facility environmental policies and compliance requirements.
• Support electrical projects that contribute to improved energy efficiency, equipment reliability, or reduced environmental impact.
• Demonstrate environmentally responsible practices when working in the field or with electrical equipment.

Safety Responsibilities

• Follow all smelter electrical safety procedures, PPE requirements, LOTO standards, and safe‑work practices.
• Participate in risk identification activities related to electrical equipment, drives, and control systems.
• Maintain safe behaviors during troubleshooting, field assessments, and project work.

What you can bring to the role

Our values – act with integrity, operate with excellence, care for people, lead with courage – are at the foundation of everything we do. To be successful in this role and to play a part in our ongoing success we desire the following background:

Minimum Qualifications

• Enrollment in an Electrical Engineering degree program.
• Interest in power systems, controls, and industrial automation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Coursework or experience related to power distribution, motor drives, PLCs, or industrial electrical systems.
• Familiarity with electrical schematics, control diagrams, or troubleshooting methods.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong problem‑solving and analytical abilities.
• Ability to work safely around energized systems and industrial equipment.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Attention to detail in documentation, field observations, and troubleshooting.
• Willingness to learn, take initiative, and participate in hands‑on engineering tasks.

About the Location

Alcoa “Warrick” based in Newburgh, Indiana just outside of Evansville, IN has been present in the lives of many families in our community for over 60 years. We’ve grown and we’ve matured together. Now we are looking for our next generation of Alcoans to bring us into the future. You can be one of them! Join us and get ready to experience endless opportunities!

We are values led, vision driven and united by our purpose of transforming raw potential into real progress.  Our commitments to Inclusion, Diversity & Equity include providing trusting workplaces that are safe, respectful and inclusive of all individuals, free from discrimination, bullying and harassment and that our workplaces reflect the diversity of the communities in which we operate.   

As a proud equal opportunity workplace and affirmative action employer, Alcoa is dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of a person’s gender, age, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, nation of origin, disability, veteran status, language spoken or any other characteristic or status protected by the laws or regulations in the places where we operate.  

If you have visited our website in search of information on U.S. employment opportunities or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation, please contact Alcoa Recruiting via email at gssrecruiting@alcoa.com.  

This is a place where you are empowered to do your best work, be your authentic self, and feel a true sense of belonging. Come join us and shape your career!  

Your work. Your world. Shape them for the better.