Mechanical Engineering Intern Jobs in Illinois

INTRODUCTION

Novaspect, Inc., an Emerson Impact Partner and a global leader in automation systems and solutions, is seeking a motivated and curious Operational Technology (OT) Engineer Intern to join our team.

This is a hands-on opportunity to gain exposure to industrial automation, control systems, and operational technology environments while working alongside experienced engineers supporting real customer systems. The intern will contribute to project execution, system support, and troubleshooting activities while developing a strong foundation in OT systems and infrastructure.

OT Engineer Intern Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Support OT engineering and field teams by:

• Assisting with configuration and documentation of Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and related OT systems
• Supporting development and review of system designs, network diagrams, and technical documentation
• Assisting with setup and configuration of control system environments, including Windows-based systems and basic network components
• Supporting integration efforts between DCS, PLCs, and field devices

Gain exposure to real-world OT system work by:

• Participating in system testing, simulation, and validation activities
• Assisting with preparation for Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT)
• Supporting troubleshooting activities for control systems, instrumentation, and networks (under guidance)
• Observing or assisting with commissioning, startup, and site support activities (as applicable)

Develop operational and customer-facing skills by:

• Participating in project meetings, design reviews, and team discussions
• Assisting with creation of engineering reports and documentation
• Supporting organization and maintenance of project files and engineering standards
• Learning how engineers interact with customers to understand requirements and resolve issues

Support continuous improvement and team initiatives by:

• Assisting with internal tools, templates, and process improvements
• Learning and applying industry standards, best practices, and cybersecurity fundamentals
• Supporting development of test environments or internal lab capabilities

OT Engineer Intern Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Chemical, Mechanical, Computer, or related field)
• Interest in OT systems, control systems, industrial networks, or process automation
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications
• Exposure to any of the following is a plus (not required): Control systems (DCS/PLC), Networking fundamentals (Ethernet, IP, etc.), Basic programming or scripting, Windows system configuration

OT Engineer Intern Additional Requirements:

• Strong interest in industrial automation, control systems, and operational technology
• Curiosity around how systems work end-to-end (controls, networks, infrastructure)
• Ability to troubleshoot problems with a structured, logical approach
• Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn in a hands-on environment
• Effective communication skills and ability to work in a team setting
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced project environment
• Willingness to learn new tools, systems, and technologies

OT Engineer Intern Physical Requirements

• Ability to work extended hours on a computer
• Ability to work in an office and occasional industrial environment
• Interest or willingness to visit customer sites (as opportunities allow)

OT Engineer Intern Schedule & Location

• Hours: Full-Time, 40 hours per week
• Location: Onsite in our Schaumburg, IL office

OT Engineer Intern Pay:

Compensation is based on the upcoming academic year you will enter after completing the Internship:

• Sophomore year: $23.00/hr
• Junior year: $24.00/hr
• Senior year: $25.00/hr
• 5th year: $26.00/hr

What You’ll Gain:

• Hands-on experience with real OT and control system projects
• Exposure to DCS platforms, industrial networks, and system infrastructure
• Mentorship from experienced OT and control system engineers
• Insight into troubleshooting, commissioning, and system lifecycle support
• Understanding of how engineering teams support customers in live production environments
• Potential pathway to a full-time OT or control system engineering role

Who We Are: Novaspect, Inc., is an employee-owned company that engineers, sells, and services industrial process controls. Our Core Purpose is to improve our customer’s performance through the innovative application of technology. We are passionate about creating effective processes and building customer relationships. We position ourselves to attract the best talent and ensure we are delivering local services with proven technologies.