System Integrator Intern – I – Critical Infrastructure

Smart Tech Contracting delivers turnkey BAS & EPMS solutions for mission-critical colocation and hyperscale data centers operating at national program scale. As a Master Systems Integrator (MSI), we unify controls construction (DDC, PLC, SCADA) with software engineering, optimized graphics / UI standards, and program-level governance.
Complex integrations are delivered cleanly, consistently, and fast. Our teams thrive in high-stakes environments where quality control and uptime matters, schedules are compressed, and coordination is everything.
Join us and be part of a team where your voice matters, your work makes an impact, and your growth is a shared priority.
Position Title: System Integrator Intern – I – Critical Infrastructure
Position Location: Remote - work virtually from anywhere in the United States, Atlanta, GA, or Dallas, TX
Summer 2027 Internship Dates: May 17th, 2027- August 13th, 2027
Job Summary
The System Integration Intern supports the installation, startup, testing, commissioning, and deployment of Building Automation Systems (BAS), Electrical Power Monitoring Systems (EPMS), PLC, and SCADA systems on mission-critical infrastructure projects.
This is a hands-on field-focused internship designed for students and early-career individuals interested in industrial automation, controls, commissioning, and system integration. Interns will work alongside experienced System Integrators, Controls Engineers, and SCADA Engineers to learn how physical equipment, field devices, PLCs, networks, and software systems operate together.
Interns will gain experience working at the intersection of controls hardware, industrial networking, PLCs, SCADA software, and field deployment activities. The role serves as a bridge between physical system installation and software implementation, helping interns understand how automation systems are deployed, validated, commissioned, and supported in real-world environments.
This position includes significant project-site exposure and provides opportunities to participate in construction, startup, testing, commissioning, deployment, and Integrated Systems Testing (IST) activities.
Essential Functions
Installation, Startup & Field Support
Assist with verification of controls installations and field wiring
Support point-to-point checkout and I/O verification activities
Assist with startup and testing of BAS, EPMS, PLC, and SCADA systems
Help verify field devices, sensors, actuators, instrumentation, and network communications
Support troubleshooting efforts during startup and commissioning activities
Document field observations, deficiencies, and corrective actions
Testing & Commissioning
Participate in system startup, commissioning, and Integrated Systems Testing (IST) activities
Assist with execution of test procedures and validation of system operation
Support functional testing of equipment and control sequences
Help verify system operation against project requirements and sequences of operation
Assist with owner demonstrations and turnover activities when appropriate
Controls & Automation Exposure
Gain exposure to Rockwell Automation PLC platforms and industrial control systems
Assist with PLC startup, troubleshooting, and communications testing
Learn SCADA fundamentals, including Ignition 8.3 deployment and operation
Learn software deployment, gateway administration, and system validation practices
Gain exposure to industrial communication protocols including Ethernet/IP, Modbus, BACnet, MQTT, and OPC UA
Assist with validating connectivity between PLCs, SCADA systems, databases, APIs, and enterprise applications
Gain exposure to operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) integration concepts
Learn how industrial protocols are used to integrate PLCs, SCADA systems, BAS systems, EPMS systems, field devices, and enterprise applications
Technical Documentation & Digital Tools
Complete daily reports, field notes, issue logs, and testing documentation
Assist with updating redlines, as-built documentation, and punch lists
Use Microsoft Office and digital project tools to organize project information
Gain exposure to Git, Azure DevOps, and software development workflows
Utilize approved AI-enabled tools to improve reporting, documentation, and learning
Technical Growth & Development
Participate in Ignition 8.3 training with the potential opportunity to earn an Ignition Core Certification
Participate in OSHA 10 safety training and other professional development opportunities as applicable
Learn commissioning, startup, deployment, and troubleshooting best practices from experienced field personnel
Gain practical exposure to mission-critical infrastructure environments
Participate in technical training, toolbox talks, and project coordination meetings
Demonstrate continuous improvement through feedback, learning, and hands-on experience
Completion of Assigned Tasks and Deliverables on Time and on Budget
Performs Other Related Duties as Assigned
Position Requirements
Interest in controls, automation, commissioning, PLCs, SCADA, and industrial systems
Basic understanding of electrical systems, networking, automation, or mechanical systems
Willingness to work in construction and commissioning environments
Strong communication skills and willingness to learn
Ability to work both independently and as part of a project team
Ability to travel to project sites as required
Preferred (not Required)
Exposure to PLCs, SCADA systems, BAS, EPMS, or industrial automation systems
Familiarity with Rockwell Automation products
Exposure to Ignition, Modbus, BACnet, MQTT, OPC UA, or industrial networking
Exposure to Git, Azure DevOps, Docker, Kubernetes, or modern software deployment tools
Familiarity with APIs, JSON, MQTT, software integration concepts, or AI-assisted development
Previous internship, trade school, laboratory, military, or hands-on technical experience
Experience using hand tools, meters, testing equipment, or troubleshooting electrical systems
DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Ignition 8.3 SCADA deployment, administration, and development
Potential opportunity to earn an Ignition Core Certification
OSHA 10 Certification
Rockwell Automation PLC hardware and software platforms
Startup, commissioning, Integrated Systems Testing (IST), and owner acceptance activities
BAS, EPMS, PLC, and SCADA integration
Industrial networking fundamentals including switches, VLANs, routing, and network troubleshooting
Industrial communication protocols including EtherNet/IP, BACnet/IP, BACnet MS/TP, Modbus TCP, Modbus RTU, MQTT, and OPC UA
Troubleshooting communications between PLCs, SCADA systems, field controllers, sensors, meters, and third-party equipment
System integration between operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) environments
Git, Azure DevOps, and modern software delivery practices
Docker containers, Kubernetes, and orchestration fundamentals
APIs, databases, and software integration concepts
Generative AI, agentic AI, and AI-assisted engineering workflows
Field troubleshooting, deployment, operational support, and system validation
Mentorship from experienced System Integrators, Controls Engineers, and SCADA Engineers
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The following physical demands must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Frequently standing, walking, climbing ladders, and working in active construction environments
Working in mechanical rooms, electrical rooms, rooftops, and confined spaces
Lifting and carrying equipment weighing up to 50 pounds
Working in varying environmental conditions, including heat, cold, humidity, dust, noise, and outdoor weather
Using hand tools, test equipment, laptops, and instrumentation for extended periods
Traveling to customer sites and working extended hours during project startup and commissioning activities as required
TRAVEL / RELOCATION REQUIREMENTS
Approximately 50–75% travel is required based on project assignments
Travel may include overnight stays, extended assignments at customer project sites, and temporary relocation for the duration of major construction projects
Employees who reside within a reasonable commuting distance of the assigned project site will be expected to travel to and from the site daily rather than utilize overnight accommodations
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and be able to travel by automobile and commercial air as required

Work arrangement
No