Machine and Automation Intern
About Us:
We are more than just chainsaws, blowers, and trimmers. We have a long-standing tradition of hiring diverse, talented people who help make STIHL a successful, world-class brand. Since revolutionizing the forestry industry in Germany with the first electric chainsaw in 1926, the STIHL name has remained synonymous with outstanding innovation, high-quality products, and comprehensive services.
As part of our internship program, students will have the opportunity to:
- Gain hands-on, real-world experience within a leading industry, working on meaningful projects that contribute to day-to-day operations and long-term initiatives
- Volunteer to assist with company events such as the Family Picnic, Employee Summit, Manufacturing Technology Summer Camp, and other events as needed.
- Complete a final presentation outlining their internship experience, which may be presented to their direct supervisor and colleagues.
- Gain hands-on exposure to projects, team collaboration, and professional development opportunities designed to prepare them for future careers.
- Participate in learning sessions, networking opportunities, and community-building activities across the organization.
Job Duties & Responsibilities:
Join us for an exciting summer! We have an exciting opportunity for you to join our Machine and Automation team as a Machine & Automation Intern.
As a Machine & Automation Intern, you will be exposed to hands-on automation implementation, system troubleshooting, and design support within a manufacturing environment. This role offers the opportunity to work alongside engineers on both externally delivered and in-house–designed automated systems, gaining practical experience in installation, testing, data analysis, and continuous improvement.
In this role, you will support the Machine & Automation teams by assisting with system installation, troubleshooting, data collection and analysis, and small-scale design or program changes. You will contribute to new technology buy (NTB) testing, proof-of-concept efforts, and RFQ development while gaining insight into how automation solutions are designed, built, implemented, and optimized for production
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist with the installation and implementation of automated systems delivered to STIHL Inc. or designed in-house.
- Support troubleshooting efforts, root cause analysis, and system performance observations
- Collect and analyze automation data to support engineering decision-making
- Assist with small design modifications and minor program changes as needed
- Support NTB (New Technology Buy) testing and validation activities
- Assist with RFQs and project specifications for new automation initiatives
- Support in-house automation projects by assisting with assembly, wiring, and plumbing
- Develop 2D drawings for components, assemblies, and subassemblies
- Assist with proof-of-concept builds and testing
- Collaborate with engineers throughout design, installation, and optimization phases
Internship Goals:
- Improve the performance of installed automations at STIHL Inc.
- Develop strategies for ramping up automations
- Understanding the scope and importance of root cause analysis
- Learn how automations are designed and built
- Produce documentation for projects and understand the importance of a well-documented project
Specifications:
Candidate Perferences
Academic Year: Sophomore, Junior, Senior
Area of Study: Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics
Software Experience: SolidWorks, MS Office
Additional Information:
Work Hours: 8:00AM-4:30PM
Department: Machine and Automation
Compensation: $20/hr
Nearest Major Market: Virginia Beach