What You’ll Do
You’ll support real estimating work while receiving coaching and feedback from experienced team members. Your work may include:
Assisting with quantity takeoffs, pricing, and organizing estimate information
Learning how electrical and automation projects are planned and prepared for bid
Reviewing drawings, specifications, P&IDs, and other project documents
Helping prepare proposals, scope letters, assumptions, clarifications, and vendor requests
Learning about electrical power distribution, control systems, instrumentation, and automation
Gaining exposure to systems and equipment such as PLCs, HMIs, MCCs, VFDs, and control panels
Participating in estimate reviews and bid-preparation activities
Collaborating with estimators, engineers, project managers, supply chain, panel shop, sales, operations, and field teams
Attending job walks, pre-bid meetings, or project discussions when appropriate
Completing meaningful assignments that build your technical, communication, and problem-solving skills
What You’ll Learn
This internship helps connect classroom learning to real-world projects. You’ll build foundational experience in:
Electrical and automation estimating
Reading construction drawings and specifications
Industrial electrical systems, controls, and instrumentation
Project planning, pricing, and proposal development
Team communication and collaboration
Safety, quality, and problem-solving in industrial project environments
Career paths in estimating, electrical construction, engineering, and automation
What We’re Looking For
You don’t need to know everything on day one. We’re looking for students who are dependable, detail-oriented, and ready to learn from a team that wants to help you grow.
Education
Currently pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree in construction management, electrical technology, automation, instrumentation, engineering technology, electrical engineering, business, or a related field.
Skills & Interests
- Interest in estimating, construction, electrical systems, controls, instrumentation, or automation
- Strong attention to detail and organization
- Analytical thinking and a problem-solving mindset
- Clear written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to manage time, meet deadlines, and follow defined processes
- Willingness to ask questions, receive feedback, and work as part of a team
- Familiarity with Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, Adobe Acrobat, or similar tools is helpful
- Familiarity with drawings, electrical systems, PLCs, HMIs, MCCs, VFDs, or basic electrical calculations is helpful—but not required
No previous estimating or industry experience is required. We’ll help you build the skills and confidence to take the next step in your career.
Travel Requirements
Some travel may be required for job walks, project meetings, or other business needs.
Location
Based in either the Sioux Center, Iowa, or Sioux Falls, South Dakota, office.
Why Intern at Interstates?
This is more than an internship—it’s a chance to explore a career, contribute to meaningful work, and learn from people who want to see you succeed.
At Interstates, you can expect
Real-world experience supporting electrical and automation projects
Coaching and feedback from experienced estimators and project professionals
Exposure to multiple career paths in electrical construction, engineering, and automation
A safety-focused, team-oriented workplace
Career coaching and development opportunities
Company-sponsored holiday events, team celebrations, and community outreach volunteer time
Company discount perk program
Travel pay, when applicable
Let’s Build What’s Next—Together.
At Interstates, we treat each other like family because our team is the foundation for our success. We’re focused on building a collaborative workplace based on trust, integrity, and support for one another.
If you’re ready to gain experience, grow your skills, and help shape the projects of tomorrow, apply for the Electrical & Automation Estimating Internship.
What You Should Know Before You Apply
Interstates may collect personal information as part of your job application, such as your contact details, work history, education, and any information you provide. This information is used only for recruitment, to evaluate your candidacy, and to meet legal requirements. For details about our privacy practices and your rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), please see our Privacy Policy. By applying, you acknowledge that you have reviewed this notice.
Interstates is an EEO provider and offers a drug-free workplace. Employment at Interstates is at-will and may be terminated at any time with or without notice or cause, except as otherwise provided by law.
