• Intern Research and Development

    Powell Industries, Inc. (Houston, TX)


    At Powell, we’re committed to enhancing lives by delivering reliable power distribution systems across diverse markets, from industrial to renewables. As a global leader, we prioritize our Core Values—Customer First, Respect for Employees, Continuous Improvement, and a “Can-Do” Attitude—to provide innovative, cost-effective solutions that power communities worldwide. Join us to be part of a team dedicated to solving real-world challenges and shaping the future of energy.

     

    Internship Overview

     

    Powell’s 10-week paid internship program offers college students hands-on experience, professional training, and the opportunity to make an impact through a meaningful project aligned with your field of study. As a Research and Development Engineering Intern, you’ll focus on designing and optimizing indicators for high-speed mechanisms, gaining valuable skills in a dynamic, collaborative environment.

     

    Project Focus

     

    + Develop a deep understanding of criteria for repeatable, high-performance indicator designs

    + Design, prototype, and procure parts for three unique indicator concepts.

    + Build, test, and troubleshoot each design to evaluate performance.

    + Analyze and assess the feasibility of each concept to recommend optimal solutions.

     

    What You’ll Gain

     

    + Hands-On Experience: Work on real-world engineering challenges with cutting-edge technology.

    + Mentorship: Collaborate with and learn from experienced engineers and business leaders.

    + Professional Growth: Enhance your technical and interpersonal skills in a team-oriented setting.

    + Networking: Engage with industry professionals and participate in fun social events.

    + Community Impact: Contribute to Powell’s mission of powering communities globally.

     

    Who We’re Looking For

     

    + We seek motivated, curious, and driven students with the following qualifications:

    + Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Power Engineering, or a related field from an accredited institution.

    + Rising Junior or Senior continuing studies in Fall 2027.

    + Minimum 3.0 GPA and strong academic standing.

    + Team player with strong communication, multitasking, and interpersonal skills.

    + Self-starter with a dependable, can-do attitude.

    + Bonus Skills: Experience with CAD (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) or Finite Element Analysis (FEA).

     

    Program Benefits

     

    + Competitive pay for a 10-week summer internship.

    + Exposure to a collaborative team environment and meaningful projects.

    + Opportunities to interact with Powell’s leadership team.

    + Fun social events and community involvement activities.

     

    Successful Tips

     

    + Update your resume to highlight relevant coursework, projects, GPA, and any CAD/FEA experience.

    + Emphasize your academic background in Mechanical or Power Engineering, any CAD or FEA experience, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Highlight projects or coursework related to design, prototyping, or testing, even if not directly tied to high-speed mechanisms.

    + Be ready to discuss your technical skills, teamwork experiences, and interest in power distribution systems or mechanical design.

     

    Join Powell and make a difference in the world of energy!

     

    Important Notes

     

    Sponsorship: Powell is unable to provide sponsorship for H1-B, F1, or OPT visas at this time.

     

    In our 75+ year history, Powell has always known that our employees are at the heart of our success. Without question, we have the most talented people in all parts of our organization. As a manufacturer, we recruit and hire experienced and knowledgeable applicants to ensure our product is engineered, fabricated, and assembled to customer specifications!

     

    Powell’s culture has and will always be founded in our "can do" attitude. If we can imagine it, we can do it. Become a part of our story and let us help you write yours. Hard work pays off in all our teams, with opportunity for advancement and promotion without sacrificing work-life balance. Successful candidates must have a legal authorization to work in the United States on a full-time basis, with only those candidates selected for interview contacted.

     

    Powell offers comprehensive health insurance for you and your family, 401k savings, annual bonus potential, generous paid time off, professional development opportunities, company-sponsored wellness programs, and a collaborative work environment.

     

    EOE Protected Veterans/Disability

     

    If you need an accommodation in the hiring process, you may contact 713.378.2685. Application status inquiries will not be accepted in this manner.