2026 Co-Op, Automation Engineer, Automation & Controls

The Role

This is a 5 month Spring Co-Op opportunity in Marlborough, MA from July, 2026 – December, 2026. Applicants must be available for the entire duration of the internship. Start date will be July 20, 2026.

The Global Manufacturing Systems organization at Moderna is seeking a highly motivated Automation Engineering Co-Op to support the design, development, and deployment of automation solutions for mRNA manufacturing. This role offers hands-on experience working with DeltaV, PLCs, and physical instrumentation, while contributing to real GMP manufacturing systems used to deliver life-changing medicines.

You will work alongside experienced automation engineers in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, gaining exposure to process control systems, manufacturing execution, and equipment integration across development and commercial manufacturing.

Here’s What You’ll Do

• Work closely with experienced automation engineers to quickly learn automation platforms, tools, and best practices.

• Assist in developing, configuring, and testing DeltaV and PLC-based control logic.

• Support the creation and modification of automation logic, sequences, and control strategies.

• Develop and enhance HMI graphics to support safe and efficient manufacturing operations.

• Help integrate physical instrumentation (sensors, analyzers, and equipment) into automation systems.

• Participate in debugging, troubleshooting, and system testing activities.

• Contribute to writing clean, well-documented automation code and configurations.

• Support GMP documentation, testing, and validation activities.

• Shadow engineers during code reviews, deployments, and live manufacturing support.

• Engage in training opportunities to build both technical and professional skills.

• Follow and apply industry and GMP standards in pharmaceutical manufacturing environments.

Here’s What You’ll Need (Basic Qualifications)

• Current student enrolled in a Bachelors or Masters program in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field

• Strong fundamental scientific and engineering skills for the support of Process Automation systems

• Familiarity with at least one programming language (e.g., Python, JavaScript, Go, Java, or C++).

• Curiosity about process automation development.

• PCS and PLC-based automation systems.

• Strong problem-solving skills, willingness to learn, and ability to work in a team.

• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.

• At Moderna, we are focused on delivering on our mission by enabling talent to thrive. For this role, we are currently unable to offer immigration sponsorship. Candidates must already hold work authorization in US and be able to maintain that status without the need for future sponsorship.

• This position is site-based, requiring you to be at Moderna’s site full-time. This position is not eligible for remote work.

Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table (Preferred Qualifications)

• Exposure to automation systems, PLCs, HMI development, or industrial control concepts.

• Familiarity with DeltaV, PLC platforms, or industrial networking (a plus, not required).

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to high-performing teams.

• A desire to make an impact as part of a high-growth, transformational company that is Bold, Relentless, Curious, and Collaborative.

Pay & Benefits

At Moderna, we believe that when you feel your best, you can do your best work.  That’s why our co-op benefits are designed to support you during your time with us —at work, at home, and everywhere in between.

• Free premium access to meditation and mindfulness classes

• Subsidized commuter benefits

• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick time, holidays, volunteer days, and a discretionary year-end shutdown

• Location-specific perks and extras

The salary range for this role is $20.00 - $60.00. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An individual’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant