ALCM/PLC Automation Intern

Location: Vacaville, CA - Onsite

We are actively recruiting candidates to participate in our 2026 On-site Internship program. This position is 12 weeks in length and will immerse you in the culture and operations of Lonza Vacaville. 

The internship begins in May/June and ends in August. Potential interns must be able to commit to at least 40 hours per week throughout the summer. 

What you will get:

The full-time hourly rate for this position is expected to range between $26 -$38. Compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including the successful candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies, experience, and job-related knowledge.

This internship is located at LONZA's production facility in Vacaville, California. The production facility makes pharmaceutical proteins from mammalian cells using large-scale production techniques. The Automation Lifecycle Management team supports all PLC based systems including VSC (vendor supplied controllers) for the entire Vacaville site. Additionally, the team supports projects for new products, equipment, and system upgrades across the site. We are seeking a motivated Intern to join our team. The successful candidate will have very strong communication skills, be self-motivated/driven and showcase problem solving mindset. 

What you will do:

•  Work with team members on current projects to strategize on various roadblocks that arise through project life cycle   

• Support various PLC issues that arise during operations   

• Develop a high level overview of all standalone control systems on site and how they integrate with higher level systems   

• Work with various Automation/Infrastructure groups to understand the variety of control systems and software implemented throughout the site   

• Understand system lifecycle documentation within a GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) environment and the change control process by way of Automation Change Records and Change Control Records 

• A candidate will stand out with automation software skills (controller programming, graphic development, configuration and process knowledge), scripting language background, ability to read technical documentation, etc. 

 What we are looking for: 

• Completion of junior year (typically 90 credits) towards a B.S. degree Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science or a related field.

• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (out of 4) required 

• Must currently be enrolled in BS or MS Academic Program

• Proactive, detail-oriented team player with strong communication and collaborative problem-solving skills.

• Knowledge/experience with control systems and coding/scripting software is a plus  

• Proficient computer skills (i.e. Microsoft, Windows, etc.), excellent written and verbal communication skills.   

• Self-directed and able to work without full supervision (guidance will always be provided).

Work Environment 

This job position involves working in a laboratory setting with potential hazardous chemicals and other laboratory related hazards. All employees must practice safe work habits, including complying with all safety, health, and environmental rules and regulations. 

About Lonza

At Lonza, our people are our greatest strength. With 30+ sites across five continents, our globally connected teams work together every day to manufacture the medicines of tomorrow. Our core values of Collaboration, Accountability, Excellence, Passion and Integrity reflect who we are and how we work together. Everyone’s ideas, big or small, have the potential to improve millions of lives, and that’s the kind of work we want you to be part of.

Innovation thrives when people from all backgrounds bring their unique perspectives to the table. At Lonza, we offer equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you’re ready to help turn our customers’ breakthrough ideas into viable therapies, we look forward to welcoming you on board.

Ready to shape the future of life sciences? Apply now.