Talos Engineering
Automation Engineering Richland, Washington
Overview
I am currently working as an Automation Engineering Intern at Talos Engineering in Pichland, Washington, where I am getting hands on experience with the PLC programming and controls work that goes into real industrial and manufacturing equipment. This is active, ongoing work, and my responsibilities are still growing as I learn the systems.
Context
Talos Engineering builds and supports automation systems for industrial and manufacturing applications. My work centers on the control logic and integration work that keeps that equipment running safely and correctly, alongside automation engineers who review and guide the work.
What I am doing
- PLC programming. Developing and modifying industrial PLC ladder logic in Allen-Bradley Studio 5000 for automation and manufacturing applications.
- Commissioning support. Supporting commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting of PLC controlled industrial equipment.
- Sensor and control integration. Collaborating with automation engineers to integrate sensors, actuators, and electrical control systems into customer solutions.
How I approach the work
Because this work runs on live industrial equipment, the process matters as much as the result.
- Following existing plant standards and conventions when writing ladder logic so it stays maintainable for the full engineering team
- Testing logic changes carefully before they touch live equipment
- Getting review on control changes before commissioning
- Documenting PLC and control changes so they are traceable later
Testing and troubleshooting
- Verifying ladder logic behavior against expected equipment states before deployment
- Diagnosing issues with sensors, wiring, and I/O during commissioning
- Working alongside senior engineers on more complex control issues
Challenges
Industrial controls work has a much smaller margin for error than school projects. A large part of this internship has been learning to slow down, verify logic carefully, and understand the equipment before making changes, instead of just getting something to technically function.
Current status
In progress
This internship began in June 2026 and is active. My scope of responsibility is still expanding, and the specific systems I work on are still developing. This page reflects the current state of the role, not a finished set of deliverables.
What I am learning
- How PLC controlled systems are specified, tested, and deployed outside of a classroom setting
- Practical judgment around industrial safety and change control
- How controls engineering connects to the rest of an automation project, including mechanical and electrical teams