I & E Technician Intern

Kern Energy•Bakersfield, CA

3d•$20 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

Kern Energy is seeking and Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) Intern will support the refinery’s electrical and instrumentation team and gain hands-on experience in maintaining, troubleshooting, and installing process control and electrical equipment. Under the direct supervision of the I&E Supervisor, the intern will assist with fieldwork, calibration, and maintenance projects while learning about refinery systems and safety procedures. The successful candidate will exhibit Kern’s core values of Teamwork, Safety, Excellence, Integrity, and Connection.

Requirements

Foundational understanding of schematic drawings, including pneumatic loops, relay logic diagrams, PLC control programs, and motor control circuit diagrams.
Basic ability to identify and associate circuit symbols with electrical and electronic components such as resistors, capacitors, transistors, relays, and contactors.
Familiarity with electrical and electronic principles, including voltage, current, and resistance relationships.
Basic mathematical skills, including algebra, to support calculations used in instrumentation and electrical systems.
Awareness of variable frequency drives (VFDs) and their role in motor control systems.
Willingness to learn installation practices for electrical conduit (PVC, EMT, rigid) and instrumentation tubing under supervision.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in field documentation and testing procedures.
Demonstrated problem-solving ability and eagerness to learn through hands-on mentorship.
Effective communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with engineers, technicians, and other refinery personnel.
Understanding of and commitment to refinery safety practices and procedures.
Currently pursuing a degree or technical certification in Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation Technology, Industrial Maintenance, or a related field.
Basic understanding of electrical circuits, control systems, and instrumentation principles.
Strong interest in industrial automation, process control, and electrical maintenance.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook); familiarity with CMMS or PLC software is a plus.
Excellent attention to detail, safety awareness, and teamwork skills.
Strong communication and problem-solving abilities.
Willingness to work in field environments and learn through hands-on experience.

Responsibilities

Assist with routine maintenance, installation, and troubleshooting of instrumentation and electrical systems under direct supervision.
Support field fault analysis to help determine whether issues are process-related or due to equipment malfunction.
Learn to perform basic calibration and testing of transmitters, controllers, and other instrumentation using proper test equipment.
Observe and assist with electrical circuit troubleshooting, including motor control circuits, relay logic, and lighting systems.
Assist with installation and maintenance of electrical conduit, wiring, and instrumentation tubing.
Participate in equipment overhauls in a shop setting, including component replacement and alignment activities.
Support documentation of work activities, calibrations, and maintenance data in the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).
Assist in maintaining compliance with refinery safety procedures and electrical standards.
Participate in team meetings, toolbox talks, and hands-on training to develop technical and safety knowledge.
Perform other related duties as assigned to gain exposure to refinery electrical and instrumentation maintenance practices.