Searching for the right construction engineering internship can be a daunting task. With thousands of construction engineering interns in the United States alone, it’s clear that competition is fierce.
This guide aims to break down your options and highlight key sectors that offer exciting and diverse opportunities for budding engineers.
There are currently over 65,000 construction engineering interns employed in the United States, with over 20% women. Construction internships are great for individuals looking to gain practical experience in the field, and provide hands-on insights into construction and its relevant works.
Keep reading to kickstart your career with valuable field experience!
Key Takeaways
- Popular job titles for construction engineering internships include project engineer, field engineer, civil engineer, engineering intern, and construction operations intern.
- Common industries for construction engineering internships are civil engineering, infrastructure, manufacturing & production, and project management.
- Available internship positions in construction engineering include Construction Project Engineer, Highway Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and VDC Engineer.
- Internships can vary in duration with options like summer, spring or fall internships.
Popular Job Titles for Construction Engineering Internships
Popular job titles for construction engineering internships include project engineer, field engineer, civil engineer, engineering intern, and construction operations intern.
Project Engineer
As a project engineer intern, you will learn about many things. You may do some math for the job or help make important papers. Your role is to find and fix problems. This helps the job move forward without any hold ups.
Think of it as a sneak peek into your future work life in engineering!
Field Engineer
A Field Engineer plays a key role in construction projects. These engineers spend most of their time at job sites, focusing on the tasks at hand. They solve problems and make important decisions.
As a field engineer intern, you can learn all these skills. You get to watch and work with experienced field engineers.
This is an opening for you to grow your problem-solving abilities. It isn’t easy, but it can give you strong experience in the field. Many field engineer interns later go on to play crucial roles in big projects across cities like Houston and Nashville! So be ready to put on your hard hat and dive into real-world engineering work as a Field Engineer Intern!
Civil Engineer
A Civil Engineer intern helps in making plan designs. They work on tasks like doing math for plans and fixing problems. There are many jobs for civil engineer interns right now in the United States.
Over 65,803 students have this job. Some of them are women, about 24%. This job helps you learn how to do real construction work. It is good for your resume if you want a full-time engineer job later.
You don’t need past experience to get this internship.
Engineering Intern
An engineering internship is a great way for students to gain valuable experience and develop important skills. As an engineering intern, you will have the opportunity to work alongside experienced engineers and assist them in various tasks.
This may include calculations, preparing technical documents, and problem-solving. Internships in civil and environmental engineering are available in different companies and organizations.
It doesn’t matter if you don’t have prior experience because it is possible to secure an engineering internship even as a beginner. Consider applying for internships in construction management or other engineering fields that interest you.
Construction Operations Intern
As a construction operations intern, you will be part of a team responsible for managing and coordinating construction projects. Your main role will be to support the project managers and engineers in their daily tasks.
This could include assisting with project scheduling, budgeting, and documentation. You may also have the opportunity to visit job sites and observe construction activities firsthand.
By working as a construction operations intern, you will gain valuable experience in project management and learn about the various aspects of the construction industry. It’s an excellent opportunity to apply your knowledge, develop new skills, and make connections in the field of construction engineering.
Common Industries for Construction Engineering Internships
Common industries for construction engineering internships include civil engineering, infrastructure, manufacturing & production, and project management.
Civil Engineering
Civil engineering internships are a great opportunity for students interested in construction and infrastructure projects. These internships provide hands-on experience in the field of civil engineering, allowing you to apply your classroom knowledge to real-world situations.
You will get the chance to assist experienced engineers with tasks such as designing structures, conducting site visits, and analyzing data. Civil engineering internships also help you develop crucial skills like problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.
They can be a stepping stone towards a successful career in civil engineering and provide valuable industry experience that enhances your resume.
Infrastructure
Internships in construction engineering also offer opportunities to work on infrastructure projects. Infrastructure refers to the essential facilities and structures needed for a society or organization to function properly.
This can include things like roads, bridges, tunnels, airports, water supply systems, and telecommunications networks. By participating in an infrastructure internship, you can gain practical experience in designing and building these critical structures that support our daily lives.
It’s a chance to contribute to important projects that improve communities and enhance their overall quality of life while developing your skills in construction engineering.
Manufacturing & Production
Construction engineering internships in the field of manufacturing and production provide students with hands-on experience in various industries. As an intern, you may have the opportunity to work on projects related to building materials, equipment installation, quality control, or process improvement.
This type of internship allows you to learn about efficient production methods, safety protocols, and industry regulations. It is a valuable chance for you to develop technical skills while working alongside experienced professionals.
With over 65,803 civil engineering interns currently employed in the United States, there are ample opportunities for you to gain practical experience in manufacturing and production during your internship.
Project Management
Project management is an important aspect of construction engineering internships. As a project manager, you will be responsible for overseeing and coordinating various tasks to ensure that projects are completed successfully.
This includes planning, organizing, and controlling the resources and activities involved in a project. You will work closely with teams and stakeholders to set goals, create schedules, manage budgets, and monitor progress.
Effective communication skills are crucial as you will need to collaborate with engineers, contractors, clients, and other professionals throughout the project. By gaining experience in project management during your internship, you can develop valuable skills that will benefit you in your future career as a construction engineer.
[FACTS for Project Management]:
– Construction engineering interns often gain experience in project management.
– Project managers oversee all aspects of a construction project.
Available Internship Positions
Some available internship positions in construction engineering include Construction Project Engineer, Highway Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and VDC Engineer. Read on to learn more about these opportunities.
Construction Project Engineer
As a construction project engineer, you will play an important role in managing construction projects. You will work closely with the project manager and other team members to ensure that everything runs smoothly.
Your responsibilities may include creating project schedules, coordinating subcontractors, overseeing quality control, and monitoring budgets. Construction project engineering internships provide valuable hands-on experience in the field and can help you develop skills such as problem-solving and effective communication.
This internship can be a great opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in construction or civil engineering.
Highway Engineering
Highway engineering internships provide students with the opportunity to work on projects related to roads and transportation systems. As a highway engineering intern, you will be involved in tasks such as designing highways, conducting traffic studies, and analyzing data for road improvement projects.
These internships are valuable for students interested in civil engineering or transportation planning careers. You can gain practical experience in surveying, drafting, and using computer-aided design (CAD) software.
Additionally, highway engineering internships allow you to collaborate with professionals in the field and learn about important factors like safety regulations and environmental considerations.
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering internships provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a practical setting. As a mechanical engineering intern, you will have the chance to work on various projects, such as designing and building machines or analyzing data.
These internships can help you gain valuable experience in areas such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science.
There are numerous industries where mechanical engineers are in demand, including automotive manufacturing, aerospace, energy production, and robotics. By participating in a mechanical engineering internship, you can explore different sectors and determine which field aligns with your interests and goals.
During your internship, you may be involved in tasks like conducting experiments, creating prototypes, or assisting senior engineers with research projects. This hands-on experience will enhance your problem-solving abilities and improve your technical skills.
VDC Engineer
A VDC Engineer, or Virtual Design and Construction Engineer, plays a crucial role in the construction industry. As a VDC Engineer intern, you’ll use technology to create and manage digital models of buildings and infrastructure projects.
This helps with coordination and collaboration between different teams involved in the project. You’ll work closely with architects, engineers, and other professionals to ensure that the virtual model accurately represents the physical construction plan.
By analyzing data from these models, you can identify potential issues or conflicts before construction begins. This internship will allow you to develop skills in 3D modeling software, data analysis, and project coordination – all valuable skills for a future career in construction engineering.
Duration of Internships
Internships in construction engineering can vary in duration, with the most common options being summer, spring, or fall internships.
Summer
During the summer, there are plenty of construction engineering internships available for students like you. These internships can range from project engineer positions to construction operations interns.
They provide an opportunity for you to gain hands-on experience and learn about different aspects of the construction industry. Whether it’s working on highway engineering projects or gaining experience in mechanical engineering, summer internships offer valuable insights and skill development opportunities.
Additionally, these internships are a great way to enhance your resume and stand out in the competitive job market. So if you’re interested in pursuing a career in construction engineering, consider applying for summer internships to get started on your path to success!
Spring
During the spring season, there are numerous construction engineering internships available for students. Many companies and organizations offer intern positions in various fields, including civil engineering and project management.
These internships provide valuable hands-on experience and an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to real-life projects. Spring internships typically last for a few months, allowing students to gain practical skills while still having time off during their summer break.
It’s important to note that even if you don’t have prior experience, you can still secure an engineering internship in the spring. So be sure to start searching early, update your resume, and showcase your passion for construction engineering to increase your chances of landing a great internship opportunity.
Fall
Fall is a great time to pursue construction engineering internships. During the fall, many companies offer internship positions for students interested in gaining practical experience in construction and civil engineering.
These internships provide valuable learning opportunities and skill development in areas such as project management, engineering design, and problem-solving. You can expect to assist engineers with calculations, technical document preparation, and other tasks related to construction projects.
Fall internships are available in various industries, including civil engineering, infrastructure development, manufacturing & production, and project management. By participating in a fall internship, you can enhance your resume, gain industry experience, and increase your chances of securing future job opportunities.
Desired Skills & Qualifications
To excel in construction engineering internships, you’ll need knowledge of construction processes, proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD), and strong communication and problem-solving abilities.
Knowledge of construction processes
To succeed in construction engineering internships, it’s essential to have knowledge of construction processes. This means understanding how buildings and infrastructure are constructed from start to finish.
You should be familiar with concepts like site preparation, foundation systems, structural components, electrical and plumbing systems, and finishing work. Knowing these processes will help you contribute effectively to projects and understand the industry language used by professionals.
Additionally, having this knowledge shows employers that you have a solid foundation in construction engineering principles and are ready to apply them in real-world scenarios.
Computer-aided design (CAD) proficiency
To be successful in a construction engineering internship, it’s important to have proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD). CAD is a software that helps engineers create detailed drawings and models of structures.
It allows you to visualize how different elements fit together and make changes easily. Being proficient in CAD means you can use this software effectively and efficiently. This skill will help you contribute to projects by creating accurate designs, making revisions as needed, and collaborating with other team members.
Having CAD proficiency will set you apart from other interns and show employers that you have the technical skills they are looking for.
Strong communication and problem-solving abilities
Having strong communication skills and the ability to solve problems are essential for success in construction engineering internships. Effective communication is crucial when working with team members, contractors, and clients to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
It involves expressing ideas clearly, listening actively, and asking questions when needed. Problem-solving abilities allow you to analyze issues that may arise during a project and come up with creative solutions.
This skill helps you overcome obstacles efficiently and contribute positively to the overall success of the internship experience. With over 65,803 civil engineering interns currently employed in the United States, developing these skills will set you apart from your peers and make you a valuable asset in any construction engineering internship position.
Top Locations for Construction Engineering Internships
Houston, TX, Atlanta, GA, Nashville, TN, Kansas City, MO, and Trenton, NJ are some of the top locations for construction engineering internships in the United States.
Houston, TX
In Houston, Texas, there are plenty of construction engineering internships available for students like you. Houston is known for its booming construction industry and offers a variety of internship positions in civil engineering, infrastructure, and project management.
Some popular companies in Houston that offer construction engineering internships include WSP and other local firms. These internships provide valuable hands-on experience and the opportunity to work on real-life projects.
Whether you’re interested in highways, mechanical engineering, or virtual design and construction (VDC), Houston has opportunities for you to explore your interests and gain practical skills.
Atlanta, GA
Atlanta, GA is a great location for construction engineering internships. There are many opportunities in this city to gain hands-on experience and learn from professionals in the field.
You can find internships in various industries such as civil engineering, infrastructure, manufacturing & production, and project management. One of the benefits of interning in Atlanta is that it is home to several well-known companies that offer construction engineering internships.
These internships provide valuable learning experiences where you can apply your knowledge and skills in real-world projects. Additionally, Atlanta has a thriving construction industry with numerous ongoing projects, making it an ideal place to gain practical experience and network with industry professionals.
[Relevant Fact]: Approximately 24.2% of all civil engineering interns are women.
Nashville, TN
Nashville, TN is a great location to consider for construction engineering internships. This vibrant city in Tennessee offers numerous opportunities for students interested in gaining hands-on experience in the field.
With its growing construction industry and bustling infrastructure projects, Nashville provides a dynamic environment for interns to learn from professionals and contribute to real-world projects.
Whether you’re interested in project engineering, civil engineering, or other areas of construction, Nashville has internship positions available that can help you develop your skills and build your resume.
Kansas City, MO
In Kansas City, MO, there are several construction engineering internship opportunities available for students. You can find internships in fields like project engineering, civil engineering, and construction operations.
These internships will allow you to gain hands-on experience in areas such as infrastructure and manufacturing. Some popular companies offering construction engineering internships in Kansas City include those specializing in highway engineering and mechanical engineering.
The duration of these internships varies, with options available for the summer, spring, or fall semesters. By participating in a construction engineering internship in Kansas City, you can develop valuable skills like knowledge of construction processes and computer-aided design proficiency while also enhancing your resume for future job opportunities.
Trenton, NJ
Trenton, NJ is a great location to find construction engineering internships. In this area, you can gain valuable industry experience and enhance your skills. With its vibrant construction industry and numerous infrastructure projects, there are opportunities to work as project engineers, field engineers, or civil engineers.
Trenton offers internships in various industries such as civil engineering, infrastructure, manufacturing & production, and project management. These internships will allow you to learn about construction processes and develop proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD).
Trenton provides a dynamic environment for students looking to kickstart their careers in construction engineering.
Average Pay for Construction Engineering Internships
The average pay for construction engineering internships varies depending on the location and company.
Varies by location and company
The average pay for construction engineering internships can vary depending on where you are located and the company you work for. Different regions and companies may offer different compensation packages, so it’s important to do your research.
Keep in mind that factors like cost of living and demand for interns in a particular area can also impact the pay rate. Remember to consider other benefits like valuable industry experience and skill development when evaluating internship opportunities.
How to Apply for Construction Engineering Internships
To apply for construction engineering internships, follow these steps:
- Research companies and organizations: Look for companies and organizations that offer construction engineering internships. Check their websites or reach out to their HR departments for information on available positions.
- Update your resume: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant coursework, skills, and any previous experience in the field. Include any certifications or software proficiency that may be valuable in construction engineering.
- Write a cover letter: Craft a well-written cover letter that explains why you are interested in the internship and how your skills align with the company’s requirements. Mention any specific projects or coursework that demonstrate your knowledge of construction engineering.
- Apply online: Most companies have an online application process. Fill out the necessary forms, upload your resume and cover letter, and submit your application before the deadline.
- Network: Attend career fairs, industry events, or connect with professionals in the field to expand your network. Networking can help you learn about upcoming opportunities or get referrals for internships.
- Follow up: After submitting your application, follow up with an email expressing your continued interest in the internship position. This shows determination and keeps you on their radar.
- Prepare for interviews: If you’re selected for an interview, research the company thoroughly and prepare answers to common interview questions specific to construction engineering internships.
- Showcase enthusiasm and willingness to learn: During interviews, emphasize your eagerness to learn and contribute as an intern in the construction engineering field.
- Stay persistent: If you don’t hear back from a company initially, don’t get discouraged. Keep applying to other opportunities while continuing to improve your skills and knowledge in construction engineering.
Conclusion
In conclusion, construction engineering internships offer a wide range of job titles and industries to explore. Whether you’re interested in project engineering, civil engineering, or even construction operations, there are opportunities available for you.
These internships can provide valuable experience, skills development, and networking opportunities that can set you up for success in your future career as a construction engineer.
So don’t hesitate to apply and take advantage of these exciting internship positions!
FAQs
1. What is a construction engineering internship?
A construction engineering internship is an opportunity for students or recent graduates to gain practical work experience in the field of construction engineering.
2. How do I find available construction engineering internships?
You can find available construction engineering internships by searching online job boards, contacting university career centers, attending job fairs, and networking with professionals in the industry.
3. What qualifications do I need for a construction engineering internship?
Qualifications for a construction engineering internship may vary depending on the company and position, but typically require enrollment in an accredited civil or construction engineering program.
4. Are there paid construction engineering internships?
Yes, some companies offer paid construction engineering internships that provide monetary compensation for your work during the internship period.
5. How long do construction engineering internships last?
The duration of construction engineering internships can vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on the company’s requirements and the availability of projects.