What Structural Engineering Internships Are Available?


Architectural blueprints and drafting tools surrounded by engineering drawings in a well-lit and bustling atmosphere.

Considering a career in structural engineering? With over 156 intern opportunities available just in Texas, it’s an industry ripe with potential. This article will guide you through the variety of internships that exist within this field and what they entail.

There are thousands of structural engineering intern jobs available across the U.S. Structural engineer internships are available for summer hire, while co-op positions are offered year-round based on semesters. Internships provide valuable experience and skills for aspiring engineers.

Ready to build your future? Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

  • There are different types of structural engineering internships available, such as infrastructure engineer internships, data analysis internships, tire engineering/manufacturing internships, bridge/structural engineering internships, civil/transmission line engineering internships, project engineer internships, chassis mechanical systems internships, and building/construction internships.
  • To be eligible for these internships, you typically need a strong educational background in civil or structural engineering and technical and computer skills. Knowledge of industry standards and design software is also important.
  • Completing a structural engineering internship offers hands – on experience working on real projects, networking opportunities with professionals in the field, and improved job prospects in the industry.

Types of Structural Engineering Internships

The photo depicts an engineering blueprint with tools and a hardhat on a construction site.

There are several types of structural engineering internships available, including infrastructure engineer internships, data analysis internships, tire engineering/manufacturing internships, bridge/structural engineering internships, civil/transmission line engineering internships, project engineer internships, chassis mechanical systems internships, and building/construction internships.

Infrastructure Engineer Internship

You can work on big projects in an Infrastructure Engineer Internship. You will join a team of engineers. They are working on roads, bridges, and other public works tasks. This job lets you help with site visits too.

You get to see foundations up close and do math for the project costs. It’s great for learning new things. Plus, it helps you build skills in problem-solving and talking with people.

Your school lessons become real when you use them at your internship! Some jobs might even last all year long, not just the summer! This is a good pick if you want to learn lots about building strong structures that many people use every day.

Data Analysis Internship

In a Data Analysis Internship, you can learn about the role of data in making good roads and bridges. You get to see how numbers help shape our world. The job asks for math smarts and computer skills.

It is your task to study lots of information and find patterns.

Being an intern at this job helps make you ready to be a full-time engineer one day. You take on real work like checking out site details or doing cost counts for materials. This hands-on learning makes your school lessons come alive!

Tire Engineering/Manufacturing Internship

You can learn a lot from a Tire Engineering/Manufacturing Internship. It lets you see how car tires are made and test your engineering skills. You will work with the team that builds the tires.

They will teach you ways to make good, safe car tires. Each tire must be perfect! With this type of internship, many doors can open for your career in structural engineering later on.

Bridge/Structural Engineering Internship

A bridge/structural engineering internship is a great opportunity for students interested in working on bridge and other structural projects. As an intern, you will support the engineering team by helping with calculations, inspections, and material costing.

You might even get to go on site visits to see the projects up close. This internship will allow you to apply your technical skills and gain hands-on experience in the field of civil engineering.

There are plenty of opportunities available across the United States, including in Texas where there are currently 156 open intern positions. So if you’re interested in bridges and structures, consider applying for a bridge/structural engineering internship to kickstart your career as a civil engineer!

Civil/Transmission Line Engineering Internship

Civil/Transmission Line Engineering internships offer students the opportunity to work on projects related to infrastructure and power transmission. As an intern, you will support the engineering team in tasks such as conducting site visits, inspecting foundations, and calculating material costs.

These internships provide valuable hands-on experience in civil engineering and allow you to develop technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork. Companies like Kiewit Corporation and General Electric (GE) offer civil/transmission line engineering internships that can enhance your job prospects in the field.

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in civil engineering or transmission line design, these internships are a great way to gain practical knowledge and make connections in the industry.”.

Project Engineer Internship

A project engineer internship is a great opportunity for students interested in gaining practical experience in the field of structural engineering. As a project engineer intern, you will work closely with experienced engineers to support various construction and infrastructure projects.

Your responsibilities may include assisting with project planning, conducting site visits to inspect foundations and structures, and helping with calculations for dimensions and material costing.

This internship will allow you to apply your technical knowledge to real-world scenarios, develop problem-solving skills, and gain valuable insights into the industry. Keep in mind that project engineer internships are typically available during the summer but some companies offer co-op positions throughout the year based on semesters.

Chassis Mechanical Systems Internship

A chassis mechanical systems internship is a great opportunity for students interested in automotive engineering. In this role, you will work with the engineering team to design and develop various components of a vehicle’s chassis system.

You may be involved in tasks such as creating 3D models, conducting simulations, and performing tests to ensure the performance and durability of the chassis system. This internship will allow you to gain hands-on experience in the field and learn about the latest advancements in automotive technology.

With companies like General Electric (GE) and Boeing offering internships in this area, there are plenty of opportunities to kick-start your career as an automotive engineer.

Building/Construction Internship

Building/construction internships provide valuable hands-on experience in the field of structural engineering. As an intern, you will have the opportunity to work on real construction projects and learn from experienced professionals.

You may assist engineers with tasks such as inspecting construction sites, analyzing blueprints, and ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations. This internship will help you develop technical skills related to construction materials, project management, and cost estimation.

It will also give you a chance to network with industry experts and potentially secure future job opportunities. Building/construction internships are available at top companies such as Kiewit Corporation, General Electric (GE), Boeing, Georgia-Pacific, and Janney Technical Center.

Requirements for Structural Engineering Internships

A blueprint of a building under construction with drafting tools and a computer.

To be eligible for structural engineering internships, you typically need a strong educational background in civil or structural engineering, as well as technical and computer skills.

Additionally, knowledge of industry standards and design software is essential, along with excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

Education background

To qualify for a structural engineering internship, it’s important to have a strong education background. Typically, you will need to be enrolled in an accredited civil or structural engineering program at a college or university.

Courses in mathematics, physics, and computer science are also beneficial. Some internships may require specific coursework in structural analysis and design. It’s important to maintain good academic standing and demonstrate your commitment to learning and understanding the principles of structural engineering.

Having a solid educational foundation is essential because it helps employers gauge your knowledge and potential for growth in the field of structural engineering. The courses you take during your studies provide you with the necessary technical skills to understand complex structures and analyze their behavior under different loads.

Additionally, these courses help you develop problem-solving skills that are crucial for addressing challenges encountered on construction projects.

Technical and computer skills

To excel in a structural engineering internship, you’ll need to have good technical and computer skills. This means having a strong understanding of math and science, as well as being able to use software programs like AutoCAD and Revit for designing structures.

You should also be familiar with analysis tools such as SAP2000 or ETABS for evaluating the structural integrity of buildings. Additionally, knowledge of programming languages like Python or MATLAB can be advantageous for performing data analysis or creating simulations.

Having these technical and computer skills will help you tackle real-world engineering problems effectively during your internship.

Knowledge of industry standards and design software

To be successful in a structural engineering internship, it’s important to have knowledge of industry standards and design software. This includes being familiar with the codes and regulations that govern the field of structural engineering.

You should also have experience using design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, or SAP2000. Knowing how to navigate these programs will allow you to create accurate designs and models.

Additionally, having a strong understanding of industry standards will ensure that your work meets the necessary safety and quality requirements. With this knowledge, you’ll be able to contribute effectively to construction and structural projects during your internship.

Strong communication and teamwork skills

To succeed in a structural engineering internship, strong communication and teamwork skills are essential. You’ll be working closely with engineers and other team members, so it’s important to effectively communicate your ideas and collaborate well with others.

Clear communication helps ensure that everyone is on the same page and understands their roles and responsibilities. Additionally, being a team player allows you to contribute to group projects, share knowledge, and problem-solve together.

Employers value these skills because they lead to efficient project completion and a positive work environment. In fact, many companies prioritize candidates who demonstrate excellent communication and teamwork abilities during the hiring process for internships in civil engineering or other engineering disciplines (such as mechanical or electrical engineering).

Benefits of Completing a Structural Engineering Internship

Completing a structural engineering internship offers hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and improved job prospects. Don’t miss out on the valuable benefits that come with gaining real-world industry exposure.

Hands-on experience

During a structural engineering internship, you will gain valuable hands-on experience by working directly with engineers on construction and structural projects. This means that you will get to visit project sites to inspect foundations and calculate dimensions and material costs.

This practical experience will give you a better understanding of how the concepts you learn in school are applied in real-world situations. It will also help you develop important technical skills, such as using industry-standard design software, as well as interpersonal skills like communication and teamwork.

By getting hands-on experience through an internship, you’ll be better prepared for future job opportunities in the field of structural engineering.

Networking opportunities

You’ll also have the chance to network with professionals in the structural engineering field during your internship. This can be incredibly valuable for your future career. By connecting with experienced engineers, you can gain insights and advice that will help you grow as a professional.

Networking events and industry conferences are great opportunities to meet people who may offer mentorship or even job prospects down the line. Building relationships through networking can open doors and expand your professional network, which is essential in today’s competitive job market.

Improved job prospects

Completing a structural engineering internship can greatly improve your job prospects. By gaining hands-on experience in the field, you’ll develop valuable skills and knowledge that employers are looking for.

Networking opportunities during your internship can also help you connect with professionals in the industry who may be able to recommend you for future job openings. With a structural engineering internship on your resume, potential employers will see that you have practical experience and a strong foundation in the field, making you a more competitive candidate for entry-level positions.

So take advantage of these internships to boost your career opportunities!

Top Companies Offering Structural Engineering Internships

Some of the top companies offering structural engineering internships include Kiewit Corporation, General Electric (GE), Boeing, Georgia-Pacific, and Janney Technical Center.

Kiewit Corporation

Kiewit Corporation is one of the top companies offering structural engineering internships. As an intern at Kiewit, you will have the opportunity to work on a wide range of construction and infrastructure projects.

You will gain hands-on experience by assisting engineers with design, calculations, and site visits. Kiewit’s internships provide valuable networking opportunities and can improve your job prospects in the industry.

General Electric (GE)

General Electric (GE) is a top company that offers structural engineering internships. As an intern at GE, you will have the opportunity to work with experienced engineers on various projects.

You can gain hands-on experience and develop your technical skills in areas like infrastructure and bridge engineering. GE also provides networking opportunities, which can help you build connections in the industry.

Completing an internship at GE can improve your job prospects and give you valuable experience for your future career as a structural engineer.

Boeing

Boeing is a top company that offers structural engineering internships. As an intern at Boeing, you will get the chance to work on exciting projects related to aircraft and aerospace structures.

You will collaborate with experienced engineers and gain valuable hands-on experience in designing and analyzing various components of aircraft. Boeing values teamwork, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.

By interning at Boeing, you can improve your job prospects in the aerospace industry while making important connections with professionals in the field.

Georgia-Pacific

Georgia-Pacific is a company that offers various structural engineering internships. As an intern at Georgia-Pacific, you will have the opportunity to work on exciting construction and structural projects alongside experienced engineers.

You will gain hands-on experience by joining engineers on site visits, where you will inspect site foundations and help calculate dimensions and material costs. This internship will allow you to develop important technical skills in civil engineering while also improving your problem-solving abilities.

Additionally, Georgia-Pacific provides a supportive learning environment where you can network with professionals in the industry and enhance your job prospects for the future. With Georgia-Pacific’s internship program, you can gain valuable experience while working towards your career goals in structural engineering.

Janney Technical Center

Janney Technical Center is a top company that offers structural engineering internships. They provide opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience and develop their skills in the field of structural engineering.

At Janney Technical Center, interns have the chance to work on various construction and structural projects, supporting the engineering team in tasks such as site visits, inspecting foundations, and calculating dimensions and material costing.

This internship will not only give you valuable practical experience but also allow you to network with professionals in the industry, improving your job prospects for the future.

How to Apply for a Structural Engineering Internship

To apply for a Structural Engineering Internship, you can start by networking with professionals in the field, searching for internships online on job search platforms like Indeed.com, attending career fairs, and following the application process outlined by each company.

Networking

Networking is an important aspect of finding a structural engineering internship. By networking, you can connect with professionals in the field who may have information about available internships.

You can attend career fairs and industry events to meet potential employers and make valuable connections. Additionally, joining professional organizations or online forums related to structural engineering can provide opportunities to network with other professionals in the industry.

Building your professional network can help you stay informed about internship opportunities and increase your chances of securing an internship in structural engineering.

Online job search

To find structural engineering internships, one effective method is conducting an online job search. Websites like Indeed.com offer a wide range of intern job opportunities in the United States.

By using specific keywords such as “structural engineer intern” or “engineering internships,” you can narrow down your search and find relevant employment opportunities. It’s important to create a professional network on platforms like LinkedIn, where you can connect with professionals in the field and discover more internship options.

Additionally, career fairs and company websites are also great resources to explore when looking for structural engineering internships. In Texas alone, there are currently 156 available jobs for interns in this field.

Career fairs

To find structural engineering internships, attending career fairs can be a great option for students. At career fairs, you have the opportunity to meet representatives from different companies and learn about their internship programs.

You can ask questions, network with professionals in the field, and even submit your resume directly to recruiters. Career fairs offer a convenient way to explore various internship options all in one place.

Plus, many companies actively recruit interns at these events, increasing your chances of securing an internship. So don’t forget to research upcoming career fairs in your area and make sure to attend!

Application process

To apply for a structural engineering internship, there are a few steps you can follow. First, start networking and make connections in the industry. Attend career fairs or join professional organizations to meet people who can help you find internships.

Next, search online job platforms like Indeed.com for available positions. You can also directly visit the websites of companies offering internships to see if they have any openings.

When applying, make sure to prepare a well-written resume that highlights your relevant skills and experiences. Finally, submit your application and wait for a response from the company.

Tips for a Successful Structural Engineering Internship

Set clear goals, communicate regularly with supervisors and colleagues, seek feedback, and take advantage of learning opportunities to make the most out of your structural engineering internship.

Start your career on the right foot by following these tips!

Set clear goals and objectives

To have a successful structural engineering internship, it’s important to set clear goals and objectives for yourself. This means knowing what you want to achieve during your time as an intern.

Maybe you want to learn specific technical skills or gain experience working on real construction projects. Setting goals will give you direction and motivation throughout your internship.

For example, if you’re interning at a construction company, your goal might be to learn about cost reduction strategies or how to manage building design projects efficiently. If you’re interning at an engineering firm, your goal might be to improve your problem-solving skills by working on complex structural analysis tasks.

By setting clear goals and objectives, you can focus your efforts and make the most of your internship experience. It will also help guide conversations with supervisors and colleagues about the type of work you’d like to be involved in.

Communicate regularly with supervisors and colleagues

Regular communication with supervisors and colleagues is essential during a structural engineering internship. By keeping in touch, you can stay updated on project progress, ask for guidance when needed, and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

It also helps to establish a good working relationship and build rapport with your team. Through effective communication, you can clarify expectations, share ideas, and address any concerns that may arise.

This open line of communication will contribute to a successful internship experience and showcase your professionalism as an intern.

Seek feedback and ask questions

During your structural engineering internship, it’s important to seek feedback and ask questions. This will help you learn and grow in your role. When you receive feedback from your supervisors or colleagues, take it as an opportunity to improve and make adjustments.

Asking questions shows that you are eager to learn and understand the tasks assigned to you. Additionally, seeking clarification ensures that you are on the right track and helps prevent mistakes.

Remember, internships are a learning experience, so don’t hesitate to seek guidance when needed. By actively seeking feedback and asking questions, you can make the most of your internship and gain valuable knowledge in the field of structural engineering.

Take advantage of learning opportunities

During your structural engineering internship, make sure to take advantage of the learning opportunities available to you. This is your chance to gain hands-on experience and learn from experienced professionals in the field.

Join engineers on site visits and inspections, where you can observe and participate in calculations for dimensions and material costing. Use this time to ask questions, seek feedback, and expand your knowledge of industry standards and design software.

By actively engaging with these learning opportunities, you’ll enhance your skills and increase your value as a future engineer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are various types of structural engineering internships available for students. These internships provide hands-on experience and networking opportunities, improving job prospects in the field.

By completing a structural engineering internship, you can gain valuable skills and knowledge that will set you up for success in your career as an engineer.

FAQs

1. What is a structural engineering internship?

A structural engineering internship is an opportunity for students or recent graduates to work in the field of structural engineering and gain practical experience under the guidance of professionals.

2. How long do structural engineering internships typically last?

The duration of a structural engineering internship can vary, but most internships last between 8-12 weeks during the summer months.

3. What kind of tasks will I be assigned during a structural engineering internship?

During a structural engineering internship, you may be involved in tasks such as drafting plans, conducting calculations, assisting with site inspections, and supporting engineers with various projects.

4. Are there any prerequisites for applying to a structural engineering internship?

While requirements may vary depending on the organization offering the internship, it is common for applicants to have completed relevant coursework in civil or structural engineering.

5. Where can I find opportunities for structural engineering internships?

Opportunities for structural engineering internships can be found through online job portals, career fairs at universities, professional networking events, and by contacting local firms or organizations specializing in civil or structural engineering.

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