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Caltrans Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Caltrans Internship information

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$8

$15

$21

How much do caltrans internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for caltrans internship in the United States is $15.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects do Caltrans interns typically work on, and how do these experiences contribute to their professional development?

Caltrans interns often participate in a variety of projects such as transportation planning, civil engineering design, environmental analysis, and public works maintenance. These assignments allow interns to collaborate closely with experienced engineers, planners, and project managers, gaining hands-on experience with both fieldwork and office tasks. Regular exposure to real-world transportation challenges helps interns build technical skills and professional networks, providing a strong foundation for future careers in civil service or the private sector. The internship also offers opportunities for mentorship and potential pathways to full-time employment within Caltrans.

What is a Caltrans internship?

A Caltrans internship is a structured work experience program offered by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to students and recent graduates interested in transportation, engineering, environmental science, and related fields. Interns work alongside professionals on real-world projects that improve California's transportation infrastructure. These positions help participants gain practical skills, network with industry experts, and explore potential career paths within Caltrans or the broader transportation sector. Internships may be paid or unpaid, and are available statewide.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Caltrans Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Caltrans Intern, you typically need to be enrolled in or recently graduated from a relevant college program such as civil engineering, environmental science, or transportation planning, with a solid grasp of basic technical concepts. Familiarity with software like AutoCAD, GIS, or Microsoft Office Suite, as well as understanding of state transportation policies, is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help interns collaborate effectively and adapt to dynamic project needs. These skills and qualifications are crucial for contributing to real-world transportation projects and gaining valuable hands-on experience in the public sector.

What is the difference between Caltrans Internship vs Civil Engineering Assistant?

AspectCaltrans InternshipCivil Engineering Assistant
Required CredentialsCurrently enrolled in or recent graduate of civil engineering or related programAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in civil engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentGovernment agency, fieldwork, office settingsEngineering firms, government agencies, field and office work
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by Caltrans for student training and recruitmentUsed by various agencies and firms for entry-level civil engineering support

The Caltrans Internship provides students with hands-on experience in transportation projects within a government setting, often serving as a pathway to full-time employment. Civil Engineering Assistants typically hold more advanced credentials and perform more independent engineering tasks. Both roles are valuable for gaining industry experience, but the internship is more focused on learning and exposure, while the assistant role involves more responsibility and technical work.

More about Caltrans Internship jobs
What cities are hiring for Caltrans Internship jobs? Cities with the most Caltrans Internship job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Caltrans jobs? The most popular types of Caltrans jobs are:
What states have the most Caltrans Internship jobs? States with the most job openings for Caltrans Internship jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Caltrans Internship jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Caltrans Internship jobs are:
Caltrans Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Caltrans Internship job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,333 per year, or $15.5 per hour.
Intern - Engineering

Intern - Engineering

Transportation Corridor Agencies

Irvine, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Pa­id Internship Opportunity - Engineering Internship

TCA is accepting applications from upper division undergraduate and/or graduate students for a paid internship in our Engineering Department. If you want to apply your education, knowledge and abilities in the workplace, see below for details

About Us

The Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) is a public agency responsible for planning, financing, constructing and operating California’s largest toll road network. The 51-mile public toll road network, which includes State Routes 73, 133, 241 and 261, are owned by Caltrans, financed with private funds, and built with virtually no tax dollars. TCA uses innovative approaches to provide regional mobility solutions that decrease congestion and improve quality of life.

Examples of Duties/Types of Projects

  • Assist engineering staff with design, construction, and capital improvement projects
  • Support project management activities, including tracking schedules, budgets, and deliverables
  • Review, organize, and maintain engineering plans, technical documents, and project records
  • Assist with preparation of reports, presentations, and technical memoranda
  • Participate in engineering coordination meetings, site visits, and inspections as appropriate
  • Conduct basic engineering research and data analysis under staff direction
  • Support coordination with consultants, contractors, and internal departments

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Basic understanding of engineering principles, preferably in civil, transportation, or construction engineering
  • Strong organizational and analytical skills
  • Ability to read and understand technical drawings and documents (preferred)
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, SharePoint, and PowerPoint)
  • Familiarity with engineering or design software (e.g., AutoCAD, GIS, or similar) is a plus
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
  • Detail-oriented, reliable, and eager to learn
  • Ability to perform entry-level professional engineering-related work

Education and Experience Required

Must be a junior or senior undergraduate student or graduate student attending an accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 2.5, majoring in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Transportation Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a closely related discipline.

No prior professional experience is required.

Working Conditions

Duties are generally performed in an office environment, with potential field exposure at construction sites or transportation facilities. Typical physical activity is light, with occasional moderate lifting (not to exceed 20 pounds). Approximately 20 hours per week.

Pay

Undergraduate interns are eligible for an hourly pay rate of $18.50. Graduate interns are eligible for an hourly pay rate of $22.00,

How to Apply

Submit your resume by May 17, 2026 for first consideration.


It is the policy of TCA to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, creed, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, TCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Apply