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Civil Engineering Internships Jobs in California

Civil Engineer Intern

Concord, CA · On-site

$25 - $29/hr

The Civil Engineer Intern will support civil engineering teams in the planning, design, analysis ... Interns will be paired with experienced engineering and science staff who will provide training on ...

Civil Design Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site +1

$100K - $125K/yr

S. in Civil Engineering * EIT Certificate required * Minimum 6 years of experience in municipal and subdivision infrastructure design & mapping (internship experience qualifies) * AutoCAD Civil3D ...

Civil Design Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site +1

$100K - $125K/yr

S. in Civil Engineering * EIT Certificate required * Minimum 6 years of experience in municipal and subdivision infrastructure design & mapping (internship experience qualifies) * AutoCAD Civil3D ...

Showing results 41-60

Civil Engineering Internships information

See California salary details

$37.5K

$81.6K

$121.4K

How much do civil engineering internships jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil engineering internships in California is $81,591.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,600.00 and $97,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a civil engineering internship?

Civil engineering internships are short-term work experiences that allow students or recent graduates to gain practical knowledge in the field of civil engineering. Interns typically assist with tasks such as drafting designs, conducting site visits, collecting data, and supporting project management efforts. These internships provide valuable hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and a better understanding of careers in civil engineering. They can also improve a student’s job prospects after graduation by building relevant skills and industry connections.

What types of projects can a civil engineering intern expect to work on, and how involved will they be in the process?

As a civil engineering intern, you can expect to participate in a variety of projects ranging from site inspections and surveying to assisting with drafting and design work using software like AutoCAD or Civil 3D. Interns are typically given hands-on tasks suited to their level, such as preparing reports, collecting data, or supporting project managers with day-to-day coordination. You'll often collaborate with engineers, architects, and construction teams, gaining exposure to both office and field work. This involvement helps you understand the full project lifecycle and develop practical skills valuable for a future career in civil engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a civil engineering intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Civil Engineering Intern, you generally need a foundational understanding of engineering principles, coursework in civil engineering, and progress toward a relevant degree. Familiarity with technical tools like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Microsoft Office, as well as basic knowledge of surveying equipment, is highly valued. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help interns collaborate effectively and adapt to project needs. These competencies ensure interns can contribute meaningfully to engineering projects, learn quickly, and support the success of the engineering team.

What is the difference between Civil Engineering Internships vs Civil Engineering Technician?

AspectCivil Engineering InternshipsCivil Engineering Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or related fieldAssociate degree or technical certification in civil engineering technology
Work EnvironmentOn-site project sites, engineering offices, labsConstruction sites, laboratories, engineering offices
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by engineering firms, government agencies, construction companiesEmployers hire technicians for project support, site inspections, and data collection
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level opportunities in civil engineeringLearning about technical roles supporting civil engineering projects

In summary, Civil Engineering Internships are typically for students gaining practical experience during their studies, focusing on learning and observation. Civil Engineering Technicians are trained professionals who support engineering projects through technical tasks, often requiring specific certifications. Both roles are essential in the civil engineering industry but differ mainly in experience level and responsibilities.

What do you do as a civil engineering intern?

A civil engineering intern assists with project planning, site inspections, and data collection. They may use tools like AutoCAD and learn about construction processes while gaining practical experience under supervision.

Which internship is best for civil engineering students?

The best civil engineering internship provides hands-on experience in areas such as structural design, construction management, or surveying, often through programs offered by engineering firms, government agencies, or construction companies. Interns typically gain skills in industry-standard tools like AutoCAD or Revit and may pursue relevant certifications or licenses during their internship. Selecting a program aligned with your career interests and offering mentorship opportunities enhances professional development.

What cities in California are hiring for Civil Engineering Internships jobs?

Cities in California with the most Civil Engineering Internships job openings:

Infographic showing various Civil Engineering Internships job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,591 per year, or $39.2 per hour.

$19.75 - $21.25/hr

Internship

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

The Position The City of Diamond Bar's Public Works Department is looking for a dynamic engineering student, to join its team of outstanding professionals, as a paid Intern. The City of Diamond Bar is a general law city incorporated on April 18, 1989. It is governed by the city council/city manager form of government.

A five-member city council is elected by the residents, and a mayor is elected annually by the council to serve a one-year term. The city manager is appointed by the council to oversee the daily activities of the City. The Public Works Department provides information on general engineering matters relating to City streets, public right-of-ways, City's capital projects, utilities, traffic related issues, grading, drainage, stormwater compliance and more.

The Department is responsible for the day-to-day maintenance of all publicly owned property within the public right-of-way, including streets, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, traffic signals, signs, streetlights, maintenance (public park & public building facilities) and sewers/storm drains. Examples of Essential Job Duties The assigned Intern will report to the Engineering Division and have the opportunity to work with all staff in the Public Works Department. The Diamond Bar Public Works Department is multi-faceted with numerous areas of responsibility ranging from roadways, utilities, traffic, grading, stormwater compliance, and overall public safety.

The Department is interested in hosting an intern to be exposed to all aspects of the municipal Public Works environment that they may not be able to experience in larger local agencies. The Intern assignment will take place at Diamond Bar City Hall, 21810 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, CA 91765. The selected Intern will have the opportunity to be exposed to a wide variety of engineering and maintenance related tasks in the Public Works Department.

The Civil Engineering Intern may be assigned to assist with the following tasks: Public Counter Coverage Dumpster Permits Overload/Oversize Permits Public Document Request retrieval Grading Plan Check Process Questions Encroachment Permits Administrative Assignments Encroachment Permit Bond Refunds Label and File Approved Plans Address Changes Service Requests/Field Visits for Drainage Concerns Quarterly Utility Billings Traffic Engineering Assignments Neighborhood Traffic Management Program (NTMP) Project assistance Traffic Control Encroachment permit processing Collision Report collection and analysis Assist with the preparation of variety of Request for Proposal (RFP) Land Development Coordination tasks with the City's on-call engineers/plan checkers Storage and File Organization and Codification Stormwater Compliance Services Inspection and issuance of letters for sites with violations of National Pollutant Discharged Elimination System (NPDES) Permit Track and Maintain Log of NPDES Violations Assist with annual reports to the Water Board Maintenance Division Perform basic field check duties with Maintenance staff, such as striping, asphalt and concrete flatwork conditions Assist with responses to requests and complaints Provide assistance in reviewing the engineering plans, specs, and as-built plans Qualification Guidelines Education: Currently enrolled college or university students that have attained Junior or Senior level status in the undergraduate Civil Engineering program, in addition to, Master of Civil Engineering students will be considered. Experience: None required The following skills, knowledge, and abilities are highly desirable for program participation: Ability to apply research techniques, survey methods, and data collection Excellent customer service skills Flexibility and ability to handle multiple priorities Excellent verbal and written communication skills Ability to foster effective working relationships with all levels of staff and the public Computer experience including Microsoft Office and/or design and drafting software Ability to work independently and in a team Being reliable and ability to meet deadlines & follow schedules Self-starter and a desire to learn and implement new skills and expertise Selection Process The successful candidate would be assigned a minimum of two to three working days during business hours, 7:30am - 5:30pm, Monday through Thursday and 7:30 - 4:30pm on Friday each week for a total of 18 hours/week. Some of the benefits to the Interns include: Build resumes/work history and explore career options Apply skills and knowledge acquired in an academic setting to the workplace Fulfill college/university internship requirements Network with professionals in their fields of interest Intern with one of the premier public employers in the region Flexible scheduling to allow for finals and changes in class schedule As scheduling permits, engage in employee events, such as holiday luncheon, city-wide meetings, Commission and Council meetings Meet with City Manager and other City Executives Candidates whose education, experience and/or training appear to be best qualified will be invited to participate in an Oral Interview: 100%.

The top candidate(s) will be required to successfully pass a criminal background check, verification of work experience, and submit an official copy of educational transcripts verifying obtained degrees or certificated as indicated on the employment application. The selected candidate will be required to successfully pass a City-paid medical examination after a conditional job offer is made.