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Civil Engineering Internships Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Provides small scale design elements for engineering projects using fundamental knowledge, standard ... Mentors student interns by providing opportunities for developing basic technical skills and ...

Provides small scale design elements for engineering projects using fundamental knowledge, standard ... Mentors student interns by providing opportunities for developing basic technical skills and ...

Intern (Unpaid)

Independence, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

... Civil Engineering, Criminal Justice, Business, Urban Planning, etc.). How to Apply To be added to our candidate pool for future internship openings, please submit a cover letter and resume. In your ...

GIS Intern

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

In this Internship, you will get the opportunity to work with a team of seasoned GIS and Project ... Michael Baker International, a leading provider of engineering and consulting services, including ...

Showing results 21-39

Civil Engineering Internships information

See Iowa salary details

$35.7K

$77.7K

$115.5K

How much do civil engineering internships jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil engineering internships in Iowa is $77,652.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,400.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do you do as a civil engineering intern?

A civil engineering intern assists with designing, planning, and analyzing construction projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings. They often perform site inspections, prepare reports, and use tools like AutoCAD or Civil 3D under supervision to gain practical experience in the field.

What is the best internship for civil engineering students?

The best internships for civil engineering students are those with engineering firms, construction companies, or government agencies that offer hands-on experience in design, project management, and site supervision. Internships that provide exposure to industry-standard tools like AutoCAD and Revit, along with opportunities to earn relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training, are highly valuable for career development.

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 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Civil Engineering Internships jobs in Iowa? For Civil Engineering Internships jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Civil Engineering Internships job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,652 per year, or $37.3 per hour.

Civil Engineer - Site Design

Olsson

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Company Description
We are Olsson. We engineer and design solutions that improve the world around us. As a company, we promise to always be responsive, transparent, and focused on results - for our people, our clients, and our company.
We're a people-centric firm, so it's no surprise our greatest asset is our people. The impact this creates is an environment that encourages our people to grow and be creative with their talents. This approach builds a culture that is uniquely Olsson. It allows us to grow our people as we grow our business. This, in turn, creates a lasting impact on the world around us.
Job Description
Olsson provides multidisciplinary design services for mixed-use, commercial, and residential land development projects, along with industrial, sports, schools, and other site development types. As a Civil Engineer for our Site Design team, you will provide basic project design through CAD drafting, instruct drafters on how to create drawings of designs, and prepare project schedules. You may also perform research, write technical reports, and travel to job sites for observation.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Provides small scale design elements for engineering projects using fundamental knowledge, standard techniques, and established methods for small to mid-sized projects.
  • Performs basic plan production and receives instructions for necessary tasks.
  • Develops and applies knowledge and experience working within design and modeling software.
  • Assists with preparation of project documentation and schedules and performs design calculations within a limited scope.
  • Coordinates with experienced engineers and designers on non-routine techniques and procedures.
  • Gathers research, recommends solutions, and creates drafts of technical reports using prescribed methods.
  • Mentors student interns by providing opportunities for developing basic technical skills and knowledge.
  • Gains experience with creating and maintaining project and client information within the firm's project management system.

Qualifications
You are passionate about:
  • Working collaboratively with others.
  • Having ownership in the work you do.
  • Using your talents to positively affect communities.

You bring to the team:
  • Strong communication skills
  • Ability to contribute and work well on a team
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering
  • Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience
  • Must obtain Engineer Intern (EI) certificate
  • Knowledge of Civil 3D

#LI-DNP
Additional Information
Olsson specializes in engineering and design, client advisory services, planning, field services, and environmental. Improving the world has been our mindset from the very beginning, back when Olsson first opened for business in 1956. And it will be our mindset for years to come.
As an Olsson employee, you will:
  • Receive a competitive 401(k) match
  • Be empowered to build your career with tailored development paths
  • Have the possibility for flexible work arrangements
  • Engage in work that has a positive impact on communities
  • Participate in a wellness program promoting balanced lifestyles

In addition, full-time employees will receive our traditional benefits package (health care, vision, dental, paid time off, etc.) and the opportunity to participate in a bonus system that rewards performance.
Olsson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage qualified minority, female, veteran, and disabled candidates to apply and be considered for open positions. We do not discriminate against any applicant for employment or any employee because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender, disability, age, military status, or other protected status.
Olsson understands the importance of privacy and is committed to protecting job applicants' personal information. Pursuant to the California Consumer Privacy Act, as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act (collectively, the "CCPA"), this notice explains Olsson's practices regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information for job applicants residing in California. Please read this Notice carefully to understand our privacy practices.
For more information about the types of information we collect and how we use it in connection with your general access and use of our website, please review our general California Privacy Notice here.