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Civil Intern Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Due to ongoing growth, we are seeking a civil engineering intern for a limited-term, full-time position in our Aviation group at either the Ontario or San Diego, CA offices. This internship begins ...

Civil Engineer Intern

Concord, CA · On-site

$25 - $29/hr

The Civil Engineer Intern will support civil engineering teams in the planning, design, analysis, and construction support of infrastructure and site development projects. This internship provides ...

Civil Engineering Intern

Concord, CA · On-site

$25 - $34.11/hr

The Civil Engineer Intern will support civil engineering teams in the planning, design, analysis, and construction support of infrastructure and site development projects. This internship provides ...

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Civil Intern information

What is a civil intern?

Civil Interns are students or recent graduates who work temporarily in civil engineering firms or government departments to gain practical experience in the field. Their responsibilities typically include assisting with engineering designs, site inspections, preparing reports, and supporting project management tasks under the supervision of licensed engineers. This role provides hands-on exposure to real-world civil engineering projects, helping interns develop technical and professional skills. Civil Internships are a valuable step toward a career in civil engineering and are often required for graduation or professional licensure.

What types of projects and tasks can a civil intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Civil Intern, you can typically expect to assist with a variety of tasks such as drafting construction plans, conducting site visits, collecting and analyzing data, and preparing reports under the supervision of experienced engineers. You'll often work closely with project teams to support the design and development of infrastructure like roads, bridges, or water systems. This hands-on experience is valuable for understanding real-world engineering challenges and developing your technical and teamwork skills. Interns may also attend team meetings and collaborate with professionals from other disciplines, offering a comprehensive view of how civil engineering projects are managed from start to finish.

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

To thrive as a Civil Intern, you generally need a background in civil engineering or a related field, with foundational knowledge in design principles and construction practices. Familiarity with AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Microsoft Office, as well as basic surveying tools, is often expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help interns collaborate effectively and learn from senior engineers. These skills and qualities are crucial to successfully support project tasks, ensure accuracy, and gain practical experience in the field.

What is the difference between Civil Intern vs Civil Engineer?

AspectCivil InternCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed a bachelor's degree in civil engineeringLicensed professional with a bachelor's degree, often with a PE license
Work EnvironmentAssist in project tasks under supervision, often in office or field settingsLead projects, make design decisions, and oversee construction activities
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by engineering firms, government agencies, and construction companiesFull-time roles in similar organizations, responsible for project execution

The main difference between a Civil Intern and a Civil Engineer lies in experience, responsibilities, and credentials. Civil Interns are typically students or recent graduates gaining practical experience, while Civil Engineers are licensed professionals managing projects and making critical decisions. Internships serve as a stepping stone toward becoming a licensed Civil Engineer.

What are the most commonly searched types of Civil jobs in California?

The most popular types of Civil jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Civil Intern jobs?

Cities in California with the most Civil Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Civil Intern job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Civil Engineering Intern

Ontario, CA • On-site


Mead & Hunt
Civil Engineering Construction • 1 - 5K employees

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

286th of 450 rated engineering

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Respectful managers


$19 - $25/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Internship

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Established in 1900, Mead & Hunt is a nationally recognized professional services consulting firm. Our planning, design and construction services are available to clients across a wide variety of sectors. From architecture, aviation, food/beverage processing, and federal to transportation, water infrastructure and more, our unique methodologies deliver innovative, cost-effective solutions that elevate clients and communities.
Here at Mead & Hunt, our culture is about taking care of people, doing the right thing, and doing what makes sense. We are a flexible company that believes in giving back to our communities. We are employee-owned and support initiatives through our various employee programs. We invest in our employees and build relationships that last.
Due to ongoing growth, we are seeking a civil engineering intern for a limited-term, full-time position in our Aviation group at either the Ontario or San Diego, CA offices. This internship begins May/June to August/September 2027 with the potential for part-time work after the summer.
This intern will be responsible for assisting engineers, technicians, and surveyors with civil engineering projects in the following areas:
  • Assisting engineers, technicians, and surveyors with civil design of airport projects including taxiways, runways, aprons, etc.
  • Assisting with airfield design tasks, including grading, drainage, pavement, and geometry layouts
  • Supporting the preparation of engineering drawings and plan sheets using AutoCAD and Civil 3D
  • Performing quantity takeoffs, cost estimates, and data collection for airport improvement projects
  • Supporting the preparation of technical reports, calculations, and project documentation
  • Participating in field investigations, airport site visits, and construction observations
  • Assisting engineers with FAA standards research and compliance reviews
  • Other tasks as assigned

A valid driver's license, the ability to pass background checks to gain access to airport sites, and approximately 10-20% travel to construction project sites may be required.
Successful candidates must have completed at least two semesters of college-level coursework in civil engineering or related field from an accredited college or university by date of hire.
The ideal candidate will also have experience with any of the following:
  • Experience with AutoCAD, Microsoft Office and Civil3D software
  • Civil/survey engineering coursework
  • Construction field experience including observation and documentation
  • Previous internships involving civil design or construction
  • Understanding of basic grading and material testing processes
  • Knowledge of airport planning and/or design

If you have strong communication and organizational skills, are self-motivated, and can work well both independently and as part of a team, complete the online application process for this job posting at www.meadhunt.com/careers
Hourly Rate Range: $19.00 to $25.00 - Actual compensation may vary due to other factors such as: experience, skill set or location.
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of applicable pre-employment screening requirements.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.
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