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Design Engineer Internship Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Are you an aspiring or junior engineer looking to build a versatile foundation in civil design ... Any academic coursework, internships, or prior work experience in water and wastewater systems is ...

Civil Design Engineer

Bristol, VA ยท On-site

$63K - $79K/yr

Are you an aspiring or junior engineer looking to build a versatile foundation in civil design ... Any academic coursework, internships, or prior work experience in water and wastewater systems is ...

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Design Engineer Internship information

What is a design engineer internship?

A Design Engineer Internship is a temporary position for students or recent graduates to gain practical experience in engineering design. Interns work under the supervision of experienced engineers to assist with designing products, systems, or components using tools like CAD software. They may participate in brainstorming sessions, draft technical drawings, and help test prototypes. This internship helps develop technical skills, real-world problem-solving abilities, and an understanding of the engineering design process.

What do design engineer interns do?

As a Design Engineer Intern, you can expect to work on a variety of hands-on projects such as creating CAD models, assisting with prototype development, and supporting design validation tests. Interns often collaborate closely with senior engineers and cross-functional teams, gaining exposure to real-world engineering challenges and iterative design processes. You may also participate in team meetings, contribute to brainstorming sessions, and help document design changes, providing valuable insights into the full product development lifecycle. This role offers a great opportunity to build technical skills, learn industry-standard tools, and understand how engineering teams function in a professional setting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a design engineer intern?

To thrive as a Design Engineer Intern, you need a solid understanding of engineering fundamentals, CAD software proficiency, and coursework or a degree track in mechanical, electrical, or related engineering fields. Familiarity with tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software is often required, and experience with prototyping or 3D printing is a plus. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help you excel in collaborative design environments. These competencies enable interns to contribute meaningfully to projects, adapt to technical challenges, and support the innovation process within engineering teams.

What is the difference between Design Engineer Internship vs Design Engineer?

AspectDesign Engineer InternshipDesign Engineer
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed a relevant degree (e.g., Mechanical, Civil, Electrical Engineering)Bachelor's or Master's degree in engineering or related field, with some roles requiring professional licensure
Work EnvironmentInternship programs, often in engineering firms, manufacturing, or construction companiesFull-time professional roles in design departments, engineering firms, or manufacturing companies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies to train and evaluate potential future employees; common in engineering and manufacturing sectorsEstablished engineering roles involved in designing products, systems, or structures across various industries

The main difference is that a Design Engineer Internship is a temporary, training-focused position for students or recent graduates, while a Design Engineer is a full-time professional responsible for designing engineering solutions. Internships provide hands-on experience, whereas full-time roles involve ongoing project responsibilities and career development.

Is a design engineer internship in high demand?

Design engineer internships are generally in high demand as companies seek skilled interns to support product development and engineering projects. Candidates with proficiency in CAD software, engineering principles, and relevant technical skills are often preferred, making these internships competitive but valuable for gaining industry experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Design Engineer Internship jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Design Engineer Internship job openings:

Engineering Internship Summer 2027

Midlothian, VA โ€ข On-site

Progressive Design
Engineering Professional Servicesย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$15.50 - $20/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Progressive Design, Inc. is currently seeking Engineering Interns. This is a paid position for the summer of 2027 that is located in Midlothian, VA- (Richmond, VA area).
We hire the best in Engineering & Design! Hands-on experience, years of industry knowledge, continuous training, and commitment to excellence are some of the attributes that make Progressive Design's professional staff the best at what we do. The company has experienced consistent growth and on-going success from hiring the right people that focus on client success, embrace an entrepreneurial spirit and demonstrate the highest integrity.
Internship Requirements and Information:
  • Current Juniors pursuing a Civil/Structural Engineering degree ,Chemical Engineering degree, Mechanical Engineering degree or Electrical Engineering degree from an accredited undergraduate program
  • Onsite Internship located in Midlothian, VA
  • Internship will focus on job shadowing, client site visits and design engineering project work
  • Interest in the heavy industrial field & consulting engineering
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office
  • Strong communication and organizational skills.
  • Must be results oriented
  • Must be a team player
  • Must possess uncompromised commitment to quality
  • No housing stipend is provided.

Company Overview:
Progressive Design, Inc. (PDI) is a private, family-owned, Heavy Industrial Engineering & Design Consulting firm that provides valued engineering services. Founded in 1986 by Robert Ranson, Progressive Design has grown to become one of the largest privately held multi-discipline engineering firms in central Virginia. In 2021, Robert's daughter and Progressive Design President, Erica Burgess, acquired ownership and established Progressive Design as a Woman-Owned business.
Our team's knowledge and hands-on experience can take projects from concept to startup. As a full service, multi-discipline engineering consulting firm, we support manufacturing facilities and clients in many key areas including: EPC/Turnkey projects, project feasibility studies, process improvement analysis, new process design, process upgrades, air pollution abatement technology and integration, environmental compliance, product design, industrial capital projects, and detailed project/construction estimates.
We serve Fortune 500 companies in industries such as chemical, tobacco, power, films, fibers, plastics, paper, pharmaceuticals, metals, food and beverage, and discrete manufacturing.