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Design Engineer Internship Jobs in Charleston, SC

Structural Engineer

Mount Pleasant, SC · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

... design disciplines throughout project delivery * Perform peer reviews of calculations, drawings, specifications, and technical reports * Mentor and support engineers and engineering interns within ...

... design disciplines throughout project delivery * Perform peer reviews of calculations, drawings, specifications, and technical reports * Mentor and support engineers and engineering interns within ...

Intern/Co-Op - SC

Charleston, SC

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

... design principles. Interns will have the opportunity to witness field installations of the systems and to work alongside senior engineering staff. Responsibilities will continually increase with ...

Intern/Co-Op - SC

Charleston, SC · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

... design principles. Interns will have the opportunity to witness field installations of the systems and to work alongside senior engineering staff. Responsibilities will continually increase with ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Ladson, SC

$68K - $88K/yr

Use CAD software to create or modify engineering drawings and assist with fixture or tooling ... internship, or work experience. Travel Requirements: Between facilities as needed. Physical ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Ladson, SC

$71K - $91K/yr

Use CAD software to create or modify engineering drawings and assist with fixture or tooling ... internship, or work experience. Travel Requirements: Between facilities as needed. Physical ...

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Design Engineer Internship information

See Charleston, SC salary details

$12

$23

$36

How much do design engineer internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for design engineer internship in Charleston, SC is $23.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $26.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Charleston, SC?

The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Charleston, SC are:

What cities near Charleston, SC are hiring for Design Engineer Internship jobs?

Cities near Charleston, SC with the most Design Engineer Internship job openings:

Entry-Level Civil Design Engineer

Mead & Hunt

North Charleston, SC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Mead & Hunt rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

286th of 450 rated engineering


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, transportation, food/beverage processing, federal, 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.
Mead & Hunt, an award-winning national architecture and engineering firm, has continued to exceed our strategic growth initiatives creating opportunities for our current and prospective team members. As a result, a full-time position is available for a highly motivated entry-level Civil Engineer to join our Aviation group in our Charleston, SC office location.
This exciting position offers a great mix of hands-on learning and real-world experience, giving you the opportunity to contribute to impactful airport project design while also getting out in the field to see your work come to life. You'll support engineering design in the office, while also spending time onsite observing construction progress, building relationships with project teams, and gaining valuable exposure to how projects are delivered from start to finish.
Candidates with backgrounds in transportation and/or any related civil engineering experience are highly encouraged to apply!
Responsibilities include:
  • Designing aviation civil engineering projects, which include taxiways, aprons, runways, and others.
  • Assisting with analysis and preparation of reports, specifications, plans, schedules, studies, permits, and designs for projects.
  • Performing QA/QC tasks including leading design reviews.
  • Assisting with development of construction cost estimates for various projects.
  • Visiting project sites to monitor progress and perform other duties per the contract documents.
  • May serve as onsite project representative.
  • May assist with client contact and communication pertaining to specific projects.
  • May attend client meetings - days or nights.
  • Other tasks as assigned.

A valid driver's license, the ability to pass a background check to gain access to airport sites, and travel (approximately 25%) will be required.
The successful candidate will have the following background:
  • Bachelor's degree (or higher) in civil engineering or related field from an accredited college or university.

The ideal candidate will have experience in any/all the following:
  • Previous related civil / transportation engineering internship(s)
  • EIT certification is highly preferred
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD and Civil 3D software
  • Comfortable with public speaking and working in a client facing role
  • Strong communication skills
  • Civil construction experience
  • Construction field tasks including site grading, utilities, drainage, erosion control, paving, materials testing, and/or surveying
  • Microsoft Excel, Word, and Project software programs

At Mead & Hunt we shape the future by putting people first. If you have strong communication and organizational skills, are self-motivated, and can work well both independently and as part of a team, we can help you grow your career working with industry experts on exciting projects. Complete the online application at www.meadhunt.com/careers if this matches your career goals.
Why Mead & Hunt?
  • Strong Company Culture
  • Robust Career Advancement, Training, & Growth Opportunities
  • Employee-Owned Firm
  • Flexible Schedules
  • Diverse Skillsets, One Company
  • Impressive Benefits Package

Mead & Hunt proudly offers medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, paid sick leave, parental leave, a 401K plan with a generous company match, life and disability insurance, and an employee assistance program.
Mead & Hunt will not sponsor a visa (H-1B, etc.) for this position.
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of applicable pre-employment screening requirements.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.
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