1

Engineering Intern Jobs in Irvine, CA (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Position Summary We are seeking a Process Engineer Intern to support equipment programming and equipment qualification activities within a regulated manufacturing environment. This role provides ...

Engineering Intern - Summer 2027

Santa Ana, CA

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Engineering Intern Opportunities for Students Interns may support one or more engineering areas based on business need, candidate background, and location availability. Examples of work in each area ...

Engineering Intern - Summer 2027

Irvine, CA · On-site

$18 - $23.25/hr

Engineering Intern Opportunities for Students Interns may support one or more engineering areas based on business need, candidate background, and location availability. Examples of work in each area ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Engineering Intern information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$11

$20

$31

How much do engineering intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for engineering intern in Irvine, CA is $20.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $22.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an engineering intern?

Engineering Interns are students or recent graduates who work temporarily at a company to gain practical experience in the engineering field. They assist with various engineering tasks, such as conducting research, drafting technical documents, supporting design and development projects, and collaborating with experienced engineers. These internships help students apply their classroom knowledge to real-world situations and prepare them for full-time engineering roles after graduation.

What does an engineering intern do?

An engineering intern is a student or recent graduate of an engineering program who is gaining hands-on experience in their field through an internship program. Interns in most fields, including engineering, are paid very little and sometimes work only for academic credit. The value is in the experience gained working alongside experienced professionals. In engineering, interns will find that they have an opportunity begin to specialize their skills in an otherwise broad field. They will conduct basic engineering tasks, under supervision, as well as various administrative duties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an engineering intern?

To thrive as an Engineering Intern, you typically need a background in engineering fundamentals, strong problem-solving abilities, and enrollment in or completion of an engineering degree program. Familiarity with technical tools such as CAD software, MATLAB, or project management systems is often required. Strong communication, willingness to learn, and teamwork skills help interns adapt quickly and contribute effectively. These skills ensure that interns can support engineering teams, learn from real-world projects, and build a solid foundation for future roles in the field.

How do engineering interns typically collaborate with full-time engineers during their internship?

Engineering Interns often work closely with full-time engineers by assisting on ongoing projects, attending team meetings, and participating in code reviews or design discussions. They may be paired with a mentor or supervisor who provides regular guidance and feedback. This collaborative environment helps interns develop technical skills, understand workplace expectations, and build professional relationships that can be valuable for future career growth.

What is the difference between Engineering Intern vs Engineering Technician?

AspectEngineering InternEngineering Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed a bachelor's degree in engineeringAssociate degree or technical certification in engineering technology
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in office settings, labs, or on-site project locationsHands-on technical work in labs, manufacturing, or field sites
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by engineering firms, companies, and government agenciesFull-time roles in manufacturing, construction, and engineering services
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level engineering experienceCompared for technical support roles in engineering projects

The main difference between an Engineering Intern and an Engineering Technician lies in their education, work focus, and employment status. Interns are usually students gaining initial experience, while Technicians are trained professionals performing technical tasks. Both roles support engineering projects but serve different stages of career development and technical responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineering jobs in Irvine, CA?

The most popular types of Engineering jobs in Irvine, CA are:

What cities near Irvine, CA are hiring for Engineering Intern jobs?

Cities near Irvine, CA with the most Engineering Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Engineering Intern job openings in Irvine, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,123 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Engineering Intern (Technical Intern)

Orange County, CA

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$23/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Internship

Posted 7 days ago


County Of Orange (California) rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

202nd of 855 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Salary: $23.00 Hourly
Location : Orange County
Job Type: Paid Intern
Job Number: 9023SY-0826-080 (O)
Department: OC Public Works
Opening Date: 08/27/2026
Closing Date: 9/10/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
CAREER DESCRIPTION
Position
Engineering Intern (Technical Intern)
Deadline to Apply
Please note the deadline for this recruitment is Thursday, September 10, 2026, at 11:59 PM (PT).
OC PUBLIC WORKSOC Public Works (OCPW) provides services on a regional basis to unincorporated areas, to cities, and to other County agencies and departments. The primary mission of the department is to protect and enrich the community through the sustainable delivery of projects and services. OC Public Works' guiding principles are safety, integrity, quality, teamwork, and adaptability.
OCPW is a unique County department comprised of ten (10) service areas: Administrative Services, Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer of Weights & Measures; OC Construction; OC Development Services; OC Environmental Resources; OC Facilities Design & Construction and CUF; OC Facilities Maintenance; OC Fleet Services; OC Infrastructure Programs; OC Operations & Maintenance.
OC CONSTRUCTION
OC Construction provides project management and construction management services for projects on OC Public Works' Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and Maintenance Improvement Program (MIP) as well as OC Parks and other County department projects. OC Construction focuses on horizontal projects such as roads, bridges, bikeways, and flood control channels.
For more information on OC Public Works click here.
For more information on the County of Orange click here.
THE OPPORTUNITY
The Technical Intern position provides students with valuable hands-on experience by working alongside licensed civil engineers and experienced professionals on a wide variety of public infrastructure projects throughout Orange County. Interns have the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting while gaining exposure to both office and field work.
Duties may include:
  • Conduct field investigations to document pavement, curb ramps, sidewalks, drainage facilities, and other infrastructure conditions.
  • Collect field measurements, photographs, and other project data.
  • Assist with pavement condition assessments, ADA curb ramp evaluations, and verification of existing conditions.
  • Review plans, specifications, standard plans, reports, and other technical documents under the direction of engineering staff.
  • Prepare quantity takeoffs, cost estimates, exhibits, spreadsheets, maps, and other project documentation.
  • Assist project managers with project tracking, coordination, scheduling, documentation, and follow up on project activities.
  • Support engineering staff during design, construction, and project closeout.
  • Organize and maintain project records and field information.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSThis recruitment is open to applicants who are currently enrolled in or have graduated within the last six (6) months from an accredited college or university pursuing a degree in Engineering, preferably Civil Engineering. Completion of introductory coursework in mathematics and engineering is desirable.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONSThe ideal candidate for this Internship will have basic computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office applications. Ability to perform outdoor field work in varying weather conditions. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions while working effectively in both office and field environments.
TIME COMMITMENTThis is an in-person internship. Interns may work 26-30 hours per week for 1 year (part-time) not to exceed 1,040 hours. Hours must be scheduled during normal business hours (Monday - Thursday between 6:30am and 4:00pm & Friday between 6:30am and 3:00pm).
BENEFITS AVAILABLE TO THE INTERNInterns are offered an excellent opportunity to:
  • Provides students with valuable hands-on experience working alongside licensed land surveyors and experienced professionals.
  • Offers exposure to a wide variety of public infrastructure projects throughout Orange County.
  • Allows interns to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting.
  • Explore a career in local government.
  • Mentorship from management staff.
  • Network with professionals.
  • Apply knowledge through real life application and best practices in field.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Applicants must attach a cover letter, resume, and unofficial transcripts to their application. The cover letter is an opportunity for students to describe career and academic goals, to elaborate upon personal and academic accomplishments, and to identify what type of internship experience they are seeking. Learn more about what to include in a cover letter .
Applications that do not include a cover letter, resume, and unofficial transcripts will not be considered.
REQUIRED BACKGROUND SCREENING/REFERENCE CHECK
Prior to placement, applicants may be asked to submit contact information for reference checks, and a background screening will be conducted that requires a state issued driver's license or ID card and a U.S. Social Security number.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
EMAIL NOTIFICATION
Email is the primary form of notification during the recruitment process. Please ensure your correct email address is included in our application and use only one email account.
NOTE: User accounts are established for one person only and should not be shared with another person. Multiple applications with multiple users may jeopardize your status in the recruitment process for any positions for which you apply.
Candidates will be notified regarding their status as the recruitment proceeds via email through the GovernmentJobs.com site. Please check your email folders, including spam/junk folders, and/or accept emails ending with "governmentjobs.com" and "ocgov.com." If your email address should change, please update your profile at
.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
For additional internship postings, please check our Web site at the following link:
Click
for additional Frequently Asked Questions.
For specific information pertaining to this recruitment, please contact (714) 834-2555 or
EEO INFORMATION
Orange County, as an equal employment opportunity employer, encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.
This position does not offer any benefits.
If you have any questions, please contact the recruiter for this position. The recruiter should be listed on the Job Posting.
01
To be considered for an internship opportunity, you must submit by attaching to this application your cover letter, resume, and unofficial transcripts.I have read and understand this requirement to be considered.(Please attach cover letter, resume, and unofficial transcripts)
  • Yes
  • No

02
Please list computer programs you have experience with such as Microsoft Word, Excel, etc.
03
Please enter approximate date you can begin internship.
04
Please list the number of hours you can schedule each week.
05
Please list out the days you are available to schedule intern hours and the available times for each day.Example: Monday, 10am-2pm.
06
I am currently enrolled in or have graduated within the last six (6) months from an accredited college or university pursuing a degree in Engineering, preferably Civil Engineering. Completion of introductory coursework in mathematics and engineering is desirable.
  • Yes
  • No

07
Please read the following statement carefully. After reading the statement, answer the question.
In conjunction with the passage of Assembly Bill 2830 by the California State Legislature, specific individuals may qualify for hiring preference when applying for an internship position.
Individuals who are, or have been, a dependent child in foster care, a homeless youth, or a formerly incarcerated youth as defined by Government Code section 31000.11 are encouraged to apply and will be given priority in the hiring process. Please note that prior to appointment, individuals claiming preference under one of these categories may be required to furnish documentation establishing their eligibility. Are you eligible to receive this hiring preference based on Government Code 31000.11?
(Select "Yes" only if you belong to one of the above mentioned categories)
  • No, I am not eligible for government code section 31000.11
  • I am, or have been, a dependent child in foster care, a homeless youth, or a formerly incarcerated youth as defined by Government Code section 31000.11

08
Will you receive academic credit through your college/university?
(Students will be asked to provide University agreements or MOUs that a site supervisor is required to sign before being offered placement)
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

What County Of Orange (California) employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom