Entry Level Physical Design Engineer Jobs in Champaign, IL

About the Opportunity

We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Structural Engineering Intern to join our team. This position offers the chance to work on the structural design of commercial and institutional buildings, while gaining valuable real-world experience under the mentorship of licensed engineers and senior technicians. This role is onsite in our Champaign, IL office.

MSA internships are typically at least 12 weeks in duration, ranging from mid-May 2027 to mid-August 2027, with start/exit dates confirmed later in the hiring process. For engineering students seeking consulting experience with building projects, this is the position for you!   Additionally, an internship at MSA provides you with a collaborative environment across the firm among the 40 interns each summer.

• Work on meaningful projects that improve building performance, comfort and sustainability.

• Mentorship from experienced mechanical engineers.

• Exposure to a collaborative and supportive workplace culture.

• Opportunity to build professional skills and explore a career in building systems design.

Please note that MSA receives an extremely high volume of applicants for our internship listings, and we appreciate your patience. The team will be in touch as soon as possible. Even if you applied online, the team encourages you to visit the MSA career fair booth if visiting your campus this fall.

What you will do:

• Assist in the design and drafting of plumbing systems, including domestic water, sanitary, and specialty piping systems.

• Prepare drawings, layouts, and construction documents using CAD/Revit software.

• Support in performing calculations for system sizing, equipment selection, and code compliance.

• Collaborate with engineers and designers to integrate plumbing systems into overall building projects.

• Participate in site visits to observe installations and learn about construction practices.

What you bring:

• Current enrollment in a Civil or Structural Engineering (or related) bachelor's program.

• Strong interest in plumbing systems and building design.

• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, or similar design software preferred.

• Solid understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.

• Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

• The selected candidate must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. without requiring visa sponsorship now or in the future. We are unable to provide or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this role.

Why MSA?

• Better Together: A collaborative environment that values open ideas, diversity, and authenticity. Our diverse perspectives fuel innovation and success in our employee-owned firm.
• Multi-disciplinary Opportunities: Follow your interests, explore new experiences, and apply your skills where they have the most impact.
• We've Got Your Back: Enjoy support when you need it and independence when you don't. We are 500+ strong, working as one cohesive team.
• Passion & Purpose: We're passionate about our work and proud of it! Share inspirations, "geek out," and think big with us.
• Pay & Perks: Competitive pay and unique perks that make MSA stand out.
• Communities of Practice: Our think tanks and idea generators-regular collaboration and learning opportunities.
• Work-Life Integration: Life doesn't stop when work begins. We support your professional and personal balance.
• Commitment to Learning: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and cutting-edge technology to keep you connected and creative.
• Community Engagement: Giving back through volunteering, education, STEM outreach, and event participation, backed by corporate sponsorship and donations.

The salary for this position ranges from $23 to $27 per year commensurate with experience. Higher compensation within this range will be paid to candidates with significant experience and exceptional qualifications.

MSA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. At MSA, we value a diverse, inclusive workforce and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual's race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws.  If you are unable to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at hr@msa-ps.com

Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer