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Intern Project Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Project Engineer Intern

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$17.40 - $23.70/hr

Project Engineer Intern typically work in an office environment, although they may occasionally visit worksites to observe a project or to meet with clients. When on Project Engineer intern is to ...

Project Engineer Intern

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$17.40 - $23.70/hr

Project Engineer Intern typically work in an office environment, although they may occasionally visit worksites to observe a project or to meet with clients. When on Project Engineer intern is to ...

Project Engineer Intern

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

Position Summary An ISEC Project Engineer Intern will gain hands-on experience by assisting Project Managers and Estimators on a variety of commercial construction projects. This person will ...

Project Engineer Intern

San Diego, CA

$17.75 - $23/hr

Position Summary An ISEC Project Engineer Intern will gain hands-on experience by assisting Project Managers and Estimators on a variety of commercial construction projects. This person will ...

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Showing results 1-20

Intern Project Engineer information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do intern project engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for intern project engineer in California is $19.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $20.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an Intern Project Engineer?

As an Intern Project Engineer, you can expect to assist in coordinating engineering project activities, such as preparing technical documentation, supporting senior engineers with design or site visits, and tracking project progress. Interns often work alongside multidisciplinary teams, gaining exposure to project management processes, client communication, and problem-solving in real-world scenarios. The role is hands-on and offers valuable experience in applying engineering principles, making it a great stepping stone for a full-time engineering career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Intern Project Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Intern Project Engineer, you need a foundational knowledge in engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and academic progress toward a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, project management tools, and basic understanding of industry-specific codes or standards is often expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn help you stand out in collaborative project environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively supporting project teams, learning on the job, and contributing to successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Intern Project Engineer vs Project Engineer?

AspectIntern Project EngineerProject Engineer
QualificationsEnrolled in or recent graduate of engineering or related programBachelor's degree in engineering or related field, some experience
Work EnvironmentSupport role, learning-focused, supervised by senior staffResponsible for project planning, coordination, and execution
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with tasks, gaining industry knowledgeManaging project phases, liaising with teams and clients

The Intern Project Engineer role is an entry-level, learning position for students or recent graduates, focusing on support and skill development. The Project Engineer is a more experienced role with responsibilities for managing parts of projects, requiring relevant education and some experience. Both roles are common in engineering industries, but they differ mainly in experience level and scope of responsibilities.

What does an Intern Project Engineer do?

An Intern Project Engineer supports engineering teams by assisting in the planning, design, and execution of projects. Typical tasks may include preparing project documentation, coordinating between departments, conducting site visits, and performing data analysis. The role is designed to give students or recent graduates practical experience in engineering project management while working under the supervision of experienced engineers. Intern Project Engineers learn industry standards, develop technical skills, and gain insight into the project's lifecycle from conception to completion.
What are the most commonly searched types of Project Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Project Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Intern Project Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Intern Project Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Intern Project Engineer job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 96% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,648 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
Intern - Project Engineer

$26/hr

Full-time, Internship

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Southland Industries rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

 

Our Internship and New College Graduate program is best designed for those students who seek a truly immersive and hands-on experience. At Southland, we view every student as a potential hire and ensure each intern, co-op student, and every new college graduate is truly set up for success to accomplish short and long term career goals. If a student program that exposes you to exciting projects and potential career paths with one of the country’s largest MEP building systems firms appeals to you and you're ready for the next big step in your career, then JOIN our team and become a part of an organization that values PEOPLE, SAFETY, INNOVATION, COLLABORATION, INTEGRITY, ACCOUNTABILITY & SUSTAINABILITY.

Position Summary

Our internship program is designed to introduce students to a career in the Design/Build HVAC, Plumbing and Fire Protection industry. Primary responsibility is to assist a design manager or project manager to successfully coordinate a project using the necessary engineering, labor, equipment, materials, tools, and subcontracted services. This position requires the development of skills in design, estimating and scheduling to better understand the coordination of the design-build construction process.

Position Details

  • Support field labor
  • Labor feedback   
  • Equipment & Subcontractor procurement
  • Document Control
  • Design, Trade & Subcontractor coordination
  • Assist in budget analysis, cost and margin projections, estimate project changes & impacts, etc.
  • Assist in the development of project schedules.

Qualifications

  • You’re pursuing a degree that aligns with Southland needs:
    • Mechanical, Architectural, Electrical Engineering
    • Construction Engineering
    • Civil Engineering
    • Safety Sciences
    • Other areas of interest – Building Automation, Energy Management
  • You have an Interest in technical courses – fluids, heat transfer, CM scheduling, finance, etc.
  • A strong work ethic
  • Initiative and drive to get the job done
  • Strong communication skills
  • The ability to be resourceful and resilient
  • Able to solve problems with limited support
  • Quick learner, seeks answers on their own
  • Positive attitude during adverse/non-ideal situations
  • Exercises Accountability in stressful situations (avoids placing blame)
  • Goal Oriented
  • Collaborative spirit and a Good Teammate – has a “We vs. Me” attitude
  • Strong active listening skills
  • Competent general business writing and public speaking

What you’ll gain from our Student Programs at Southland Industries:

  • Basic knowledge of HVAC design to include types of equipment utilized in the industry as well as general understanding of system operations (i.e. variable air, constant volume, refrigeration cycle) is desired but not required.
  • The ability to read mechanical and plumbing drawings and identify work installed to track labor feedback accurately.
  • The ability to prepare an equipment delivery log and track status of these orders.
  • You’ll learn to communicate effectively with engineers, vendors and suppliers to procure, manage and update the submittal process.
  • Ability to communicate with field foremen in order to write and track Requests for Information (RFI) both internally with our design department and externally with the architect or other designers.
  • Finally, you’ll get your hands dirty!

Pay: For California-based internship roles, the pay rate is set at $26.00 per hour, in alignment with program guidelines and market standards.

Internship/Co-op Program Benefits:

  • Hands-on classroom and on-the-job experience in your specific role
  • Opportunity to work side by side with company leaders
  • Socially distant group activities and team events
  • Paid housing (some locations)
  • Paid internship/Co-op
  • Potential full-time employment opportunities

Full-time Employee Benefits

As a 100% employee-owned company, we offer a comprehensive benefits package for you and your family:

  • 401(k) plan with 50% company match (no cap) and immediate 100% vesting
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance (100% paid for employee)
  • Annual bonus program based upon performance, achievement, and company profitability
  • Term life, AD&D insurance, and voluntary life insurance
  • Disability income protection insurance
  • Pre-tax flexible spending plans (health and dependent care)
  • Paid parental leave
  • Paid holidays, vacation, and personal time
  • Training/professional development opportunities and company-paid memberships for professional associations and licenses
  • Wellness benefits

About Southland Industries

As one of the nation’s largest MEP companies, Southland Industries is built on the foundation of great people. Since 1949, we have put our people first, enabling growth, professional achievement, and innovation. If you want to join a fast-paced environment where you’re engaged, challenged, and valued, apply now to join our dynamic team.

To learn more about careers at Southland, explore our career opportunities, follow us on social media, and check out our website.

Southland Industries and all its subsidiaries are an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. We are committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing our employees with a safe work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at Southland Industries are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, gender, gender identity, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, family care or medical leave status, veteran status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. Southland Industries will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.

Contingent Employment: All employment offers are contingent upon successful drug tests, background checks, and professional reference checks. Roles that include driving as an essential job duty will be required to have a successful Motor Vehicle Record check (MVR). We are not able to offer sponsorship of employment at this time.

External Agency Announcement: Its Southland Industries' policy not to accept candidate submissions from recruiting agencies without an active and authorized work order. Candidate ownership can only be established after a bona fide work order is issued by a member of the Southland Industries Talent Acquisition team and the candidate is appropriately submitted through our Applicant Tracking System (ATS).


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