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Internship Project Engineer Jobs in Champaign, IL

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Internship Project Engineer information

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$11

$19

$29

How much do internship project engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship project engineer in Champaign, IL is $19.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an Internship Project Engineer expect to handle during their placement?

As an Internship Project Engineer, you can expect to assist with project planning, scheduling, and coordination under the supervision of senior engineers. Your daily tasks may include preparing project documentation, conducting site visits, analyzing data, and collaborating with cross-functional teams such as design, procurement, and construction. This role provides hands-on exposure to real-world engineering challenges and allows you to develop communication and technical skills that are essential for future career advancement. Interns are often encouraged to take initiative and may be given ownership of smaller project components, providing valuable learning opportunities in a supportive environment.

What is an Internship Project Engineer?

An Internship Project Engineer is a student or recent graduate who works temporarily in an engineering role, assisting with various project-related tasks under supervision. They gain hands-on experience by supporting project planning, design, coordination, and execution, often within fields like civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering. The internship helps them develop technical and soft skills, understand real-world project workflows, and build professional networks. Typically, this position is intended for individuals seeking to complement their academic studies with practical engineering experience.

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

To thrive as an Internship Project Engineer, you need a foundation in engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and typically enrollment in or completion of an engineering degree program. Familiarity with CAD software, project management tools, and basic knowledge of industry-specific standards is often expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability are standout soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and learning quickly on the job. These skills and qualities ensure effective project support, smooth technical collaboration, and valuable hands-on experience for future engineering roles.

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

AspectInternship Project EngineerProject Engineer
Required CredentialsEnrolled in or recent graduate of engineering or related programBachelor's degree in engineering or related field, often with professional certification
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, supervised, learning-focusedFull-time, responsible for project execution and management
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs in construction, manufacturing, or engineering firmsConstruction, civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering projects

Internship Project Engineers are entry-level, learning roles designed for students or recent graduates gaining practical experience. Project Engineers are full-time professionals responsible for planning, executing, and overseeing projects. The internship provides foundational exposure, while the Project Engineer role involves independent project management tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Project Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL? The most popular types of Project Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL are:
What cities near Champaign, IL are hiring for Internship Project Engineer jobs? Cities near Champaign, IL with the most Internship Project Engineer job openings:
Internship Project Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Internship Project Engineer job openings in Champaign, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,233 per year, or $19.3 per hour.
Engineering Technician Civil

Engineering Technician Civil

MSA Professional Services, Inc.

Champaign, IL

$21 - $34/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Overview

MSA has an opportunity for an Engineering Technician - Civil at either our Dubuque, Bettendorf or Champaign IL office locations.  This role will primarily focus on construction observation and is ideal for a recent graduate who enjoys being in the field and wants hands-on experience during the construction season, while also gaining exposure to design work during the winter months. You'll play a key role in supporting transportation projects and ensuring quality execution in the field. 

MSA specializes in the sustainable development of communities and is proud to be 100% employee owned. With roots reaching back to 1919, MSA has grown from a rural land survey company into a multidisciplinary network of nearly 550 engineers, architects, planners, funding experts, surveyors, GIS experts, environmental scientists, and more who are committed to making communities better places to live, work, and play. 

Come join the ownership team here! 

Employee Testimonial:

"As an employee-owned company (100% ESOP), working at MSA is not just a job. We're genuine co-owners, and this ESOP setup promotes a culture of collaboration and engagement throughout MSA because we all have a direct financial interest as owners." -Project Engineer - Transportation, Cedar Rapids Office

Responsibilities

Construction Observation (Primary - Seasonal)

  • Perform on-site construction observation to monitor contractor work for compliance with plans and specifications
  • Document daily construction activities, quantities, and progress
  • Coordinate with contractors, inspectors, and project teams to address field issues
  • Assist with field measurements, testing coordination, and verification of materials and workmanship
  • Maintain accurate records, reports, and photo documentation throughout construction projects

Design & Engineering Support (Off-Season/Winter Months)

  • Assist with civil design tasks including grading, utilities, and site development plans
  • Perform basic engineering calculations and support preparation of plans, specifications, and reports
  • Utilize CADD and other engineering software to support project deliverables
  • Compile and analyze data to support engineering studies and design decisions

Collaboration & Communication

  • Work closely with Project Managers, engineers, and field staff to support project delivery
  • Communicate project updates, issues, and progress effectively to internal teams
  • Attend meetings with clients and project stakeholders as needed
  • Represent MSA professionally in the field and in interactions with the public and project partners

Professional Development

  • Develop strong field knowledge of construction practices and standards
  • Build foundational design skills through winter project work
  • Gain increasing responsibility and independence over time
  • Actively seek mentorship and opportunities for growth
Qualifications

Education

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an ABET-accredited program

Experience

  • Internship or co-op experience in construction or civil engineering preferred

Skills

  • Basic understanding of civil engineering principles and construction practices
  • Familiarity with CADD (AutoCAD/Civil 3D preferred)
  • Strong communication and documentation skills
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions for extended periods
  • Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and adapt to changing field conditions

Licensure

  • EIT certification preferred or ability to obtain
MSA Culture Highlights

Eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:Compensation Range: $21-34 an hour (commensurate with experience)

  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Paid Time Off and Holidays
  • 401(k) with company contribution
  • Professional development and licensure support
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
  • Primarily field-based during construction season; office-based design work in winter months
  • Regular outdoor work in active construction environments
  • Occasional travel and potential overnight stays based on project needs
  • Ability to stand, walk, and navigate construction sites for extended periods
  • Ability to lift up to 25 pounds regularly and up to 50 pounds occasionally
Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

MSA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

MSA is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact hr@msa-ps.com so we can assist you.

Employment Type: OTHER

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