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Public Works Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

H. Department of Public Works is seeking an intern with a background in Civil Engineering to work 24 - 35 hours per week for a period of up to 10 weeks (between June to August 2024) to assist the ...

Engineering Intern

Maplewood, MN · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

Public Works Division: Engineering Opening Date: 06/02/2026 Closing Date: 6/21/2026 11:59 AM ... Intern performs various responsibilities for department. Received administrative supervision from ...

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Public Works Intern information

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How much do public works intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for public works intern in the United States is $17.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and tasks can a Public Works Intern expect to be involved with during their internship?

As a Public Works Intern, you can expect to assist with a variety of projects that support the maintenance and development of public infrastructure, such as roads, parks, water systems, and public buildings. Typical tasks include conducting site inspections, helping with data collection and analysis, preparing reports, and assisting with project planning or community outreach. You'll often collaborate with engineers, project managers, and field crews, gaining hands-on experience and insight into the operations of a municipal public works department. This role provides a valuable opportunity to develop technical and teamwork skills while learning about local government processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Public Works Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Works Intern, you generally need a background in civil engineering or a related field, strong analytical skills, and an understanding of public infrastructure concepts. Familiarity with drafting software like AutoCAD, GIS systems, and Microsoft Office Suite is typically required, along with any relevant coursework or certifications. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help you excel in collaborative projects and community interactions. These skills enable interns to effectively support public infrastructure projects and contribute meaningfully to municipal operations.

What does a Public Works Intern do?

A Public Works Intern assists with various projects and tasks that support the operations of a city or municipality’s public works department. Their duties may include conducting field inspections, collecting and analyzing data, helping to manage infrastructure projects, and providing administrative support. Interns gain hands-on experience in areas such as civil engineering, urban planning, and environmental management, working alongside experienced professionals. This role is ideal for students or recent graduates interested in public service and municipal operations.

What is the difference between Public Works Intern vs Civil Engineering Intern?

AspectPublic Works InternCivil Engineering Intern
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or ongoing college coursework in public works, civil engineering, or related fieldsEnrolled in civil engineering or related engineering degree programs
Work EnvironmentPublic sector, government agencies, municipal projectsEngineering firms, construction sites, consulting companies
Employer & Industry UsageLocal government, public infrastructure projectsEngineering firms, construction companies, infrastructure projects

Public Works Interns typically focus on municipal infrastructure projects and work within government agencies, often requiring coursework in public works or civil engineering. Civil Engineering Interns usually work in engineering firms or construction environments, with a stronger emphasis on engineering principles. Both roles serve as entry points for students seeking careers in civil infrastructure, but their work settings and specific focus areas differ.

What cities are hiring for Public Works Intern jobs? Cities with the most Public Works Intern job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Works jobs? The most popular types of Public Works jobs are:
What states have the most Public Works Intern jobs? States with the most job openings for Public Works Intern jobs include:

Public Works Engineering Internship

City of Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$15.53 - $19.67/hr

Part-time

Posted 8 days ago


City Of Virginia Beach rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

423rd of 643 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Requisition ID:
48153
Work Location:
Public Works - Sabre Street
Pay Range:
H3282 - H3284, $15.53 - $19.67
Starting Salary:
Depending upon Qualifications
Work Schedule:
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Mon - Friday for approx.12 weeks (May 18, 2026 - August 7, 2026)
Part Time Hours/Wk:
40
Job Open Date:
12/19/25
Application Deadline:
4/29/26
Job Duties:
The City of Virginia Beach Department of Public Works Internship Program is designed to recruit diverse college students majoring in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related discipline. The program provides viable full-time work experiences during the summer that assist students in making connections between textbook knowledge and real-world experiences.
Eligibility:Must be a currently enrolled student (in an associate's, bachelor's, master's degree or PhD program) and be in good academic standing as determined by the school, college, or university.
Minimum Qualifications: Candidates must possess a valid Driver's license. Candidates must be currently enrolled in an ABET accredited engineering, engineering technology, architecture, or construction management program.
We are seeking talented students who demonstrate excellent problem solving, analytical, communication (written and oral), and interpersonal skills that may be utilized in the following positions. Please indicate on your application the specific opportunity below you are interested in.
Public Works Traffic Operations:
Duties may include performing basic engineering analysis and field investigations; collecting traffic counts using automated counters & tube counters; assisting with inspection and inventory for City infrastructure assets, including signs & signals, ADA ramps, pavement, and sidewalk; updating, and maintaining database records & uploading traffic count data into the traffic database system.
Schedule and Hours:
Candidates will work a 40-hour internship between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday for approximately 12 weeks (May 18, 2026 - August 7, 2026). Normal work hours may vary depending on the position. Flexibility for school schedules is allowable. The applicant is responsible for providing their own transportation to work and housing during the summer internship.
Application Attachments: Please include a resume, cover letter and transcripts (unofficial will be accepted). Incomplete applications will not be considered for the internship program. Interviews will be scheduled for the qualified applicants until the position is filled. April 2026 is the last month interviews will be scheduled for the 2026 Summer Internship Program. References may be requested at time of interview.
Official City Job Description:
Working Conditions:
There is no working conditions statement available for this position at this time.
Minimum Requirements:
Minimums: Must be at least 15 years of age and eligible for appropriate working permits. Must be a currently enrolled student (in an associate's, bachelor's, master's degree or PhD program) and be in good academic standing as determined by the school, college, or university. Candidates must possess a valid Driver's license. Candidates must be currently enrolled in an ABET accredited engineering, engineering technology, architecture, or construction management program.
Additional Requirements:
DMV Transcript: Not Required
CDL: Not Required
DOT History: Not Required
CPS Check: Not Required
Physical: Not Required
Respirator: Not Required
Polygraph Review: Not Required
Psychological Screening: Not Required
Attachments Required: Please include a resume, cover letter and transcripts (unofficial will be accepted). Incomplete applications will not be considered for the internship program.
Preferences:
Special Instructions:
Please Note: The City will not provide housing or transportation for the internship opportunities.
  • Please complete the application in its entirety and include your resume if required by the posting.
  • Your responses to any "Supplemental Questions", if attached to this requisition, must be supported by the information you provide on your application and/or resume; or otherwise demonstrated during the hiring process.
  • You will not be able to access the details of this job ad once the closing date has passed. If you would like to retain this information, please take a screen shot or print using your browser's printing capability.

VRS Contribution: All full-time employees are required to contribute 5% of annual salary toward their retirement account; in accordance with VRS retirement provisions. This will be handled through a pre-tax payroll deduction.
Drug Free Workplace: The City of Virginia Beach maintains a drug free workplace.

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