1

Spatial Design Internship Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Apply working knowledge of spatial and programmatic requirements, construction standards, detailing ... Review the work of Designer I, Technical Designer I, Design Assistants, and Interns as assigned ...

Apply working knowledge of spatial and programmatic requirements, construction standards, detailing ... Review the work of Designer I, Technical Designer I, Design Assistants, and Interns as assigned ...

Spatial Data related database design, scripting/GIS programming and leadership skills are preferred. * Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Strong organizational and analytical skills.

Spatial Design Internship information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$19

$37

How much do spatial design internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for spatial design internship in Chicago, IL is $19.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $22.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a spatial design internship?

A spatial design internship is a temporary position where students or recent graduates gain hands-on experience working with professionals in the field of spatial design. Interns typically assist with designing and planning spaces such as interiors, exhibitions, urban environments, or public areas. The internship helps individuals develop practical skills in layout planning, 3D modeling, and project management, while also learning about client needs and industry trends. It serves as a valuable introduction to careers in architecture, interior design, and related disciplines.

What is the difference between Spatial Design Internship vs Interior Design Internship?

AspectSpatial Design InternshipInterior Design Internship
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in architecture, interior design, or related fieldsUsually students or recent graduates in interior design or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, architectural firms, or urban planning projectsInterior design firms, showrooms, or client sites
Industry UsageCommonly used in architecture, urban planning, and large-scale design projectsPrimarily in residential, commercial, and hospitality interior projects
Search & Comparison IntentPeople exploring internships in spatial or architectural designIndividuals interested in interior design internships

While both internships involve design principles, a Spatial Design Internship focuses on the broader spatial environment, including architecture and urban spaces, whereas an Interior Design Internship centers on interior aesthetics and functionality. Understanding these differences helps candidates choose the right internship aligned with their career goals.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect during a spatial design internship?

As a Spatial Design Intern, you'll typically assist with a variety of projects ranging from conceptualizing layouts for interior spaces to supporting 3D modeling and visualization tasks. You may help prepare presentation materials, participate in site visits, and collaborate closely with architects, designers, and clients to develop creative solutions. Interns often gain hands-on experience with industry-standard software, learn about project workflows, and contribute to both the creative and technical aspects of spatial design. This role offers valuable exposure to real-world projects and can help you build a strong portfolio for future opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a spatial design intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Spatial Design Intern, you typically need a background in architecture, interior design, or a related field, along with a strong portfolio demonstrating creative spatial solutions. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, Rhino, and Adobe Creative Suite is often required. Strong communication, collaboration, and attention to detail are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are essential for effectively contributing to design projects, interpreting client needs, and working within multidisciplinary teams.
What are the most commonly searched types of Spatial Design jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Spatial Design jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Spatial Design Internship jobs in Chicago, IL? For Spatial Design Internship jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Spatial Design Internship jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Spatial Design Internship jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Spatial Design Internship jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Spatial Design Internship job openings:
Infographic showing various Spatial Design Internship job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,519 per year, or $20 per hour.

Early-Career Water Resources Engineer

Geosyntec Consultants, Inc.

Oak Brook, IL • On-site

$79K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Do you want to build an impactful career to change the world for the better? 

Geosyntec has an exciting opportunity for an Early-Career Water Resources Engineer in our Oak Brook, IL office. This position is well suited for a water resources professional with hands-on experience in hydrologic, hydraulic, groundwater, and pollutant transport modeling; spatial data analysis and visualization; field monitoring; and technical reporting. The role will provide opportunities to apply civil, environmental, and water resources engineering knowledge to address real-world water quality, stormwater, watershed, and contaminant control challenges, including projects related to National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs), Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs), data analysis, sampling, and reporting, while also building the consulting and client service skills needed for long-term career growth.

Geosyntec is an innovative, international engineering and consulting firm serving private and public-sector clients to address new ventures and complex problems involving our environment, natural resources, and civil infrastructure. Our engineers, scientists, technical and project employees serve our clients from offices across the world. Ranked by ENR as one of the top environmental engineering design firms, Geosyntec is internationally known for its technical leadership, broad experience, and exceptional client service.

We invest in our people.  Each employee is unique, and your career at Geosyntec will be too.  We offer competitive pay and benefits, and well-being programs to support you and your family.

To Learn More Visit: http://www.geosyntec.com/careers/.


  • Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams of engineers, scientists, clients, agencies, and stakeholders on water resources, stormwater, water quality, contaminant fate and transport, and remediation-related projects.
  • Developing, calibrating, and evaluating hydrologic, hydraulic, groundwater, and pollutant transport models for watersheds, stream systems, stormwater infrastructure, surface-groundwater systems, and contaminated sites.
  • Applying tools such as EPA-SWMM, SWAT, HEC-RAS, EFDC, and related modeling platforms to support water quality, flooding, nutrient management, and remediation evaluations.
  • Processing, organizing, and analyzing spatial, land cover, soil, climate, hydrologic, groundwater, and water quality datasets using GIS, Python, and statistical methods.
  • Preparing maps, figures, 2D/3D visualizations, model inputs, and technical graphics to communicate complex water resources and contaminant transport findings.
  • Conducting field investigations, including surface water, sediment, and sampling; installation and maintenance of monitoring equipment; and surveying activities.
  • Managing, evaluating, and summarizing monitoring data, model results, and scenario analyses for technical teams, clients, stakeholders, and regulatory audiences.
  • Reviewing state and federal regulations, permits, and technical guidance related to surface water, groundwater, stormwater, water quality, and contaminant control.
  • Preparing technical reports, memoranda, presentations, and other client-ready deliverables.
  • Drive personal, company, and rental vehicles to client or company project or office sites, and other business locations, as needed.

  • Bachelor’s degree in environmental, water resources, hydraulic, or civil engineering; natural resources science; or a closely related field. (required)
  • Advanced degree in environmental engineering, water resources science, civil engineering, or a related engineering discipline. (preferred)
  • Engineer-in-Training (E.I.T.) certification, or ability to obtain, where applicable. (preferred)

  • At least 2 years of related academic, research, internship, or professional experience in water resources, environmental engineering, hydrologic/hydraulic modeling, water quality modeling, groundwater modeling, or contaminant fate and transport. (preferred)
  • Experience with hydrologic, hydraulic, groundwater, and pollutant transport modeling tools such as EPA-SWMM, SWAT, HEC-RAS and EFDC, MODFLOW, MODPATH, MT3D, SWAT, PHREEQC, PFLOTRAN, or similar platforms. (preferred)
  • Proficiency using GIS and spatial analysis tools such as ArcGIS Pro, QGIS, GeoPandas, Rasterio, Google Earth Engine, or similar applications to develop model inputs, maps, and data visualizations. (required)
  • Programming and data analysis experience using Python and/or R, including tools for data processing, statistical analysis, model support, visualization, or automation. (preferred)
  • Experience using scripting, automation, machine learning, data science, or cloud-based workflows to support environmental modeling and analytics. (preferred)
  • Experience developing technical figures, maps, and 2D/3D visualizations using tools such as EVS, Adobe Illustrator, GIS platforms, or related visualization software. (preferred)
  • Field experience with surface water, sampling; installation or maintenance of gauges, piezometers, pressure transducers, or dataloggers; and survey methods. (preferred)
  • Ability and willingness to perform fieldwork and travel. (required)
  • Strong technical writing, presentation, communication, data interpretation, and problem-solving skills, including experience preparing reports, manuscripts, conference presentations, or agency/stakeholder-facing materials. (required)
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite. (required)
  • Valid U.S. driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record for business travel. (required)

This opportunity will be posted for at least five days. Below are the potential compensation ranges that we in good faith believe are applicable for this role at the time of this posting and are only applicable for jobs to be performed in the specified location(s) below. The typical base salary range for this position is just one component of Geosyntec’s total compensation package for employees. Actual compensation will be determined based on education, experience, skill set and location.

  • Minimum Salary: $70,520/year / Maximum Salary: $102,080/year (Oakbrook, IL)

We offer a comprehensive benefits package to all eligible employees including, 9 paid holidays, 2 floating holidays, a minimum of 8 sick days, and a minimum of 11 vacation days per year, in line with state or federal requirements. Employees (and their families) are offered medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, 401(k), a variety of leaves of absences and other benefits to eligible employees.

#LI-TH1

#LI-Onsite