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Structural Engineer Intern Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Engineering Intern

Fremont, CA ยท On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

The Manufacturing Engineering Intern will support the development and optimization of process flows ... structural, electrical, and digital solutions for utility-scale power plants. Our comprehensive ...

Manufacturing Engineering Intern

Fremont, CA ยท On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

The Manufacturing Engineering Intern will support the development and optimization of process flows ... structural, electrical, and digital solutions for utility-scale power plants. Our comprehensive ...

... structural engineering and land surveying firm with over 45 years of experience. We work on ... Site Design Intern - Primary Responsibilities: On any given day our co-op students could be working ...

Staff Engineer

Pleasanton, CA ยท On-site

$32 - $35/hr

We provide expert high-performance earthquake + structural engineering and disaster mitigation ... Intern experience and/or Cal Poly-Miyamoto SESH desirable * Basic structural analysis and design ...

... structural parts and forged wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a ... The Engineering Intern effectively assists Manufacturing Management with various productivity ...

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Structural Engineer Intern information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do structural engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural engineer intern 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Structural Engineer Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Structural Engineer Intern, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, mathematics, and physics, often supported by progress toward a civil or structural engineering degree. Familiarity with technical tools like AutoCAD, Revit, and structural analysis software, as well as knowledge of building codes and standards, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication help interns collaborate with team members and convey complex ideas clearly. These skills and qualities are important for ensuring safety, accuracy, and successful project outcomes in structural engineering roles.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as a Structural Engineer Intern?

As a Structural Engineer Intern, you will typically assist with the design, analysis, and review of structural components for buildings, bridges, or other infrastructure projects. Your daily tasks may include preparing drawings using CAD software, running basic calculations, conducting site visits with experienced engineers, and helping to ensure compliance with safety codes and regulations. You'll often collaborate closely with senior engineers and other interns, gaining exposure to multiple project phases and disciplines. This hands-on experience is valuable for building your technical skills and understanding real-world engineering workflows.

What does a Structural Engineer Intern do?

A Structural Engineer Intern assists experienced engineers in designing, analyzing, and inspecting structures such as buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. Their responsibilities often include creating computer-aided design (CAD) drawings, performing calculations, preparing reports, and attending site visits. Interns gain hands-on experience with engineering software and learn about building codes, construction materials, and project management, all under the supervision of licensed engineers. This role provides valuable insight into the daily tasks and challenges of structural engineering and helps interns develop practical skills for their future careers.

What is the difference between Structural Engineer Intern vs Civil Engineering Intern?

AspectStructural Engineer InternCivil Engineering Intern
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing a bachelor's or master's in structural or civil engineering; some internships require EIT/FE exam eligibilitySimilar educational background; often pursuing civil engineering degrees; EIT/FE exam eligibility beneficial
Work EnvironmentDesigning, analyzing, and reviewing structural components; working on building frameworks and infrastructureBroader civil projects including transportation, water resources, and site development
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, architecture firmsEngineering firms, government agencies, construction companies

Both roles involve engineering fundamentals and internships in related fields. A Structural Engineer Intern focuses specifically on structural design and analysis, while a Civil Engineering Intern covers a wider range of civil projects. The choice depends on your career focus within civil engineering.

What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Structural Engineer Intern jobs? Cities in California with the most Structural Engineer Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Structural Engineer Intern job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 29% Internship, 50% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 7% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,648 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Mechanical Engineering Intern (Summer 2026)

Grid Aero

San Leandro, CA โ€ข On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Temporary

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Mechanical Engineering Intern (Summer 2026)
Company: Grid.aero
Location: Onsite 5 days/week [San Leandro, CA]
About Grid.aero
Grid.aero is building the next generation of autonomous aviation systems for defense and commercial applications. Led by experienced aerospace and technology operators and backed by leading venture investors, we solve hard operational problems at the intersection of autonomy, resilient logistics, and scalable air mobility. We move quickly, operate with urgency, and build systems designed for real-world deployment where small teams own meaningful problems end-to-end.
Read this, we mean it โ†’ Above all, we look for exceptional builders with deep internal drive, massive throughput, hopeless optimism, and a relentless growth mindset. The people who thrive at Grid operate with urgency, learn quickly, adapt fast, and are energized by hard problems with no obvious answers. We value individuals who continuously push themselves and the team around them to improve.
This is an opportunity to work on products with national and global impact alongside a collaborative team that values technical excellence, execution, and mission focus.
Role Overview:
We are seeking a Mechanical Engineering Intern (Summer 2026) to support the development of structures and mechanical systems for our family of autonomous cargo aircraft. This role offers a rare opportunity to work hands-on on real flight hardware while collaborating closely with experienced aerospace founders and a small, highly capable engineering team.
As an intern at an early-stage company, you'll gain exposure across the full product lifecycle - from early design and analysis through fabrication, integration, and test. You'll have direct access to leadership, meaningful ownership of scoped engineering work, and the chance to make tangible contributions to an aircraft program moving toward flight.
If you're excited about building real aerospace hardware, learning fast, and contributing to something ambitious, this internship is for you.
What You'll Do:
  • Scope: Support the design and development of aircraft structures and mechanical systems, which may include airframe components, landing gear, flight controls, propulsion installations, payload systems, and other flight-critical hardware.
    Projects may include:
    • Developing Static and Dynamic Structural Test Fixtures
    • Developing Payload System Mock-Ups
    • Developing Fuel Tank and System Mock-Ups
    • Planning, Executing, and Reporting Fastened Joint Fatigue Tests
    • Planning, Executing, and Reporting Accelerated Corrosion Tests
    • Performing aerodynamic and structural trade studies
    • 3D Scanning of Components
    • Updating Material/Hardware Libraries in PDM
    • Developing Military/Civil Certification Requirement/Compliance Matrices
  • Collaborate: Work closely with systems, aerodynamic, mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to understand requirements, evaluate trade studies, and solve multidisciplinary engineering problems.
  • Design: Create CAD models, layouts, and simple assemblies for mechanical systems and structures, applying first-principles engineering and guidance from senior engineers.
  • Build: Assist with sourcing parts and materials, and support fabrication, assembly, and integration of mechanical hardware.
  • Test: Help prepare and execute ground and flight test activities, including test setup, instrumentation, data collection, and post-test documentation.
  • Document & Communicate: Produce clear documentation such as CAD models, drawings, analysis summaries, test reports, and design review materials.
  • Support: Support aircraft structures and mechanical systems through integration and testing, helping troubleshoot issues and iterate on designs.
  • Improve: Contribute to the development of engineering documentation, best practices, and standard operating procedures as the company scales.

Key Qualifications:
  • Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
  • Strong foundation in core mechanical engineering fundamentals (e.g., statics and dynamics, mechanics of materials, basic thermodynamics, manufacturing technology).
  • Experience with CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks, 3DEXPERIENCE, or similar).
  • Exposure to manufacturing processes, materials, or hands-on projects (coursework, clubs, internships, or personal projects).
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work in a collaborative team environment.
  • Ability to occasionally travel to supplier sites, manufacturing facilities, or testing locations as required.
  • U.S. work authorization required.

Compensation: $20-$30/hr
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Grid.aero is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
Legal Notice:
Grid.aero is committed to complying with U.S. export control laws. Due to the nature of our work, candidates must be U.S. persons (U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)).