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Structural Engineer Intern Jobs in Champaign, IL

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Structural Engineer Intern information

See Champaign, IL salary details

$11

$19

$29

How much do structural engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural engineer intern 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a structural engineer intern?

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 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 Champaign, IL?

The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Structural Engineer Intern jobs in Champaign, IL?

For Structural Engineer Intern jobs in Champaign, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Structural Engineer Intern jobs in Champaign, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Structural Engineer Intern jobs in Champaign, IL are:

What cities near Champaign, IL are hiring for Structural Engineer Intern jobs?

Cities near Champaign, IL with the most Structural Engineer Intern job openings:

Structural Engineer Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Structural Engineer Intern job openings in Champaign, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,233 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Structural Engineering Intern

MSA Professional Services, Inc.

Champaign, IL • On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Full-time, Internship

Re-posted 12 days ago

MSA Professional Services rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 453 rated engineering

Job description

Overview
About the Opportunity
We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Structural Engineering Intern to join our team. This position offers the chance to work on the structural design of commercial and institutional buildings, while gaining valuable real-world experience under the mentorship of licensed engineers and senior technicians. This role is onsite in our Champaign, IL office.
MSA internships are typically at least 12 weeks in duration, ranging from mid-May 2027 to mid-August 2027, with start/exit dates confirmed later in the hiring process. For engineering students seeking consulting experience with building projects, this is the position for you! Additionally, an internship at MSA provides you with a collaborative environment across the firm among the 40 interns each summer.
Why Join Us
  • Work on meaningful projects that improve building performance, comfort and sustainability.
  • Mentorship from experienced mechanical engineers.
  • Exposure to a collaborative and supportive workplace culture.
  • Opportunity to build professional skills and explore a career in building systems design.

Please note that MSA receives an extremely high volume of applicants for our internship listings, and we appreciate your patience. The team will be in touch as soon as possible. Even if you applied online, the team encourages you to visit the MSA career fair booth if visiting your campus this fall.
Responsibilities
What you will do:
  • Assist in the design and drafting of plumbing systems, including domestic water, sanitary, and specialty piping systems.
  • Prepare drawings, layouts, and construction documents using CAD/Revit software.
  • Support in performing calculations for system sizing, equipment selection, and code compliance.
  • Collaborate with engineers and designers to integrate plumbing systems into overall building projects.
  • Participate in site visits to observe installations and learn about construction practices.

Qualifications
What you bring:
  • Current enrollment in a Civil or Structural Engineering (or related) bachelor's program.
  • Strong interest in plumbing systems and building design.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, or similar design software preferred.
  • Solid understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.
  • Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
  • The selected candidate must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. without requiring visa sponsorship now or in the future. We are unable to provide or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this role.

Why MSA?
  • Better Together: A collaborative environment that values open ideas, diversity, and authenticity. Our diverse perspectives fuel innovation and success in our employee-owned firm.
  • Multi-disciplinary Opportunities: Follow your interests, explore new experiences, and apply your skills where they have the most impact.
  • We've Got Your Back: Enjoy support when you need it and independence when you don't. We are 500+ strong, working as one cohesive team.
  • Passion & Purpose: We're passionate about our work and proud of it! Share inspirations, "geek out," and think big with us.
  • Pay & Perks: Competitive pay and unique perks that make MSA stand out.
  • Communities of Practice: Our think tanks and idea generators-regular collaboration and learning opportunities.
  • Work-Life Integration: Life doesn't stop when work begins. We support your professional and personal balance.
  • Commitment to Learning: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and cutting-edge technology to keep you connected and creative.
  • Community Engagement: Giving back through volunteering, education, STEM outreach, and event participation, backed by corporate sponsorship and donations.

The salary for this position ranges from $23 to $27 per year commensurate with experience. Higher compensation within this range will be paid to candidates with significant experience and exceptional qualifications.
MSA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. At MSA, we value a diverse, inclusive workforce and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual's race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. If you are unable to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at hr@msa-ps.com
Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

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