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Structural Engineer Intern Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

RK&K has an immediate need for an experienced, career-minded Structural Engineer/Bridge Inspector ... Engineer Intern (EI) license required * NBIS Bridge Inspection Training - NHI Courses 130055 ...

... structural repairs for bridges and marine structures * Plan, schedule, and conduct bridge ... Engineer Intern (EI) certification or ability to obtain within one year * ADCI Commercial Diver ...

... structural repairs for bridges and marine structures * Plan, schedule, and conduct bridge ... Engineer Intern (EI) certification or ability to obtain within one year * ADCI Commercial Diver ...

Structural Engineer Intern information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$10

$17

$27

How much do structural engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural engineer intern in Columbia, SC is $17.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 do structural engineer interns do?

Structural engineer interns assist in analyzing and designing building structures under the supervision of licensed engineers. They may perform calculations, prepare drawings, and review project plans using engineering software, gaining practical experience in structural analysis and construction processes.

Is 22 too old for an internship?

There is no age limit for a structural engineer intern position; internships are often designed for students or early-career individuals. Being 22 is common for interns, especially those pursuing or recently completed relevant education or certifications in engineering. Age should not be a barrier if you meet the educational or skill requirements for the internship.

Is $20 an hour good for an internship?

For a Structural Engineer Intern, $20 an hour is generally considered competitive for entry-level internships, especially if it includes opportunities to gain experience with engineering software like AutoCAD or Revit. However, pay rates can vary based on location, company size, and industry standards, so comparing with local internship averages is advisable.

Can you make $500,000 as a civil engineer?

As a structural engineer intern, earning $500,000 is unlikely, as internships typically offer lower compensation. Experienced civil or structural engineers with advanced skills, certifications, and leadership roles in large projects can reach high salaries, but such earnings are generally achieved after several years of experience and professional development. High salaries in civil engineering are often associated with senior positions, specialized expertise, or working in high-cost regions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Structural Engineer Intern jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Structural Engineer Intern job openings:

Entry-Level Forensic Civil/Structural Engineer (EI/EIT) (56980)

ATS FAMILY

Columbia, SC

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

U.S. Forensic, LLC, an ATS Family of Companies, assists commercial and industrial clients by performing forensic evaluations, reporting, and expert witness testimony. The firm’s capabilities include accident reconstruction; structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering; fire origin and cause; and environmental services. U.S. Forensic tailors its consulting engineering services to meet each client’s unique needs, and its experienced forensic engineers and investigators support a wide range of industries. As part of the ATS family, the company also offers expanded capabilities in testing, inspection, and calibration when a broader scope of services is required.

Applied Technical Services, LLC (ATS) is a leading provider of critical testing, inspection, certification, and compliance services. ATS serves clients across a diverse set of large and stable end markets, including manufacturing, power generation, aerospace, medical, and defense. The company was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Marietta, GA. Today, ATS employs nearly 2,100 team members across more than 95 locations throughout the United States.

Together, U.S. Forensic and ATS are driven by a shared purpose to create a safe and reliable world, delivering assurance through precise technical and professional services.

Job Title: Entry- Level Forensic Civil/Structural Engineer (EI/EIT)

Position Type: Full-Time

Preferred Location:  This role requires candidates to be based in, or willing to relocate to, one of the following locations: Houston or San Antonio, Texas; or Charlotte, North Carolina, or Columbia, South Carolina.

Job Overview: U.S. Forensic is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Engineer to specialize in Forensic engineering. The successful candidate will play a key role in assisting in the investigation of buildings and other structures for failures, construction defects, and other forensic engineering matters. This position requires a strong background in principles of structural engineering and typical construction practices and will require frequent travel to and from site investigations.

This role also offers a clear path to Professional Engineer (PE) licensure through hands-on experience and mentorship.

Responsibilities:

  • Conduct detailed forensic investigations of structural failures and construction defects.
  • Perform site inspections and gather relevant data to support forensic analysis.
  • Utilize engineering principles and practices to analyze and assess structural issues.
  • Prepare clear and concise technical reports outlining findings and conclusions.
  • Provide expert testimony in legal proceedings when required.
  • Stay current with industry trends, codes, and standards related to structural engineering.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering.
  • Licensed Engineer Intern (EI or EIT) required.
  • Ability to travel multiple days of each week (local travel as well as regional air travel)
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and meet deadlines.

Benefits:

ATS offers excellent wages and advancement opportunities. ATS full-time employee benefits include: competitive pay, medical, dental, vision, short term disability, long term disability, life insurance, 401k with matching contribution, quarterly bonus opportunity, tuition reimbursement, paid training, paid holidays, and a generous paid time off/vacation package.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Applied Technical Services is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer encouraging diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability unrelated to ability, marital status, family responsibilities, pregnancy, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, transgender, sex stereotyping, order of protection status, protected veteran or military status, or an unfavorable discharge from military service, and other categories protected by federal, state or local law.

Please note, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party agencies. Resumes submitted without an active agreement and prior coordination with our Talent team will not be eligible for placement fees.