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Structural Engineer Intern Jobs in Riverside, CA

Plant Engineering Manager

Ontario, CA ยท On-site

$118K - $168K/yr

... structural maintenance compressed air systems and water farm systems. * Develop monitoring systems ... intern, and seasonal team members are offered a limited benefits package. * Paid Time Off for ...

Plant Engineering Manager

Ontario, CA ยท On-site

$118K - $168K/yr

... structural maintenance compressed air systems and water farm systems. * Develop monitoring systems ... intern, and seasonal team members are offered a limited benefits package. * Paid Time Off for ...

Structural Engineer Intern information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$11

$20

$30

How much do structural engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural engineer intern in Riverside, CA is $20.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $21.83 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 Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Structural Engineer Intern jobs in Riverside, CA? For Structural Engineer Intern jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Structural Engineer Intern jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Structural Engineer Intern jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Structural Engineer Intern jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Structural Engineer Intern job openings:
Entry Level - Structural Designer

Entry Level - Structural Designer

KPFF Consulting Engineers

Irvine, CA โ€ข On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Company Description

At KPFF Consulting Engineers, we are more than just an engineering design firm. For over 60 years, we have dedicated ourselves to innovative, sustainable engineering that shapes the built environment and tackles complex infrastructure challenges. Our team culture emphasizes balance, growth, and well-being, supporting each member's professional journey with flexibility, generous benefits, and a collaborative approach to work-life integration.

With over 1,400 professionals across 27 offices nationwide, KPFF's decentralized structure allows each office the flexibility to pursue projects aligned with their regional strengths. Learn more at www.kpff.com.

Job Description

KPFF is looking for full-time structural engineering professionals who are self-motivated and eager to deepen their knowledge of structural engineering while gaining real-world experience.

Our engineers work in a team structure that allows frequent collaboration and connection to all layers of our organization, from interns to Principals. We foster a culture where our engineers collaborate outside of the project work through social events, educational programs and technical training. We provide numerous opportunities for professional growth, learning, and teaching. Individual accomplishments and successful projects determine your future at KPFF, and your dedication and talent will drive your career here.

This is an Exempt employment position, all overtime hours are paid at an hourly rate.

Benefits

KPFF is proud to provide our employees with benefits options that fit their unique lives, including:

  • Medical insurance options to choose from, VSP Vision Insurance, and Deltaย Dental Insurance
  • 7 paid holidays, and 2 floating holidays for you to use each year
  • 2 weeks vacation annually, with competitive seniority based accruals
  • 2 weeks of personal and sick time to care for yourself and your family membersย 
  • KPFF will contribute 3% of your base salary to your 401 (k) regardless of your contribution
  • KPFF Paid Family Leave: Provides 60% of your base salary while on an approved leave for up to 6 weeks in a rolling 12-month period
  • 40-hour work schedule, Monday through Friday
  • Flexible scheduling - core hours of collaboration are 9:30-3:30 PMย 
  • Those who earn their CA PE or SE at KPFF receive a licensing bonus in addition to testing fee reimbursement
  • Monthly Cell Phone stipend
  • Monthly Way We Work stipend for remote work and transit expenses
  • Semi-annual Bonusesย 
  • Opportunities for educational events, relationship building, and fun!ย 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Basic knowledge of engineering fundamentals
  • Excellent interpersonal communication and professional demeanor
  • Effectively work on a team with individuals of varying backgrounds and experiences
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
  • Solid technical skills
  • Ability to independently plan, document, organize, and engage in problem solving
  • Excellent research and information gathering skills

Salary

The pay range is $80,000 - $90,000 salary depending on education

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

  • BS in Civil Engineering (with an emphasis in Structures)
  • Transcripts must show completed courses in: Concrete,ย Steel, or Wood Design
  • No full-time work experience is required

Preferred Qualifications

  • 3.0 Cumulative GPA or above in Bachelor's coursework
  • Master's degree in Civil Engineering with an emphasis in Structures is preferred
  • Candidates with transcripts showing completed graduate coursework in:
    • Structural Design
    • Steel or Wood Design
    • Concrete
    • Seismic
  • Previous intern or full-time experience in a Structural or Civil Engineering role is preferred
  • EIT Certification
Additional Information

Application Process

If you are interested in this position, please apply on our careers page. Resumes sent elsewhere will not be considered.
Transcripts must be provided prior to an interview. Cover letter is preferable and should address the following:

  • Describe a time when you were assigned a project or task that turned out to be really difficult.ย How did you work through it, and what was the outcome?
  • Who has most influenced you and why?

Physical Demands and Work Environment

  • Duties are performed in a normal office environment while sitting at a desk or computer table.
  • Duties require the ability to actively engage with a computer for several hours per day.
  • May occasionally need to lift items up to 15 lbs.
  • Duties require in-person attendance, Monday through Friday, during our business hours of 8 AM toย 5 PM at our office in Orange County Irvine for the training period.
  • Following a satisfactory training period a hybrid schedule of 2ย days per week in the office may beย accommodated

Our Employees

Are valued and empowered, collaborative and team oriented, innovative in their approach and passionate about their work. They are reliable, trustworthy, and open with a high level of integrity. They value diversity, are inclusive and are committed to critically thinking through problems and finding solutions.

KPFF Consulting Engineers participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

KPFF Consulting Engineers is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ethnicity, national origin, religion, marital status, sex/gender (including sexual orientation or gender identity), pregnancy, veteran status, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, or any other protected basis.