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Structural Engineer Intern Jobs in Suffolk, VA (NOW HIRING)

Structural Engineer Intern information

See Suffolk, VA salary details

$10

$18

$28

How much do structural engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural engineer intern in Suffolk, VA is $18.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $19.90 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 Suffolk, VA? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Suffolk, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Structural Engineer Intern jobs in Suffolk, VA? For Structural Engineer Intern jobs in Suffolk, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Structural Engineer Intern jobs in Suffolk, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Structural Engineer Intern jobs in Suffolk, VA are:
What cities near Suffolk, VA are hiring for Structural Engineer Intern jobs? Cities near Suffolk, VA with the most Structural Engineer Intern job openings:
STRUCTURAL/CIVIL ENGINEER SKILLBRIDGE INTERN(PLANT OPERATIONS

STRUCTURAL/CIVIL ENGINEER SKILLBRIDGE INTERN(PLANT OPERATIONS

HII

Newport News, VA

$16 - $20.75/hr

Full-time, Internship

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


Huntington Ingalls Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Huntington Ingalls Industries

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 74,403 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

STRUCTURAL/CIVIL ENGINEER SKILLBRIDGE INTERN(PLANT OPERATIONS
Location:
Newport News, Virginia, United States
Date: Jul 18, 2026
Req ID: 43129
Team: K21 TALENT ACQUISITION
Entity: Newport News Shipbuilding
US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes
Full-Time
Shift: 1st
Relocation: No relocation assistance available
Virtual/Telework Opportunity: No - Not eligible for telework
Travel Requirement: No
Clearance Required: No - Clearance Not Required to Start
Meet HII's Newport News Shipbuilding
With more than 25,000 employees - including third-, fourth- and even fifth-generation shipbuilders - HII's Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division is the largest industrial employer in Virginia. We're the sole designer, builder and refueler of U.S. Navy nuclear aircraft carriers and one of two providers of U.S. Navy nuclear submarines. Our diverse and innovative team of professionals ranges from skilled trades to project managers, engineers and software developers to solution architects, technical subject matter experts, and system users. Anchored in our rich, 135-year history, we collaborate together at the forefront of technology, manufacturing, and integration of the most powerful and survivable naval ships in the world. Want to be part of the team? Apply today! We look forward to meeting you.
The Role
This is an UNPAID internship through the Hire Vets Now (HVN) SkillBridge Program for transitioning active-duty US military personnel. HVN SkillBridge Internships are available to help transitioning active-duty military personnel gain real-world experience in the work force sometime during their final 180 days of active-duty service. The intern will actively train on meaningful projects and work closely with a mentor and with senior company leadership. Newport News Shipbuilding Internship programs are focused on placing transitioning military into internships that require KSAs, Education & Military Training similar to their current or previous military jobs; positions that could easily transition over to a full-time regular and permanent job with Newport News Shipbuilding.
Structural/Civil Engineer 43129
Analyzes, researches and develops structural engineering specifications involving metals, non-metallic or composite structural materials for product design, or operation of product to include structures, mechanical, hydraulic, electrical and electronics, power plant, armament, heating and ventilating, equipment and maintenance designs. Analyzes damage tolerance, durability, design allowable and structural modeling. Specific structural engineering specialties may include dynamics and loads, stability and stress fatigue and thermal analysis. Tools utilized may include CATIA, IDEAS, ProEngineer and a variety of software applications.
Newport News Shipbuilding requires a Bachelor's Degree in engineering from an ABET accredited program.
Must Have
Active-Duty Military ONLY within final 180 days of active-duty service. Transitioning Military candidates can begin applying within final 12 months of military service. Education and Experience dependent on Program of Instruction.
Why HII
We build the world's most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. HII's diverse workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals.
Recognized as one of America's top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you'll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career.
Working at HII is more than a job - it's an opportunity to build a future. We offer comprehensive benefits including: medical, prescription drug, dental and vision plan choices, on-site health centers, tele-medicine, wellness resources, employee assistance programs, savings plan options (401K), financial education and planning tools, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts, early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships, and more. Some benefits may vary depending on your specific division or work location.
Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law. U.S. Citizenship may be required for certain positions.
Do You Need Assistance?
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to buildyourcareer@hii-co.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this e-mail address.
Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #2 for Newport News Shipbuilding.

Working at Huntington Ingalls Industries

About Huntington Ingalls Industries, in their own words

From Huntington Ingalls Industries

Our 44,000-strong team includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence and machine learning experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals. Recognized as one of America's top large employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Here you'll find a collaborative environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs that span our shipbuilding apprentice schools in Virginia and Mississippi to tuition reimbursement programs that support continual career growth at every stage of your career.

Our values of integrity, safety, respect, engagement, responsibility and performance are the foundation of HII's ethical culture that inspires employees to do the right thing each day, regardless of the circumstances.


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