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Structural Engineering Intern Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Intern

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$22 - $25/hr

GEI's Chicago, Illinois office is seeking a Civil Engineer intern to work on a variety of projects ... structural condition assessments, geotechnical and environmental logging and sampling, etc ...

Mechanical Engineering Co-Op Student

Batavia, IL ยท On-site

$21.26 - $25.93/hr

Projects may include structural design, mechatronics, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenics ... Knowledge of Mechanical Engineering theory * Skills in CAD and Microsoft Office * Must be able to ...

High School Summer Intern At SOM, we are a collective committed to shaping a better future for our ... structural & sustainable engineering, urban planning, graphic design, or interior design. Spend the ...

Providing structural, diagnostics, civil, traffic, parking, transportation, enclosure, WPM technology and construction engineering services, we design solutions that are cost- and resource-efficient ...

Substation Protection and Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$101K - $129K/yr

We have a Mid to Senior level substation engineering for the positions located in our Chicago, IL ... Engineer Intern ("EI" or "EIT") professional certification. * Professional Engineer ("PE") License.

Substation Protection and Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site +1

$101K - $129K/yr

We have a Mid to Senior level substation engineering for the positions located in our Chicago, IL ... Engineer Intern ("EI" or "EIT") professional certification. * Professional Engineer ("PE") License.

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Structural Engineering Intern information

See Illinois salary details

$10

$18

$28

How much do structural engineering intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural engineering intern in Illinois is $18.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $20.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a structural engineer intern do?

A structural engineering intern assists with designing, analyzing, and reviewing building structures under the supervision of licensed engineers. They may use software like AutoCAD or Revit and help prepare reports, drawings, and calculations to support construction projects. The role provides hands-on experience in structural analysis, design principles, and construction documentation.

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

As a structural engineering 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 are more common in senior positions, specialized consulting, or project management roles within the field.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Structural Engineering Intern typically expect to be involved with during their internship?

As a Structural Engineering Intern, you can expect to assist with tasks such as drafting design plans, performing basic structural calculations, and preparing technical reports under the supervision of licensed engineers. Interns often work on real-world projects like building renovations, bridge assessments, or new construction, gaining hands-on experience with industry-standard software and codes. Collaboration is common, as you'll interact with architects, senior engineers, and construction teams to ensure project objectives are met. This internship provides an excellent opportunity to develop both technical skills and professional communication abilities in a supportive environment.

Is a 3.0 GPA good for internships?

For a structural engineering intern position, a 3.0 GPA is generally considered acceptable, especially if combined with relevant coursework, technical skills, and practical experience. Many employers value hands-on skills and project work alongside GPA, but a higher GPA can improve competitiveness for competitive internships.

What does a Structural Engineering Intern do?

A Structural Engineering Intern assists professional engineers in designing, analyzing, and inspecting structures such as buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure projects. Their tasks often include drafting plans, performing calculations, preparing reports, and helping ensure projects comply with safety and building codes. Interns may also visit construction sites, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and use engineering software to support design work. The goal of the internship is to gain hands-on experience and understand the practical aspects of structural engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Structural Engineering Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Structural Engineering Intern, you need a foundational understanding of structural analysis, engineering principles, and coursework toward a degree in civil or structural engineering. Familiarity with AutoCAD, Revit, and structural analysis software, as well as knowledge of building codes, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and a willingness to learn help interns excel in team environments and adapt to project demands. These competencies ensure interns can contribute meaningfully to design tasks, support senior engineers, and develop the technical expertise needed for future roles.

Is there a high demand for structural engineers?

The demand for structural engineers remains strong due to ongoing infrastructure projects, urban development, and the need for building safety. Employment is expected to grow at a steady rate, and skills in design software and building codes enhance job prospects for structural engineering interns and professionals alike.
What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineering jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Structural Engineering jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Structural Engineering Intern jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Structural Engineering Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Structural Engineering Intern job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,930 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
Intern

$22 - $25/hr

Internship

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Description
Your role at GEI.
GEI's Chicago, Illinois office is seeking a Civil Engineer intern to work on a variety of projects to support our ongoing office and field work.
Essential Responsibilities & Duties
  • Perform field work as needed to support projects, including but not limited to, field observation and data collection, pavement and structural condition assessments, geotechnical and environmental logging and sampling, etc.
  • Assist with project drafting in AutoCAD
  • Convert field information to final drawings
  • Preparation of technical memos, reports, construction plans and specifications

Minimum Qualifications
  • Pursuit of a bachelor's or master's degree in Civil Engineering, with an expected graduation date of 2027 preferred.
  • Prior internship experience, or other professional position, strongly preferred.
  • Willingness to travel on temporary assignments as needed.
  • Experience with software such as AutoCAD or Civil 3D is a plus.
  • Physical ability to perform field work in summer and winter conditions.
  • Valid U.S. driver's license.

We are GEI.
Some of the world's most pressing problems - from climate change to sustainable development, to critical infrastructure and the future of our energy supply - need our brightest and diverse minds working together to create safer, more resilient communities for tomorrow.
We are technical experts, collaborators, and entrepreneurs who draw from diverse backgrounds to solve our clients' most complex challenges.
With several offices across North America, we offer a range of engineering, science, and technical consulting services. Our range of expertise, project types, and culture make us the choice for top talent in the AEC industry. See all our office locations here.
Employee-owned. Employee-focused.
As an employee-owned company, our employees support our flat leadership structure, have a say in how our business operates and benefit from our financial success. We are committed to employee growth with career development opportunities, competitive total rewards, a well-being program, flexible work arrangements and more. Our company culture is driven by our 4 Cs - we are Client-Centered, Curious, Collaborative, and Community Minded - which support our focus on sustainability, safety, diversity, equity and inclusion. Get to know us better by visiting GEI's career site here.
GEI's Total Rewards Package Includes
  • Market-Competitive Compensation
  • Pay Range For This Position: $22.00 - $25.00/hour
  • Connecting Conversation Program with a Focus on Professional Development and Opportunities for Advancement
  • Rewards and Recognition
  • A Vibrant Culture that is Focused on Partnership, Sustainability, Giving Back to Our Communities and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
  • For Some Positions, Hybrid Work Schedules Are Available
  • And More...

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Functional Demands:
Sedentary
x
Light
Medium
Other
Activity Level Throughout Workday (check one per row)
Physical Activity Requirements
Occasional
(0-35% of day)
Frequent
(33-66% of day)
Continuous
(67-100% of day)
Not Applicable
Sitting
X (4+ hours)
Standing
X (1-2 hours)
Walking
X (1-2 hours)
Climbing
X
Lifting (floor to waist level) (in pounds)
(0-25 lbs)
Lifting (waist level and above) (in pounds)
(0-25 lbs)
Carrying objects
X
Push/pull
X
Twisting
X
Bending
X
Reaching forward
X
Reaching overhead
X
Squat/kneel/crawl
X
Wrist position deviation
X
Pinching/fine motor skills
X
Keyboard use/repetitive motion
X (4+ hours)
Taste or smell
X
Talk or hear
X
Accurate 20/40
Very Accurate 20/20
Not Applicable
Near Vision
X
Far Vision
X
Yes
No
Not Applicable
Color Discrimination
X
Sensory Requirements
Minimal
Moderate
Accurate
Not Applicable
Depth perception
X
Hearing
X
Environment Requirements
Occupational Exposure Risk Potential
Reasonably Anticipated
Not Anticipated
Blood borne pathogens
X
Chemical
X
Airborne communicable diseases
X
Extreme temperatures
X
Radiation
X
Uneven surfaces or elevations
X
Extreme noise levels
X
Dust/particulate matter
X
GEI is an AA/equal opportunity employer, including disabled and veterans.