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Summer Engineering Internship Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

2025 - Summer Intern Co-op Conversion

Clinton, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Functional Talent Scouts (function or engineering subfunction), who are CC03 or higher employees ... S. Early Careers Interns/Co-ops (salaried students). Please note - this is a generic requisition ...

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Summer Engineering Internship information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$18

$27

How much do summer engineering internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer engineering internship in Iowa is $18.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $19.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a summer engineering intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Summer Engineering Intern, you need a foundational understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving skills, and coursework in your chosen engineering discipline. Familiarity with CAD software, programming languages, or lab equipment—depending on the field—as well as experience with tools like MATLAB or SolidWorks, is often expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn help interns stand out and integrate quickly into project teams. These skills and qualities are important for contributing meaningfully to projects, adapting to new challenges, and maximizing the learning experience during the internship.

What types of projects does a summer engineering intern typically work on, and how much autonomy do they have?

Summer Engineering Interns are often assigned to support ongoing projects alongside experienced engineers, working on tasks such as data analysis, prototyping, testing, or process improvements. Interns usually have defined responsibilities within a project team, but they are also encouraged to contribute ideas and take initiative on small assignments under supervision. The level of autonomy can grow as interns demonstrate reliability and technical competence, allowing them to manage portions of a project independently while receiving regular guidance and feedback from mentors.

What is a summer engineering internship?

A Summer Engineering Internship is a temporary, often paid, position offered to students or recent graduates in engineering. These internships typically last for 8-12 weeks during the summer and provide hands-on experience in various engineering fields, such as mechanical, electrical, civil, or software engineering. Interns work on real-world projects under the supervision of experienced engineers, helping them apply classroom knowledge, develop technical skills, and explore potential career paths. Completing a summer engineering internship can also improve a student's resume and increase their chances of securing a full-time job after graduation.

What is the difference between Summer Engineering Internship vs Engineering Co-op?

AspectSummer Engineering InternshipEngineering Co-op
DurationTypically 8-12 weeks during summerUsually 4-12 months, alternating semesters
Work EnvironmentProject-based, temporary placement in industryIntegrated with academic schedule, ongoing work
CredentialsEnrolled in an engineering program, no certification requiredEnrolled in an engineering program, may require academic credit
PurposeGain industry experience, explore career optionsApply academic knowledge, earn academic credit, build long-term relationships

While both Summer Engineering Internships and Engineering Co-ops provide valuable industry experience for engineering students, internships are typically shorter, summer-only roles focused on project work. Co-ops are longer, integrated with academic schedules, and often involve multiple work terms, offering deeper industry immersion and academic credit opportunities.

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Summer Engineering Internship jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Summer Engineering Internship job openings:
Infographic showing various Summer Engineering Internship job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,734 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Summer 2026 Internship Civil Design Engineer Position

Clapsaddle Garber Assoc Inc

Marshalltown, IA • On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Full-time, Temporary, Internship

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Internship
Description
Description
Clapsaddle Garber Associates (CGA) has 2 to 4 Internship positions open in 2026 within our Ackley, Des Moines, and Marshalltown offices.
Internships are about gaining real world experiences. At CGA, you are treated like a full-time Team member. Our Internship Program is progressive. Your level of responsibility and experience increases each summer/semester you work for CGA.
Read what our former interns are saying about CGA...
• "I never felt like I had nothing to do, I was always being given new things and way to improve my knowledge."
• "Everyone has great energy that makes the work environment fun and exciting."
• "My favorite part of my internship was how willing people were to teach me things about their jobs and how helpful everyone was."
What will you be doing on any given day?
1. Designing/drawing plan sets and basic engineering calculations
2. Working with Surveyor Crews
3. Field construction observation and materials testing
What you need to be an intern at CGA
You must like to have fun; if work isn't fun, you are playing on the wrong team.
VISA Sponsorship is NOT available for this position. You MUST be able to work in the United States without any visa.
Requirements
  • Be pursuing a Civil Engineering degree,
  • Have basic knowledge of computerized office equipment and programs,
  • Have strong communication skills; written, verbal and listening comprehension,
  • Have a valid driver's license and good driving record