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Unpaid Internship Civil Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The role - what you'll do Barr is seeking a civil engineering intern to join our Jefferson City ... Timeline: this internship opportunity runs for approximately three months starting in the summer of ...

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The role - what you'll do Barr is seeking a civil engineering intern to join our Minneapolis team ... Timeline: this internship opportunity runs for approximately three months starting in the summer of ...

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Unpaid Internship Civil Engineering information

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How much do unpaid internship civil engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for unpaid internship civil engineering in the United States is $19.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an unpaid internship in civil engineering?

Unpaid internships in civil engineering are temporary work experiences offered by companies, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations that allow students or recent graduates to gain practical skills and exposure to the field without monetary compensation. These internships typically involve assisting with tasks such as drafting, site visits, data analysis, and project support. While unpaid, they can provide valuable networking opportunities, hands-on experience, and enhance a resume, which may improve chances of securing a paid position in the future. However, it's important to ensure the internship offers meaningful learning experiences and complies with labor regulations.

What types of projects or tasks can I expect to work on during an unpaid civil engineering internship?

During an unpaid civil engineering internship, you can expect to assist with a variety of tasks such as drafting and reviewing technical drawings, performing site visits, collecting field data, and supporting project documentation. Interns often work closely with experienced engineers, which provides valuable exposure to real-world engineering challenges and project workflows. While you may not lead major projects, you'll gain hands-on experience in aspects like CAD software, report preparation, and basic calculations—skills that are highly valued in the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an unpaid internship in civil engineering?

To thrive as an Unpaid Internship Civil Engineering, you typically need foundational knowledge in civil engineering principles, mathematics, and problem-solving, often supported by current enrollment in a civil engineering degree program. Familiarity with technical tools such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Microsoft Office, as well as exposure to project management systems, is highly valuable. Strong communication, teamwork, and eagerness to learn are standout soft skills for interns in this field. These skills and qualities are important for effectively contributing to real-world projects, gaining practical experience, and building a solid foundation for a future engineering career.

What is the difference between Unpaid Internship Civil Engineering vs Civil Engineering Technician?

AspectUnpaid Internship Civil EngineeringCivil Engineering Technician
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recent graduate of civil engineering programsAssociate degree or diploma in civil engineering technology
Work EnvironmentTemporary, educational setting, often supervised by engineersOffice and field sites, assisting engineers with project tasks
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by engineering firms, government agencies, construction companiesEmployers hire technicians for ongoing project support and site work

Unpaid Internship Civil Engineering provides students or recent graduates with practical experience without compensation, focusing on learning. Civil Engineering Technicians are trained professionals who support engineering projects regularly and are typically paid employees. The internship is temporary and educational, while the technician role involves ongoing responsibilities in the civil engineering industry.

Infographic showing various Unpaid Internship Civil Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,288 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Summer 2027 Internship - Civil Engineering

Pape-Dawson Engineers

Houston, TX

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Job Description:

Overview
The Engineer Intern supports project teams under the supervision of a licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.), assisting with design tasks on a variety of infrastructure projects, such as transportation, water resources, environmental, survey, and residential or commercial land development. This entry-level role provides hands-on experience with design tools, technical documentation, and project coordination within a collaborative engineering environment.

Responsibilities

  • Assist project managers and engineers in preparing plans, specifications, and cost estimates under supervision.

  • Develop and evaluate design alternatives by analyzing basic engineering parameters, project objectives, and constraints.

  • Analyze key design features to ensure alignment with project purpose, technical requirements, and applicable standards.

  • Utilize computer-aided engineering and design software (e.g., AutoCAD Civil 3D) to produce drawings, exhibits, and supporting documents.

  • Support the preparation of technical reports, memoranda, and engineering studies using company-approved formats.

  • Participate in site visits, field activities, construction observation, and data collection as assigned.

  • Assist with redlines, submittals, preparation of exhibits, and record (as-built) drawings.

  • Engage in progressively more complex design tasks as experience, proficiency, and technical understanding develop.


Land Development

  • Assist in the design and preparation of plans for residential, commercial, and site development projects, including grading, drainage, and utility layouts.

  • Evaluate site constraints and design alternatives to support constructability and compliance with project requirements.

  • Support permitting and coordination activities related to land development projects.

Structural

  • Assist in the design and analysis of structural elements such as bridges, culverts, and other infrastructure components.

  • Support preparation of structural plans, details, calculations, and cost estimates.

  • Assist with reviews of drawings and specifications to ensure consistency with design standards and project requirements.

Traffic

  • Assist with traffic engineering tasks including intersection layouts, signing plans, and pavement marking designs.

  • Support traffic studies such as traffic impact analyses, transportation planning efforts, and traffic safety evaluations through data analysis and documentation.

Transportation

  • Assist in the planning and design of roadway and highway projects, including preparation of plans, specifications, and cost estimates.

  • Evaluate design alternatives by analyzing typical sections, alignments, right-of-way needs, and cost considerations.

  • Support reviews of transportation plans and documents for compliance with applicable standards and project scope.

Water / Wastewater (W/WW)

  • Assist in the planning and design of water distribution and wastewater collection systems.

  • Support preparation of technical documentation, permitting materials, and regulatory coordination efforts.

  • Assist with design support for water and wastewater infrastructure projects, including review of contractor submittals under supervision.

Qualifications

  • Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Civil or Agricultural Engineering from an ABET-accredited college or university.

  • Familiarity with engineering principles, practices, and procedures.

  • Basic proficiency with AutoCAD Civil 3D, Microsoft Word, and Excel.

  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.

  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

  • Adaptable and flexible in managing shifting priorities and deadlines.

EEO Statement:

All qualified applicants for Pape-Dawson Engineers will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.