Bridge Structural Engineering Internship

About the role

KPFF Spokane’s Civil/Structural Team is composed primarily of structural engineers who design and evaluate infrastructure that connects communities. Our work spans a wide range of bridge and heavy-civil projects, including highway and pedestrian bridges, retaining walls, culverts that support fish passage, ferry terminals, piers, wharves, and structural inspections. We take pride in our collaborative approach to consulting, partnering with clients across the industry, from small local agencies, to state transportation departments, to architects and contractors. Our team contributes to projects that range from feasibility studies, to new construction, to rehabilitation, to retrofits, always with a focus on technical excellence, environmental stewardship, and community impact.

Responsibilities

• Support engineers and CAD staff with design-related tasks such as calculations, plan production and review.
• Utilize engineering and design software to contribute to project development.
• Travel to project sites to observe existing conditions and active construction.
• Apply core engineering principles and advanced mathematical techniques to tackle real-world challenges.
• Build familiarity navigating federal, state, and local regulations while aligning with KPFF’s and our clients’ standards and practices.
• Participate in a vibrant, inclusive, and collaborative team environment that values creativity, curiosity, and excellence.
• Engage in our internship program, which provides additional career growth and networking opportunities specific to the structural engineering consultant industry.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing an ABET accredited bachelor’s or master’s (BSCE/MSCE) degree in civil engineering, with a focus on structural engineering.
• Completion of two or more design courses (concrete, steel, wood, or masonry) by the start of the 2027 internship.
• Basic knowledge of engineering fundamentals.
• Strong written and verbal communication.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Desire for continued learning.

Physical Demands

• Duties are primarily conducted in a standard office setting, requiring prolonged periods of sitting at a desk or computer table.
• Occasionally may be required to lift objects weighing up to 15 lbs.
• Traveling to project sites and performing field observations which may involve walking, standing, kneeling, or navigating uneven terrain.

Pay

The expected range for a qualified candidate is $28.00 – $32.00 hourly.

Benefits

• Subsidized STA bus pass
• Paid holidays during your internship
• Paid sick and mental health time