Civil Engineering Internship

About the role

KPFF Seattle’s Civil Team designs sites that enable land to be developed for commercial, residential, institutional, and recreational purposes. We also design critical public and private infrastructure systems that support the built and natural environments, including district energy, regional storm drainage facilities, utility grids, and trails. We support projects ranging from feasibility evaluations and master planning to design, permitting, and construction. Our group works in close collaboration with owners, architects, landscape architects, and other engineering disciplines to build a more sustainable, resilient, and thriving community.

Responsibilities

• Support engineers and CAD staff with design-related tasks such as calculations, plan production and review.
• Learn and use engineering and design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D) to contribute to project development.
• Travel to project sites to observe existing conditions and construction of the systems we design.
• Research jurisdictional codes and manuals to determine design requirements.
• Participate in brainstorming sessions about sustainable civil engineering solutions.
• Perform calculations to support the design of stormwater conveyance, water quality, flow control, and green stormwater systems.
• Perform vehicle turning studies using Vehicle Tracking software programs.
• Prepare exhibits for reports and/or presentations.
• Help prepare drafts of drainage reports and feasibility studies.
• Apply core engineering principles and advanced mathematical techniques to tackle real-world challenges.
• Build familiarity in navigating federal, state, and local regulations, while aligning with KPFF’s and our clients’ standards and practices.
• Thrive in a vibrant, inclusive, and collaborative team environment that values creativity, curiosity, and excellence.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing an ABET accredited bachelor's degree in civil (preferred) or environmental engineering.
• Completion of sophomore or junior year by the start of the 2027 Summer Internship.
• Basic knowledge of junior year engineering fundamentals.
• Strong written and verbal communication.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Desire for continued learning.

Desired qualifications

Coursework and/or familiarity with AutoCAD or Civil 3D.

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.
• Travelling 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 ORCA bus/rail pass
• Paid holidays during your internship
• Paid sick and mental health time
• Use of in-office bike storage and lockers
• Use of in-building gym and locker rooms