Civil Engineering Internship

Company Overview

KPFF is a multi‑office, multi‑discipline engineering firm committed to Excellence, Trust, Relationships, Stability, and Passion. For over 65 years, KPFF has provided creative solutions and excellent client service across a diverse range of projects and industries. With more than 1,500 professionals in 36 offices nationwide, the firm offers a decentralized structure that provides flexibility and numerous opportunities for professional growth. Learn more at www.kpff.com.

Job Description

KPFF Seattle’s Civil Team designs sites for commercial, residential, institutional, and recreational development, as well as critical public and private infrastructure such as district energy, regional storm drainage, utility grids, and trails. The team supports projects from feasibility studies and master planning through design, permitting, and construction, collaborating closely with owners, architects, landscape architects, and other engineering disciplines to create sustainable, resilient communities.

Responsibilities

• Support engineers and CAD staff with design‑related tasks, including 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 designed systems.
• Research jurisdictional codes and manuals to determine design requirements.
• Participate in brainstorming sessions focused on sustainable civil engineering solutions.
• Perform calculations for stormwater conveyance, water quality, flow control, and green stormwater systems.
• Conduct vehicle turning studies using vehicle‑tracking software.
• Prepare exhibits for reports and presentations.
• Help draft drainage reports and feasibility studies.
• Apply core engineering principles and advanced mathematical techniques to real‑world challenges.
• Develop familiarity with federal, state, and local regulations while aligning with KPFF and client standards.
• 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 skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Desire for continued learning.
• Familiarity with AutoCAD or Civil 3D (desired).

Physical Demands

The role is primarily office‑based, requiring prolonged periods of sitting at a desk or computer. Occasionally, interns may need to lift objects up to 15 lb and travel to project sites for field observations, which can involve walking, standing, kneeling, or navigating uneven terrain.

Compensation

Hourly rate: $28.00 – $32.00, depending on qualifications.

Benefits

• Subsidized ORCA bus/rail pass.
• Paid holidays during the internship.
• Paid sick and mental‑health time.
• In‑office bike storage and lockers.
• Access to an on‑site gym and locker rooms.