Engineering Intern - Suffolk, VA

About the role

VDOT’s Internship Program introduces undergraduate and graduate students to public service and the critical needs of the organization through a paid summer work experience. Interns receive guided, real‑world experience in engineering and related functional areas, focusing on technical and self‑leadership skills. Depending on business needs and performance, the internship may be extended into the academic year.

Responsibilities

• Perform special duties as assigned and engage in education‑related work experiences that apply academic knowledge to practical tasks.
• Communicate with VDOT staff, external contacts, and consultants; proactively resolve issues and project a positive VDOT image.
• Apply engineering technology principles to assigned program areas and interpret relevant policies and procedures.
• Perform routine maintenance and repairs on testing equipment, following guidelines for storage, use, and transport.
• Prepare and maintain daily documentation of project activities, ensuring timely submission and avoiding project delays.
• Maintain accurate records for all project activities, entering and updating data to meet required deadlines.

What Will Make You Successful

• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to perform manual labor, including securing, handling, and preparing material samples.
• Capability to read and interpret engineering plans and specifications.
• Knowledge of mathematics up to algebra and geometry.
• Proficiency with computers and software applications, including MS Office and smartphones.

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently enrolled full‑time in an Associate’s degree program or higher.
• Basic knowledge of engineering principles.
• At least 18 years of age by the start of employment.
• Maintain full‑time graduate status (9+ credit hours per semester) before and after the internship, or full‑time undergraduate status (12+ credit hours per semester) before and after the internship.

Additional Considerations

• A combination of training, experience, or education in engineering or a related field is desired.
• Ability to anticipate problems, provide solutions, follow instructions, learn quickly, and collaborate with teammates.
• Ability to make quality, timely decisions.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.