Intern - Design Engineer

About the Role

Our Internship and New College Graduate program is designed for students seeking a truly immersive and hands-on experience. At Southland, every student is viewed as a potential hire, ensuring each intern, co-op student, and new college graduate is set up for success to accomplish short and long-term career goals. This program exposes you to exciting projects and potential career paths within one of the country’s largest MEP building systems firms.

The internship introduces candidates to a career in Design Engineering for the Design/Build HVAC, Plumbing, and Fire Protection industry. The primary responsibility is to assist the design team in all aspects of our work.

Responsibilities

• Assist Senior Engineers in design tasks as required.
• Perform basic deliverables and products such as calculations, drawings, and specifications related to heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems under supervision.
• Perform basic calculations for projects, including heating/cooling loads, equipment selection and sizing, pipe and duct sizing, and friction loss calculations.
• Assist in coordinating all aspects of project design with project management, architects, and other trades through the completion phase.
• Perform and check CADD drafting work.
• Review applicable codes and criteria and examine field conditions to support project design.

Requirements

• Pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Completion of classes in Thermodynamics and HVAC Design is highly desirable.
• Strong work ethic and initiative to get the job done.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to be resourceful and resilient.
• Able to solve problems with limited support and seeks answers independently.
• Positive attitude during adverse or non-ideal situations.
• Exercises accountability in stressful situations (avoids placing blame).
• Goal-oriented with a collaborative spirit and a “We vs. Me” attitude.
• Strong active listening skills.
• Competent in general business writing and public speaking.

What You’ll Gain

• Increased knowledge of HVAC design, including types of equipment utilized in the industry and general understanding of system operations (e.g., variable air, constant volume, refrigeration cycle).
• Ability to communicate with all levels of management, including project management and field trades.
• Experience reading mechanical and plumbing plans.
• Strengthened general business writing skills and additional experience with CADD and other products.

Pay

For California-based internship roles, the pay rate is $26.00 per hour.

Benefits

Internship/Co-op Program Benefits

• Hands-on classroom and on-the-job experience in your specific role.
• Opportunity to work side-by-side with company leaders.
• Socially distant group activities and team events.
• Paid housing (some locations).
• Paid internship/Co-op.
• Potential full-time employment opportunities.

Full-time Employee Benefits

• 401(k) plan with 50% company match (no cap) and immediate 100% vesting.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (100% paid for employee).
• Annual bonus program based on performance, achievement, and company profitability.
• Term life, AD&D insurance, and voluntary life insurance.
• Disability income protection insurance.
• Pre-tax flexible spending plans (health and dependent care).
• Paid parental leave.
• Paid holidays, vacation, and personal time.
• Training/professional development opportunities and company-paid memberships for professional associations and licenses.
• Wellness benefits.

About Southland Industries

As one of the nation’s largest MEP companies, Southland Industries is built on the foundation of great people. Since 1949, we have put our people first, enabling growth, professional achievement, and innovation. We offer a fast-paced environment where you’re engaged, challenged, and valued.