Intern - Energy Project Engineer

Our Internship and New College Graduate program is designed for students who seek a truly immersive and hands-on experience. At Southland, we view every student as a potential hire and ensure each intern, co-op student, and new college graduate is set up for success to accomplish short and long-term career goals. Join our team and become part of an organization that values people, safety, innovation, collaboration, integrity, accountability, and sustainability.

About the role

Our internship program introduces students to a career in the Design/Build construction industry. The primary responsibility is assisting a project manager to successfully coordinate a project using necessary engineering, labor, equipment, materials, tools, and subcontracted services. This position develops skills in design, estimating, construction process, workflow, and scheduling to better understand the coordination of the design-build construction process. Candidates may be assigned to construction projects in the Greater Los Angeles Area and/or California Central Coast areas.

Responsibilities

• Labor and budget tracking feedback
• Equipment and subcontractor procurement
• Document control
• Design, trade, and subcontractor coordination
• Assist in budget analysis, cost and margin projections, estimate project changes and impacts
• Assist in the development and management of project schedules
• Assist in estimating the impact of project changes
• Assist management of change orders
• Assist with assembling submittal packages and other required project documentation
• Assist with procurement of equipment, materials, subcontractors, and other project-related services
• Support the construction team as needed

Qualifications

• Pursuing a degree in one of the following or related fields:
  • Mechanical, Architectural, or Electrical Engineering
  • Construction Engineering or Construction Management
  • Civil Engineering or Safety Sciences
  • Building Automation or Energy Management
• Interest in technical courses such as fluids, heat transfer, construction management scheduling, or finance
• Strong work ethic and initiative to get the job done
• Strong communication skills
• Resourcefulness and resilience
• Ability to solve problems with limited support
• Quick learner who 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

• The ability to read engineering drawings and identify work installed to track labor feedback accurately
• Prepare job-related logs, including RFIs, submittals, design changes, and subcontractor progress/schedules
• Learn to communicate effectively with engineers, vendors, and suppliers to procure, manage, and update the submittal process
• Learn to write and track Requests for Information (RFI)
• Gain an understanding of construction processes and workflow
• Hands-on field experience

Pay

$26.00 per hour for California-based internship roles.

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 prioritized our people, enabling growth, professional achievement, and innovation. Join our dynamic team in a fast-paced environment where you’re engaged, challenged, and valued.