Intern Engineer

About the role

The Engineering Intern will support the Barnhart team at the Chesapeake, VA branch in developing innovative heavy-lift and heavy-transport solutions. This paid internship provides hands-on experience assisting with AutoCAD/Inventor modeling, equipment layout drawings, basic steel design, and engineering process improvements, while collaborating closely with engineers, managers, and field teams. The role offers exposure to all facets of the heavy rigging and transportation industry through both office-based and local field support.

Responsibilities

• Assist Barnhart Engineering team in creating innovative heavy-lift/heavy-transport solutions.
• Work as directed by Manager to support Barnhart Engineers in completion of assigned tasks and required deliverables.
• AutoCAD/Inventor modeling.
• Equipment layout drawings.
• Basic steel design and calculations.
• Initiatives that aid in engineering process and proposal creation (e.g., reference charts, Excel templates).
• Regular and clear communication with Manager and other Barnhart team members.
• Local field support as needed.
• Work and act in a way consistent with the company Mission Statement and Core Values.
• Develop understanding of all facets of the heavy rigging and transportation industry, including:
  • Equipment Knowledge – Working knowledge of Barnhart equipment, load charts, features, operational best practices, and industry standard rigging equipment (e.g., shackles, slings, spreader bars).
  • People Knowledge – Familiarity with skills and qualifications of Branch Personnel, matching those to the required job.

Education

High School Diploma and pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in an Engineering discipline from an ABET accredited institution.

Experience

Preferred experience in the construction industry.

Skills

• Ability to work both independently and as a team.
• Must work safely in a fast-paced environment, often under pressure.
• Demonstrated oral and written communication skills.
• Mechanical aptitude preferred.
• Able to troubleshoot equipment problems and quickly determine corrective actions.
• Creative thinking skills to make continuous improvements.
• Proven organizational skills.
• Ability to confront people when needed and become a leader through example.
• AutoCAD and solid modeling experience preferred but not required.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access).
• Flexibility to work long hours as needed, some weekend work required.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to engage with the Barnhart culture in support of opportunity and project-based efforts.

Work Environment

Barnhart Chesapeake branch, Barnhart equipment storage yard, project field locations.

About Barnhart

PURPOSE

Barnhart is built on a strong foundation of serving others. The fruit of our labor is used to grow the company, care for our employees, and serve those in our communities and around the world.

MINDS OVER MATTER

Barnhart has built a reputation for solving problems. We specialize in the lifting, heavy-rigging, and heavy transport of major components used in North American industry.

NETWORK

Barnhart has built teams that form one of our industry’s strongest networks of talent and resources with over 70 branch locations across North America working together to serve our customers. This growing network offers our team members constant opportunity for career growth and professional development.

CULTURE

Barnhart has a strong team culture — the “One TEAM.” We are looking for smart, hard-working people who strive for excellence in their work and appreciate collaboration. Join a team that values Safety, Servant Leadership, Quality Service, Innovation, Continuous Improvement, Fairness, and Profit with a Purpose.