Public Works Engineering Intern

MSA has an opportunity for a Public Works Engineering Intern in our Rice Lake, WI office. Public Works internships provide a variety of experiences and projects, ranging from construction to design and municipal work. Project types can include utilities, water and wastewater systems, trails, roads, and stormwater management.

MSA internships are typically at least 12 weeks in duration, ranging from mid-May 2027 to mid-August 2027, with start/exit dates confirmed later in the hiring process. Across the firm, MSA typically hires around 40 interns each summer.

About the role

For engineering students seeking consulting experience with municipal projects, this internship offers hands-on involvement in diverse public works projects. MSA values a collaborative and innovative work environment where interns contribute meaningfully to community-focused engineering solutions.

Who We Are

MSA is a 100% employee-owned firm with roots dating back to 1919. What began as a solo practice in Baraboo, Wisconsin, has grown into a thriving company of over 400 employee owners serving communities nationwide. We stand behind the quality of our designs, the integrity of our people, and the long-term client relationships built on trust and collaboration.

MSA is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), fostering a workplace where everyone can bring their authentic selves, learn, and succeed. We believe diverse perspectives drive innovation and success.

Responsibilities

• Inspect active construction work on municipal water, road/utilities, or wastewater projects.
• Perform construction administration duties, including documenting activities, communicating progress to project managers, measuring and testing, providing oversight, and interacting with contractors, sub-contractors, residents, and city staff.
• Help prepare permits and technical reports for municipal projects.
• Assist with CAD work and project estimations.
• Provide support for company initiatives that may involve different service lines.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Pursuing a Bachelor’s degree (or related) in Civil or Environmental Engineering (required).
• A valid driver’s license (required).
• Authorization to work in the United States for any employer (required; sponsorship will not be provided).
• Previous related engineering intern or co-op experience (preferred).
• Civil 3D or AutoCAD coursework and/or experience (preferred).

Benefits

• Pay: $22 to $26 per hour, commensurate with experience. Higher compensation within this range for candidates with significant experience and exceptional qualifications.
• Work-Life Integration: Flexible support for professional and personal obligations.
• Paid Time Off: Minimum of 17 days (3+ weeks) in the first year, plus 8 paid holidays.
• Parental Leave: 2 weeks of paid leave for all parents; birth parents eligible for additional paid time off under Short Term Paid Leave. Also applies to adoption and foster care placement.
• Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees, spouses/domestic partners, and eligible dependents.
• Supplemental Insurance: MSA pays 100% for life insurance, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurance.
• Retirement Savings: Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) – eligible employees receive MSA stock at no cost. 401k plan with a generous, immediately vested employer match.
• Short Term Incentive (STIP): Annual performance-based bonus as a percentage of eligible compensation, awarded if MSA meets its corporate financial plan.
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and access to Communities of Practice (CoPs) for collaboration and learning.
• Community Engagement: Corporate support for volunteering, STEM outreach, and local events.
• Additional Perks: Collaborative work environment, multi-disciplinary opportunities, and a culture that values passion, purpose, and innovation.