Summer Associate (Summer 2027)

About the Role

The Summer Associate Program offers a 10‑12‑week, full‑time immersion beginning in mid‑May or early June. As a summer associate you will be fully embedded with a team on a jobsite or in a department, gaining hands‑on experience across project management, field management, project development, and business operations. The program includes a Capstone Project with a manager‑defined professional objective, a final presentation, and the “Passport Experience” that showcases the breadth of Atkinson’s business, builds connections, and provides essential industry knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Project Management – understand day‑to‑day and long‑term business and financial management of construction projects.
• Financial Management – support budgeting, estimating, and purchasing activities.
• Document Control – maintain accurate project documentation.
• Trade Partner Success – assist trade partners and ensure collaborative progress.
• Field Management – learn site logistics, quality control, and safety; assist with schedule coordination and critical thinking on‑site.
• Project Development – participate in acquisition of new work, strategy development, and client relationship building.
• Business Operations – explore functions that keep the company running smoothly for a holistic view of the organization.

Basic Qualifications

• Currently attending university and working toward a bachelor’s degree in construction management, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field.
• Interest and passion for the construction industry.

What a Successful Candidate Looks Like

• Enthusiasm & Drive: Punctual, dedicated, proactive team player who arrives early, takes initiative, represents the company professionally, and maintains a positive attitude.
• Delivery & Performance: Reliably meets role expectations, follows Atkinson’s procedures, takes ownership, solves problems, and demonstrates urgency.
• Learning & Growth: Engages with Atkinson’s culture, is self‑directed and curious, continuously builds technical expertise and business acumen.

Physical Requirements

This is an active, hands‑on role. You will be on your feet frequently, navigating uneven terrain, stairs, ladders, and hoists. The work is physically demanding, requiring bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting materials up to 25 lb (occasionally up to 50 lb). Effective communication and visual acuity for reading plans and inspecting work are essential. Desk time may involve prolonged sitting for computer work, document review, and meetings.

Work Environment

You will spend significant time on active construction sites, adapting to all weather conditions, moderate to loud noise, elevated or confined areas, and moving mechanical equipment. Office time will be in a typical setting with moderate noise levels. Safety is a top priority; you must follow Atkinson Construction’s safety policies, procedures, and all applicable laws.

High‑Performing Culture

The environment is demanding and high‑performance. Candidates should thrive under pressure, be flexible to work extended hours during critical phases, and be responsive to time‑sensitive matters or emergencies, including monitoring communications outside regular hours.

Compensation

Hourly rate is $25 – $31/hr, determined by geographic location, education, experience, and market considerations.

Benefits

Benefits could include commuter benefits or fitness reimbursement.