Water Resources/Fish Passage Intern - 2027
KPFF Consulting Engineers is an engineering design firm with over 60 years of experience delivering innovative, sustainable solutions for complex infrastructure challenges. With more than 1,500 professionals across 36 offices, the firm emphasizes balance, growth, and well‑being, offering flexibility, generous benefits, and a collaborative approach to work‑life integration.
About the role
The KPFF Lacey team is seeking a Water Resources/Fish Passage Engineering student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE) for a summer internship. The 2027 Civil Engineering Summer Internship is a full‑time position (approximately 40 hours per week or less) lasting 2.5 to 4 months, depending on the candidate’s availability.
Responsibilities
- Assist with fish passage design and stream and habitat restoration projects.
- Support office duties such as making copies, preparing reports, handling permit applications, and maintaining project schedules.
- Navigate job sites as required and comply with all company and site safety requirements both in the office and on‑site.
- Adapt responsibilities based on project needs and team assignments to gain a well‑rounded internship experience.
Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE) program.
- Completion of junior year prior to the internship start date.
- Basic knowledge of civil engineering principles and a strong desire for continued learning.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with team members.
- General understanding of AutoCAD and Civil 3D.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Skills
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs.
- Computer‑aided drafting experience (AutoCAD and Civil 3D) is desired.
- Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
- Team‑oriented work style and dependability.
- Ability to understand and follow directions.
- Good time‑management and organizational skills.
Physical Demands and Work Environment
- Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working on a computer.
- Occasionally required to lift objects weighing up to 15 lb.
- Mobility to move throughout the office, including bending, kneeling, reaching, or crouching to access supplies and equipment.
- Must comply with all safety requirements in the office.
Compensation
- Hourly pay: $25.00 – $29.00 per hour, depending on experience and local office standards.
- Non‑exempt classification under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FSLA) with eligibility for overtime at 1.5 × the regular rate for hours worked beyond 40 hours per week.
- Performance‑based bonuses are available to recognize outstanding contributions.
Culture
KPFF Lacey’s vision is to create lasting positive impacts for people, clients, and the community. The office fosters a collaborative, playful, and positive environment that encourages personal and professional growth while maintaining a solid structure with minimal organizational restrictions. With a staff of 40+ professionals backed by the resources of a 1,400‑person firm, interns gain exposure to a fast‑paced setting, working alongside civil engineers and surveyors on diverse project types and sizes, requiring quick thinking and effective communication.
Internship Duration
The internship typically runs 10–12 weeks during the summer, with full‑time hours. Exact start and end dates may vary based on the student’s availability.