Engineering Co-op Terms (Substation Construction)

Valard Group of Companies; Calgary; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading utility contractor in Calgary is seeking motivated Engineering Co-op Students for hands-on experience in project engineering, coordination, and estimating. This role involves supporting project managers and assisting with material specifications, project scheduling, and documentation. Ideal candidates will be currently enrolled in an engineering program and possess communication skills. The position offers competitive pay and benefits, providing a valuable opportunity to learn in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

Competitive hourly rate

Vacation pay

Complete range of employee benefits

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an Engineering program with at least one semester remaining.
• Understanding of construction drawings, specifications, and related documentation.
• Ability to interpret project schedules and timelines.

Responsibilities

• Assist with material and construction specifications for projects.
• Coordinate project schedules, milestones, and resources.
• Support multiple departments with documentation and cost tracking.

Skills

Communication

Project management processes

Construction drawings interpretation

Material specifications knowledge

Education

Currently enrolled in an Engineering program

Tools

Spreadsheets

Word processing tools

Presentation software

Job description

Our Substation group is seeking motivated and organized Engineering Co-op Students to join our Project Engineering, Project Coordination, and Estimating teams. These opportunities offer hands‑on exposure to one of the most critical sectors of the construction industry.

Co‑op students work closely with Project Managers, Construction Managers, and cross‑functional stakeholders to support the planning, coordination, and execution of safe, efficient, and high‑quality substation projects. These roles provide valuable experience in construction, project management, and engineering support within a fast‑paced EPC environment. Come learn how Canada’s premier utility contractor builds the Electric Power Infrastructure that Powers Modern Life!

Please Note: These positions are based in our Calgary office and require the students to be in Calgary for the duration. We have options for 4‑ and 8‑month terms.

Duties and Responsibilities

Project Engineering

• Assist with material and construction specifications for projects
• Work with design packages, material take‑offs, and procurement requisitions
• Track material deliveries, inventory, and documentation
• Coordinate purchase orders, packing slips, and expense submissions
• Support project schedules, progress reports, and quality records
• Assist with project change orders, including cost and schedule updates
• Technical support to field teams during construction
• Liaise between project operations and the corporate office to keep information

Project Coordination

• Assist in coordinating staff, resources, and workflows, supporting construction management teams on‑site and in the office
• Support project planning by scheduling tasks, deadlines, and milestones to meet time, cost, and quality objectives
• Track and report project progress through updates, presentations, and other reporting tools
• Facilitate communication between field staff, design engineers, clients, and other stakeholders
• Review and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and project documents to support execution
• Maintain project processes, procedures, and data systems, including inventory management
• Support multiple departments with scheduling, cost tracking, procurement, documentation, and filing
• Prepare reports, collect documentation, and maintain project records

Estimating

• Assist with quantity take‑offs and pricing, as well as review and validate outsourced estimates
• Review and incorporate historical data from estimates received, contracts awarded by the EPC Contractor and final actual project costs into Valard’s cost model
• Format estimates in Owners Reporting format
• Review and understand Design Basis, Engineering Design Documents, and Basis of Estimate
• Prepare written deliverables for bid submission (i.e. understanding of work, assumptions, execution plans)
• Attend and assist in project planning sessions and team meetings to provide estimating input
• Assist in the development of general and project specific plans for execution, sequencing, and logistics

• Currently enrolled in an Engineering program with at least one semester remaining
• Previous experience or exposure to the construction industry is an asset
• Understanding of construction drawings, specifications, and related documentation
• Ability to interpret project schedules and timelines
• Familiarity with project management processes and best practices
• Proficiency with standard computer programs, including spreadsheets, word processing, and presentation tools

We offer a competitive hourly rate, vacation pay and a complete range of employee benefits, to ensure you have the tools necessary to manage, maintain, and improve your health and wellbeing.

About our Business

Valard Construction is Canada’s premier utility contractor providing comprehensive EPC+ (engineering, procurement, construction) and maintenance services to utilities, independent power producers, mining, oil and gas industries and rural electric associations. We have the capabilities, knowledge, and resources to take on any project, any size, any complexity, anywhere. We are also part of QuantaServices, the largest electrical power contractor in North America.

Valard Construction is an equal opportunity employer.

Learn more

Visit us at www.valard.com and connect with us on our social media channels for our latest news, employee stories, community activities, and other updates.

* Depending on qualifications, the successful candidate may be offered a position at a more appropriate level.

* Applicants must have legal authorization to work in Canada with no restrictions.

* Valard Construction is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified individuals, without regard to race, religion, age, sex, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or disability. Accommodation for applicants with disabilities is available on request during the recruitment process.