Bridge Design & Structural Engineering Internship

alfredbeneschco; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision benefits

Life insurance

401K with company contributions

Paid time off

Job summary

Benesch in Chicago, IL is seeking a Bridge Design & Structural Engineering Intern to support conventional and complex bridge projects. You will assist with design, load ratings, and inspections under the guidance of experienced engineers.

Ideal candidates are pursuing a Civil Engineering degree (ABET-accredited) with interest in structures, capable of teamwork, and eager to learn in a collaborative environment. This internship offers mentorship across projects and technical growth.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an ABET-accredited university, focusing on structures
• Master's degree in Civil Engineering with a structural focus (or plans to obtain within 2 years) preferred
• Strong interest in bridge and structural engineering
• Excellent analytical, technical, and communication skills (written and verbal)
• Familiarity with AASHTO, IDOT, and ISTHA design and construction standards preferred
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills

Responsibilities

• Support conventional and complex bridge and structure design
• Assist with load ratings and bridge inspections
• Gain hands-on experience contributing to design, analysis, and field tasks while learning from experienced engineers

Skills

Bridge engineering interest

Analytical & communication skills

Teamwork

Organization & problem-solving

Education

ABET-accredited civil engineering (bachelor)

Master's in civil engineering with structural focus (preferred)

Tools

AASHTO standards

IDOT standards

ISTHA standards

Job description

Simply Put, A Great Place to Work

Benesch is a growing, multi-disciplined planning, engineering, and professional services firm. We enhance infrastructure and communities across the country - creating spaces and providing connections in ways that make a difference.

We pride ourselves on being nimble enough to remain responsive to client needs yet large enough to offer exceptional bench strength. As a member of our team, you'll have an opportunity to draw from those resources when you need them and, likewise, contribute your expertise when you have something to share.

At Benesch, we are looking for candidates with varied backgrounds and worldviews. We are committed to offering an inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued and respected. Statistics show that women and underrepresented groups are less likely to apply for a position if they don't meet 100% of the qualifications. If this statement resonates with you, don't be so hard on yourself-

Bridge Design & Structural Engineering Internship

At Benesch, our commitment to innovation and collaboration extends beyond our projects. We believe in nurturing talent from the ground up, making it a core part of our values. Whether you're seeking your first internship or ready for the next step in your budding career, Benesch is hiring individuals to join our dynamic teams across the country!

Work alongside Benesch's Bridge and Structural Engineering Professionals dedicated to delivering innovative solutions to transportation challenges. As a Bridge & Structures Intern, you will support conventional and complex bridge and structure design, load ratings, and bridge inspections. You will gain hands‑on experience contributing to design, analysis, and field tasks while learning directly from experienced engineers.

Location

This internship will be based in our Chicago, IL office, with opportunities to collaborate on active projects and receive mentorship from Project Engineers and Project Managers.

What We Are Looking For

• Pursuing a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an ABET-accredited university, focusing on structures
• Master's degree in Civil Engineering with a structural focus (or plans to obtain within 2 years) preferred
• Strong interest in bridge and structural engineering
• Excellent analytical, technical, and communication skills (written and verbal)
• Familiarity with AASHTO, IDOT, and ISTHA design and construction standards preferred
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Strong organizational and problem‑solving skills

The expected compensation range for this position is displayed in accordance with the State of Illinois Pay Transparency Act, Illinois Pay Transparency Law . The final agreed‑upon compensation is based on numerous factors, including but not limited to individual education, qualifications, prior work experience, and geographic location. The total annual compensation package will consist of a base salary, overtime, and bonuses.

Our benefits package is designed to take care of our employees and is compliant with the State of Illinois Paid Leave Act, Illinois Paid Leave Act . Benesch offers a generous paid time benefits plan that increases throughout your career plus several paid holidays. Our benefits include medical, dental, and vision benefits. We also include company‑paid life insurance, short term, and long‑term disability plans. Benesch offers a 401K plan and profit‑sharing contributions to the 401K plan. From insurance and retirement plan to our wellness programs, we provide employee benefits that meet your wants and needs.

Illinois Pay Range

$18 - $30 USD

Why Benesch

• It's simple. We invest in our people, not just our projects.
• Career growth that's real with leadership development, training, and clear paths forward
• Strong financial future with up to 9% retirement contribution for benefit‑eligible employees
• Flexibility that works with schedules that support your life
• Time to recharge with generous paid time off and parental leave for benefit‑eligible employees
• Support beyond work through mentorship, hands‑on experience, and opportunities to make an impact from day one
• Whether you're starting your career or bringing years of experience, you'll have the support and exposure to grow here.

Equal Opportunity & Accessibility

At Benesch, we believe great work starts with great people and that means creating a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Benesch is firmly committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and prohibits employment discrimination for employees and applicants in all protected groups, including veterans and individuals with disabilities, or other status protected by federal, state, and local laws.

Benesch is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to applicants with a physical disability or other impairment.

If you are limited in your ability or are unable to access Benesc