Civil Engineer Intern

Pape-Dawson, Tennessee; Chattanooga (TN); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Pape-Dawson is seeking Civil Engineer Interns for the summer of 2027 in Tennessee offices (Nashville, Knoxville, Chattanooga, Franklin, Murfreesboro).

The interns will support project teams under the supervision of a licensed Professional Engineer, assisting with design tasks on residential and commercial land development projects. This entry-level role provides hands-on experience with design tools, technical documentation, and project coordination in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Civil or Agricultural Engineering from an ABET-accredited college or university
• Familiarity with engineering principles, practices, and procedures
• Basic proficiency with AutoCAD Civil 3D, Microsoft Word, and Excel
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Adaptable and flexible in managing shifting priorities and deadlines

Responsibilities

• Assist project managers and engineers in preparing plans, specifications, and cost estimates under supervision
• Develop and evaluate design alternatives by analyzing basic engineering parameters, project objectives, and constraints
• Analyze key design features to ensure alignment with project purpose, technical requirements, and applicable standards
• Utilize AutoCAD Civil 3D to produce drawings, exhibits, and supporting documents
• Support the preparation of technical reports, memoranda, and engineering studies using company-approved formats
• Participate in site visits, field activities, construction observation, and data collection as assigned
• Assist with redlines, submittals, preparation of exhibits, and record (as-built) drawings
• Engage in progressively more complex design tasks as experience, proficiency, and technical understanding develop
• Assist in the design and preparation of plans for residential, commercial, and site development projects, including grading, drainage, and utility layouts
• Evaluate site constraints and design alternatives to support constructability and compliance with project requirements
• Support permitting and coordination activities related to land development projects

Skills

Engineering basics

Communication skills

Teamwork

Adaptability

Education

ABET-accredited B.S. in Civil or Agricultural Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD Civil 3D

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Job Description: Pape-Dawson is seeking Civil Engineer Interns in our Tennessee offices for the summer of 2027 focusing on land development. The available locations are Nashville, Knoxville, Chattanooga, Franklin, and Murfreesboro.

The Engineer Intern supports project teams under the supervision of a licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.), assisting with design tasks on a variety of infrastructure projects within residential or commercial land development. This entry-level role provides hands‑on experience with design tools, technical documentation, and project coordination within a collaborative engineering environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist project managers and engineers in preparing plans, specifications, and cost estimates under supervision
• Develop and evaluate design alternatives by analyzing basic engineering parameters, project objectives, and constraints
• Analyze key design features to ensure alignment with project purpose, technical requirements, and applicable standards
• Utilize computer-aided engineering and design software (e.g., AutoCAD Civil 3D) to produce drawings, exhibits, and supporting documents
• Support the preparation of technical reports, memoranda, and engineering studies using company-approved formats
• Participate in site visits, field activities, construction observation, and data collection as assigned
• Assist with redlines, submittals, preparation of exhibits, and record (as-built) drawings
• Engage in progressively more complex design tasks as experience, proficiency, and technical understanding develop
• Assist in the design and preparation of plans for residential, commercial, and site development projects, including grading, drainage, and utility layouts
• Evaluate site constraints and design alternatives to support constructability and compliance with project requirements.
• Support permitting and coordination activities related to land development projects
• Additional related duties as needed

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Civil or Agricultural Engineering from an ABET-accredited college or university
• Familiarity with engineering principles, practices, and procedures
• Basic proficiency with AutoCAD Civil 3D, Microsoft Word, and Excel
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Adaptable and flexible in managing shifting priorities and deadlines

Pape-Dawson’s Tennessee office, formerly RaganSmith, was founded in 1933 as a land surveying company. More than nine decades later, we have grown into an interdisciplinary consulting firm of experienced civil engineers, landscape architects, transportation experts, savvy surveyors, and brilliant land planners serving the private and public sectors. In 2024, RaganSmith joined the Pape-Dawson family of companies. Pape-Dawson is an industry-leading, future‑focused civil engineering and professional services firm with nationwide locations.

EEO Statement: All qualified applicants for Pape-Dawson Engineers will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Pape-Dawson is a leading civil engineering and professional services firm, with a history of delivering award‑winning infrastructure and development projects with national impact. Our diverse team of experts is passionate about solving complex problems and making a difference in our communities. We offer career opportunities in a company culture that values personal growth and professional excellence. With world‑class benefits and a commitment to your overall wellbeing, Pape-Dawson is a place where you can thrive both personally and professionally.