Civil Engineering Co-op Winter - 2027

SMEUSA; Michigan; On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

SME is recruiting Co-ops in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana for a February start. The program runs full-time through late August, with an orientation followed by on-the-job training alongside SME Team Members. Interns interact with construction managers, contractors, and design professionals, gaining hands-on exposure to diverse projects and future specialization opportunities.

The role emphasizes safety, teamwork, and a proactive problem-solving mindset as part of SME’s collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Must have a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.
• Able to lift and carry equipment and samples up to 50–60 pounds.
• Comfortable working outside on construction sites in various weather conditions.
• Able to sit, stand, stoop and kneel for long periods.
• Able to walk on uneven ground and terrain.

Responsibilities

• Support field construction quality control activities.
• Assist in evaluation of project materials ( soils, concrete, asphalt, etc.).
• Collaborate with SME Team Members and contractors to ensure adherence to project specs.
• Assist engineering staff with field evaluations and testing.
• Expose yourself to geotechnical engineering, environmental remediation, pavement design, and materials evaluation.

Skills

Basic computer literacy

Good driving record

Lift 50–60 lbs

Outdoor work

Endurance

Walk on uneven terrain

Job description

SME's Winter Co-op assignment begins in mid-February and requires a commitment to work full-time though late August. There is no minimum number of years of college education to apply for our Co-op program, but our Summer Internships are only available to those who have previously completed a Co-op with SME.

Your Co-op experience begins with an orientation/training period lasting several weeks followed by on-the-job training with full-time SME Team Members. You will be exposed to a wide variety of construction techniques and project types, helping you explore a variety of future specializations. You will also have the opportunity to work and interact directly with construction managers, contractors, and design professionals. As a Co-op your responsibilities are real and you are an important part of the SME Team.

We are hiring Co-ops in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana.

Technical Skills Required:

• Basic Computer Literacy: Our Co-ops must be comfortable using computers and software that is essential for in-field work, company communications, and report generation.
• To be considered, you must have a good driving record and must be able to comfortably lift and carry equipment and samples weighing up to approximately 50 - 60 pounds.
• Ability to work outside, at construction project sites, in various weather conditions.
• Must be able to sit, stand, stoop and/or kneel for long periods of time.
• Must be able to walk and work on uneven ground/terrain.
• A valid driver's license, experience driving in the U.S. and a good driving record.

Preferred Behavioral traits:

Attention to detail: A keen eye for detail is important when reviewing construction plans or other project documents. Ability to pay attention
to the accuracy of details in reporting is a
requirement. While specific in-field experience may not be required, we are looking for good problem-solvers. Showcasing your ability to think critically and approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset is valuable.
Time management: You must be able to showcase your ability to manage your time well and meet deadlines. We are looking for motivated self-starters, and punctual hard workers.
Communication Skills: Co-ops are expected to have good written, organizational, and oral communication skills. Co-ops should demonstrate good interpersonal and customer service skills and the ability to work well in a team environment.
Learning Attitude: Successful Co-ops demonstrate an enthusiasm to learn and adapt.
Safety Minded: All SME Team Members demonstrate a focus on Safety in the work we do. Our Co-ops are expected to adhere to industry and SME safety standards and encourage safe work behaviors while on the job.

Responsibilities:

Your work will involve supporting field construction quality control activities. You will gain valuable experience in the assessment and evaluation of project materials including soils, concrete, asphalt, and other construction materials. You will work closely with SME Team Members and contractors to learn and assist in the adherence project specifications. You may also assist SME engineering staff in performing field evaluations and quality control testing in the field. You will gain direct exposure to consulting engineering practices and have an opportunity to meet technical specialists in the areas of geotechnical engineering, environmental remediation, pavement design, and materials evaluation.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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