Civil or Environmental Engineering Co-op Intern

SWCA Environmental Consultants; Lombard (IL); Hybrid; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

SWCA Environmental Consultants in Chicago, IL is seeking Civil or Environmental Engineering Co-ops (Intern - Engineering) for Spring 2027. This paid, 40-hour/week internship offers a blend of office and field work collaborating with multi-disciplinary engineers.

The role runs Jan 4, 2027 to Apr 23, 2027. Responsibilities include supporting project managers on stream restoration, wetlands, site grading, and stormwater, plus data cleanup, reporting, and fieldwork across locations.

Qualifications

• Enrollment in a co-op program integrated into your university curriculum is required.
• Ability to travel to the field approximately 50% of the time, including spending up to a week or two at a project location.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Valid driver's license and ability to safely operate a 4WD vehicle in remote or backcountry conditions.

Responsibilities

• Support project managers and field lead in various engineering projects (stream restoration, wetland restoration, site grading, stormwater management, inspections, etc.).
• Engage in office tasks such as data clean-up, reporting, and other tasks supporting the Engineering team.
• Conduct fieldwork across office locations and nearby states, including hiking for extended periods.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues and independently when required.

Skills

Microsoft Office

Travel 50% field

Driver's license

Education

Co-op integrated into university curriculum

Tools

AutoCAD Civil 3D

GPS devices

ArcGIS

Job description

About the opportunity

SWCA is seeking enthusiastic Civil or Environmental Engineering Co-ops (HR Title: Intern - Engineering) to join our Spring 2027 team in Chicago, IL. This role offers a dynamic mix of office and field experience, giving you the chance to collaborate with talented, multi-disciplinary engineering professionals.

As an Engineering Co-op, you will apply your passion for civil or environmental engineering in real-world projects, while building critical skills in communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. We are looking for students with a positive attitude, eagerness to learn, flexibility, and strong collaboration skills.

Your role will be filled with exciting challenges and hands-on projects, running from January 4th, 2027 until April 23rd 2027.

This is a paid, 40-hour/week co-op with a competitive rate of $24/hour. Preference will be given to candidates located in the Chicago, IL area; however, qualified candidates residing in Ohio, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and Indiana will also be considered.

Application Deadline

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and interviews may be scheduled as qualified candidates are identified. This position may close without prior notice once a strong candidate pool is established.

What you will accomplish

• Support project managers and field lead in various engineering projects (stream restoration, wetland restoration, site grading, stormwater management, inspections, etc.).
• Engage in office tasks such as data clean-up, reporting, and other tasks supporting the Engineering team.
• Conduct fieldwork across office locations and nearby states, including hiking for extended periods.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues and independently when required.

Experience and qualifications for success

• Enrollment in a co-op program integrated into your university curriculum is required.
• Ability to travel to the field approximately 50% of the time, including spending up to a week or two at a project location.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Valid driver's license and ability to safely operate a 4WD vehicle in remote or backcountry conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D through coursework, projects, co-op experience, or volunteer work.
• Familiarity with GPS devices, digital data collection, and mapping software such as ArcGIS.
• Experience with technical writing or preparing reports.