Engineering Intern – Salem, VA

Austincc; Salem (VA); On-site; USD 20,664 - 34,440; Full time

Job summary

A state transportation department is seeking an Engineering Intern for summer 2026 in Salem, Virginia. This hands-on role involves supporting engineering projects through effective communication with staff and external consultants, performing equipment maintenance, and maintaining project documentation. Candidates should be rising sophomores or above, majoring in Engineering or a related field and possess strong problem-solving and organizational skills. This internship offers a valuable opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a practical setting.

Qualifications

• Be at least a rising sophomore, enrolled in a college or university.
• Have a basic knowledge of engineering principles.
• Must be at least 18 years of age by the start of employment.

Responsibilities

• Communicate with VDOT staff and external contacts.
• Apply engineering technology principles to assigned programs.
• Perform routine maintenance and repairs on equipment.
• Prepare and maintain daily documentation of project activities.
• Maintain accurate records for all project activities.

Skills

Effective communication

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Proficiency in MS Office

Education

Minimum of 12 credit hours per semester

Undergraduate study in Engineering or related field

Job description

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Launch your career with VDOT! Salem District is recruiting an Engineering Intern to join our team for summer 2026! We're seeking motivated students ready to turn classroom knowledge into real-world impact. In this hands-on role, you'll support engineering projects through communication with staff and consultants, equipment maintenance, project documentation, and accurate record keeping. You'll apply engineering technology principles, interpret policies and procedures, and contribute to solutions that keep Virginia moving. Success in this role comes from strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills, as well as proficiency with MS Office. If you're eager to learn, apply your technical knowledge, and gain valuable field experience while building your professional future–this opportunity is for you!

Job Description

Perform special duties as assigned. As a student, engage and participate in planned and education-related work experiences that integrate the knowledge and theory gained in the academic setting with practical application and skill development in the workplace.

How you will contribute:

• Communication: Communicate with VDOT staff as well as external contacts and consultants. Proactively resolve issues at the lowest level. Project a positive VDOT image. Keep supervisor advised of important development and field observations.
• Engineering Technology: Apply principles and practices of engineering technology to assigned programs areas. Interpret policies and procedures and apply in daily work assignments.
• Equipment Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance and repairs on testing equipment. Follow appropriate guidelines for equipment storage, use, and transport.
• Perform Duties as Assigned:
• Project Documentation: Prepare and maintain daily documentation of project activities. Ensure documentation is submitted and is completed. Avoid project delays and solve project related matters.
• Record Keeping : Maintains accurate records for all project activities. Enters and updates data to meet required deadlines and requirements. Interprets and applies relevant policies and procedures.

What will make you successful:

• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to perform manual labor (securing, handling, and preparing materials samples).
• Ability to read and interpret engineering plans and specifications.
• Knowledge of mathematics up to and including algebra and geometry.
• Skill in the use of computers, software applications to include MS Office, and smart phones.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Be at least a rising sophomore (2nd year), enrolled in undergraduate study in a two-year or four-year college/university.
• Complete a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester for undergraduate students and 9 credit hours per semester for graduate students. Students must be enrolled full-time at the time of application.
• Graduate students are eligible to apply.
• Have a basic knowledge of engineering principles.
• Must be at least 18 years of age by the start of employment.
• Second year or transferring Community College students may apply.

Additional Considerations:

• A combination of training, experience, or education in Engineering, or related field desired.
• Ability to anticipate problems, provide solutions, follow instructions, learn quickly, and collaborate with teammates.
• Ability to make quality and timely decisions.
• Ability to work independently and in teams.