Rail Design and Construction Intern

Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising; Rosemont (IL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

HDR is seeking a Rail Design and Construction Intern to contribute to freight and transit rail projects. You will apply civil engineering techniques, perform AREMA calculations, and assist with geometric layout, detailing, and quantity development under the guidance of a Licensed Professional Engineer.

The internship offers real-world experience, mentoring, and exposure to HDR's employee-owned culture; prior CAD experience such as MicroStation is a plus. Full-time temporary role in our network.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate Engineering program.
• Possess strong problem-solving and communication skills.
• Basic Microsoft Office skills.
• Attitude and commitment to HDR's employee-owned culture.

Responsibilities

• Apply civil engineering techniques to support design and construction of rail projects.
• Perform AREMA calculations and assist with geometric layout.
• Develop details and quantities; produce CADD plans.
• Occasional site inspections; work under Licensed Professional Engineer supervision.

Skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

Undergrad/Grad Engineering program

2 years completed toward degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Rail Design and Construction Intern - ( 196098 )

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?

Watch Our Story: https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story

Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.

We believe transportation is more than movement, it’s the foundation of connected, thriving communities. As part of HDR’s Transportation Business Group, you’ll help shape the systems that move people and goods safely, efficiently, and sustainably. From designing resilient highways and iconic bridges to advancing transit, passenger and freight rail, aviation, federal transportation ports and marine infrastructure, your work will directly support economic vitality, public safety, sustainable and resilient communities and quality of life. We bring together planners, engineers, architects, construction management staff, environmental, strategic communications, economists, management consultants and specialists across disciplines to solve complex mobility challenges with innovation, technical excellence, and a deep understanding of community needs. Whether you’re modernizing aging infrastructure or pioneering next-generation transportation solutions, your contributions will help define the future of mobility. This isn’t just a job, it’s a chance to lead progress, drive meaningful impact, and leave a legacy of smarter, more connected transportation networks. We are all employee-owners at HDR, which is the foundation of our collaborative culture that connects employees around the world.

The primary responsibilities will be to apply civil engineering techniques to support the design and construction of freight and transit railroad projects. Additional duties include performing standard AREMA calculations, assisting with geometric layout, developing details, and quantity development. Occasional site inspections of track and/or bridge construction may be required. CADD plan production will also be required. This person will work under the direction of a Licensed Professional Engineer on both local and national projects.

Rail and Construction Intern

• Gain real-world experience on exciting projects
• Connect with recent college graduates and our company leaders through mentoring and young professional's programs
• Apply standard engineering techniques and procedures
• Perform assignments under the direct supervision of a professional or Project Manager
• Perform other duties as needed

Preferred Qualifications

• Prefer 2 years completed toward degree with 3.0+ GPA
• Demonstrated knowledge of software packages related to field of study/industry

Interest in railroads preferred

Interest in construction management preferred

Experience with MicroStation or other CAD design software preferred

Preference given to local candidates with internship experience.

Required Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate Engineering program
• Possess strong problem-solving and communication skills
• Basic Microsoft Office skills
• An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe

HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.

Our Commitment

As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.

Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

Schedule

Full-time

Employee Status

Temporary

Job Posting

Sep 10, 2026

At HDR, we are committed to the principles of employment equity.

We are an affirmative action and Equal Opportunity Employe r.

We consider all qualified applicants, regardless of criminal histories, arrest and conviction records.