Structural Designer Co-op

Paul J. Ford; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

Paul J. Ford is seeking an Structural Engineering Intern/Co-op in Columbus, OH to gain hands-on experience in structural design and analysis. You will work under licensed engineers, preparing calculations, drawings, and specifications while applying engineering principles to real projects.

The role emphasizes learning industry codes, software such as Revit, AutoCAD, and RISA, and collaborating with the team to deliver accurate project documentation and supportive QA/QC processes.

Qualifications

• Enrolled in a BS Civil or Structural Engineering program (ABET-accredited).
• Strong fundamentals in structural analysis, mechanics of materials, and physics.
• Exposure to CAD software AutoCAD or Revit preferred; familiarity with RISA or similar.

Responsibilities

• Assist with basic design calculations and project documentation.
• Support preparation of drawings andSpecifications under supervision.
• Learn and use Revit, AutoCAD, RISA for plans and details.

Skills

Communication

Organization

Teamwork

Desire to learn

Education

ABET-accredited Civil/Structural Engineering program

Junior or Senior standing

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

RISA

Job description

Position Summary

The Structural Engineering Intern/Co-op provides entry-level technical support to the structural engineering team. This role is designed for students currently enrolled in an engineering program who seek to gain practical experience in structural design and analysis. Working under the close supervision of licensed engineers and designers, the intern assists in preparing calculations, drawings, and specifications while learning to apply engineering principles to real-world projects.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Technical Support and Design

• Assist with structural design and analysis for projects involving steel, concrete, masonry, and wood under the guidance of a supervisor.
• Support the preparation of basic design calculations and project documentation.
• Learn and utilize computer-assisted engineering software (e.g., Revit, AutoCAD, RISA, or similar) to develop plans, sections, and details.
• Assist in researching design options, building codes, and material specifications.
• Prepare redline revisions for existing drawings to ensure accuracy and compliance.

Project Coordination

• Coordinate with CAD technicians and engineers to ensure project files are organized and deliverables are met.
• Participate in internal project meetings and shadow engineers during client or site visits to learn project workflows.
• Support the preparation of cost estimates and project schedules by gathering necessary data.

Quality and Standards

• Follow established QA/QC procedures to check work for accuracy.
• Maintain organized project files, documentation, and calculations in accordance with company standards.
• Contribute to a positive, collaborative, and efficient work environment.
• Learning Objectives and Growth
• Develop a working knowledge of structural engineering codes (IBC, ASCE 7, AISC, ACI, etc.).
• Gain proficiency in industry-standard design and modeling software.
• Understand the professional lifecycle of an engineering project from proposal to construction.

Measures of Success

• Accuracy: Precision in assisted calculations and drafting tasks.
• Learning Curve: Demonstrated growth in software proficiency and understanding of engineering principles.
• Reliability: Timely completion of assigned tasks and adherence to the agreed-upon schedule.
• Collaboration: Positive feedback from the engineering team regarding communication and support.

Education And Experience

• Current Enrollment: Actively pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Civil or Structural Engineering from an ABET-accredited program (typically Junior or Senior standing).
• Academic Foundation: Strong understanding of basic structural analysis, mechanics of materials, and physics.
• Software Skills: Exposure to CAD software (AutoCAD or Revit) is preferred.
• Soft Skills: Strong communication, organization, and a desire to learn.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

• Primarily a sedentary role in a professional office environment.
• Requires standing, walking, sitting, and reaching.
• Occasional site visits may be required, involving exposure to outdoor weather conditions or construction sites.
• Standard business hours, with flexibility to accommodate academic schedules.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position does not have any supervisory responsibilities.