Student Engineering Intern - Cavern Geomechanics

RESPEC; Rapid City (SD); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

RESPEC in Rapid City, SD is seeking Student Engineering Interns for the 2027 Summer Internship Program. Interns will work with the Mining and Energy Market Sector on real projects under mentorship.

You will gain experience in mechanical engineering topics and software development, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and contributing to data analysis, modeling, and technical communications. This internship provides hands-on exposure to geomechanical studies, simulations, and professional

Qualifications

• Must be pursuing a BS or advanced degree in geological, mechanical, mining, civil engineering or related field.
• Fundamental understanding of solid mechanics, heat transfer, and thermodynamics.
• Basic coding in Python, R, or similar.
• Strong Excel, Word, and PowerPoint skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and communicate clearly.
• Independent study and problem-solving willingness.

Responsibilities

• Assist geomechanical studies of subsurface storage facilities in salt deposits.
• Perform desktop engineering calculations, analysis, and numerical modeling.
• Support collection and analysis of complex data in multiple formats.
• Assist in preparing technical presentations, reports, or deliverables.
• Help develop custom software tools, scripts for numerical modeling.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Problem solving

Python basics

Engineering fundamentals

Education

Bachelor of Science in geological, mechanical, mining, civil engineering or related field

Tools

Python

C/C++

Fortran

Git

FEA software

Job description

RESPEC is seeking Student Engineering Interns to join our 2027 Summer Internship Program in Rapid City, SD. This internship offers a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience with a growing North American engineering consulting firm while working alongside experienced professionals on meaning projects.

As part of RESPEC's Mining and Energy Market Sector, Student Engineering interns will contribute to real-world projects and gain exposure to the delivery of professional consulting services. Through mentorship and coaching from our experienced team members, interns will develop skills in mechanical engineering, including, but not limited to, solid mechanics, thermodynamics, and heat transfer, numerical modeling, data analysis, coding, and technical communications. Interns will also have opportunities to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and gain exposure to related disciplines such as geology, rock mechanics laboratory testing, drilling engineering, and insight into business development and client relations.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Assist with geomechanical engineering studies of subsurface storage facilities in salt deposits
• Perform desktop engineering calculations, analysis, and numerical modeling simulations
• Support the collection and analysis of multiple types of complex data in various formats
• Assist in the preparation of technical presentations, reports, or other project deliverables
• Support the development of custom software tools, scripts, and methods for complex numerical modeling projects

Qualifications

Required:

• Must be working toward a Bachelor of Science or advanced degree in geological, mechanical, mining, civil engineering or related field
• Fundamental understanding of engineering principles related to solid mechanics, heat transfer, and thermodynamics
• Fundamental understanding of coding in a high-level language such as Python, R, or similar
• Strong working knowledge of common office programs such as Excel, Word, PowerPoint
• Ability to work and communicate effectively within a team
• Capable of independent study and problem solving but willing to ask for help when needed

Preferred:

• Strong theoretical understanding and a working knowledge of FEA and numerical modeling software
• Strong computer skills, experience with code development in Python, C/C++, Fortran, and the use of a VCS such as Git
• Solid time management skills and ability to produce accurate, high quality work in an efficient manner
• Working knowledge of advanced mechanical engineering concepts
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Ability to communicate technical ideas effectively, both verbally and in writing

Additional Information

Compensation:

Hourly wage depends on education and experience.

• No benefits are offered except those that are required for statutory purposes.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Company Info

Big challenges need bold thinkers.

If you’re someone who sees problems as opportunities, you’ll thrive here. RESPEC is 100% employee-owned, which means we take ownership of every challenge. Here, your ideas drive real solutions. Since 1969, we’ve tackled complex challenges in energy transition, infrastructure resilience, digital transformation, and sustainability.

At RESPEC, you’ll work alongside clients to take on critical problems. Depending on your expertise, you might design infrastructure in remote locations, develop renewable energy solutions for global projects, or apply data-driven technology to improve mining and water systems.

We bring deep technical knowledge, real-world experience, and a commitment to work that matters. If you're looking for a place where your contributions have real impact, you’ll fit right in.