Student Engineering Intern - Cavern Geomechanics

RE/SPEC Inc.; Rapid City (SD); On-site; USD 29,000 - 34,000; Part time

Job summary

RESPEC is seeking a temporary engineering intern in the Mining & Energy Division in Rapid City, SD, for the summer of 2026. The role focuses on numerical analysis of underground structures, data analysis, and engineering support under supervision.

Ideal candidates are pursuing a BS or advanced degree in mechanical, civil, geological, or mining engineering, with strong computational skills, familiarity with CAE/3D CAD, and some programming experience in Python, C++, or VBA.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a bachelor of science or advanced degree in mechanical, civil, geological, mining engineering, or related field.
• Strong computer skills with spreadsheets and standard office software.
• Familiarity with CAE software, 3D CAD, and numerical analysis tools preferred.

Responsibilities

• Numerical analysis of underground structures.
• Engineering support and data analysis under supervision.
• Develop and assess numerical modeling workflows using Python, C++, VBA or other languages.

Skills

Python

C++

VBA

Education

BS in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CAE software

3D CAD

Job description

• Intern
• Discipline: Mechanical Engineering
• Compensation: USD 21 - USD 25 - hourly

Company Description

RESPEC has an opening for a temporary part-time engineering intern in the Mining & Energy Division in the Rapid City, South Dakota, office.

Founded in 1969, RESPEC is a global, 100 percent employee-owned consulting and services company dedicated to delivering innovative solutions to complex challenges for private and public clients. Operating in 14 U.S. states and 2 Canadian provinces, with influence extending to 50 countries worldwide, RESPEC is a leader in water, mining, energy, natural resources, and infrastructure services. Our six market sectors—Mining & Energy, Water, Facilities, Transportation, Development Services, and Data & Technology—reflect our expertise and commitment to excellence. At RESPEC, we thrive on collaboration and partnership, applying advanced technology to achieve sustainable solutions and drive our projects forward. We are deeply invested in our employees’ success and well-being, fostering a supportive and innovative work environment where everyone can grow and contribute meaningfully. Our commitment to excellence is evident in our contributions to local communities and strategic alliances worldwide, ensuring that we continue to inspire and innovate in rapidly evolving technical environments.

Job Description

The intern will be expected to work 40 hours a week during the summer of 2026.

Primary activities include numerical analysis of underground structures, engineering support, and data analysis. Supplemental activities may involve development and assessment of numerical modeling pre- or post-processing workflows, including specialized scripts and software utilities using Python, C++, VBA, or other programming language. The successful candidate will work under the direct supervision of experienced engineering staff in these areas.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have the following:

• Must be working toward a bachelor of science or advanced degree in mechanical, civil, geological, mining engineering, or related field
• Strong computer skills in using spreadsheets and standard office software are required
• Familiarity with CAE software, such as finite element analysis, pre- and post-processing for numerical analysis, and 3D CAD software is preferred
• Excellent interpersonal skills, be able to communicate effectively in writing and orally, and be self-motivated
• A strong working knowledge of a high-level programming language is preferred.

Additional Information

Compensation: Hourly wage depends on education and experience, plus statutory insurance requirements.

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