Transportation Engineer Intern

Pape-Dawson, Tennessee; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Pape-Dawson seeks a Transportation Engineer Intern for summer 2027 in our Nashville office to support roadway design tasks under a licensed Professional Engineer. This entry-level position offers hands-on learning with design tools, reports, and project coordination within a collaborative team.

The role focuses on plan development, design analysis, and preparing exhibits and notes using MicroStation, ORD, AutoCAD Civil 3D and standard office software, with supervision and mentorship throughout

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
• Familiarity with engineering principles, practices, and procedures.
• Basic proficiency with design software and MS Office tools.
• Effective written and verbal communication; able to work independently and in a team.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning and design of roadway projects including plans, specs, and cost estimates.
• Evaluate design alternatives by analyzing sections, alignments, ROW needs, and costs.
• Support reviews of transportation plans for compliance with standards and scope.
• Develop and evaluate design options based on objectives and constraints.
• Use MicroStation and ORD to produce drawings, exhibits, and supporting documents.
• Assist with technical reports, memoranda, and studies using approved formats.
• Participate in site visits, field activities, and data collection as assigned.
• Assist with redlines, submittals, and as-built drawings.

Skills

Engineering fundamentals

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

ABET-accredited BS in Civil Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD Civil 3D

MicroStation

OpenRoads Designer

Microsoft Word

Excel

Job description

Job Description: Pape-Dawson is seeking Transportation Engineer Interns in our Nashville office for the summer of 2027 focusing on roadway design. The Engineer Intern supports project teams under the supervision of a licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.), assisting with design tasks on a variety of infrastructure projects within transportation. This entry-level role provides hands-on experience with design tools, technical documentation, and project coordination within a collaborative engineering environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the planning and design of roadway and highway projects, including preparation of plans, specifications, and cost estimates
• Evaluate design alternatives by analyzing typical sections, alignments, right-of-way needs, and cost considerations
• Support reviews of transportation plans and documents for compliance with applicable standards and project scope
• Develop and evaluate design alternatives by analyzing basic engineering parameters, project objectives, and constraints
• Analyze key design features to ensure alignment with project purpose, technical requirements, and applicable standards
• Utilize computer-aided engineering and design software (e.g., MicroStation and ORD) to produce drawings, exhibits, and supporting documents
• Support the preparation of technical reports, memoranda, and engineering studies using company-approved formats
• Participate in site visits, field activities, construction observation, and data collection as assigned
• Assist with redlines, submittals, preparation of exhibits, and record (as-built) drawings
• Engage in progressively more complex design tasks as experience, proficiency, and technical understanding develop
• Additional related duties as needed

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from an ABET-accredited college or university
• Familiarity with engineering principles, practices, and procedures.
• Basic proficiency with AutoCAD Civil 3D, MicroStation, Open Roads Designer, Microsoft Word, and Excel
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Adaptable and flexible in managing shifting priorities and deadlines

Pape-Dawson’s Tennessee office, formerly RaganSmith, was founded in 1933 as a land surveying company. More than nine decades later, we have grown into an interdisciplinary consulting firm of experienced civil engineers, landscape architects, transportation experts, savvy surveyors, and brilliant land planners serving the private and public sectors. In 2024, RaganSmith joined the Pape-Dawson family of companies. Pape-Dawson is an industry-leading, future-focused civil engineering and professional services firm with nationwide locations.

EEO Statement

All qualified applicants for Pape-Dawson Engineers will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Pape-Dawson is a leading civil engineering and professional services firm, with a history of delivering award-winning infrastructure and development projects with national impact. Our diverse team of experts is passionate about solving complex problems and making a difference in our communities. We offer career opportunities in a company culture that values personal growth and professional excellence. With world-class benefits and a commitment to your overall wellbeing, Pape-Dawson is a place where you can thrive both personally and professionally.