Job Description

Posting number: 27-01353

Department: 645 Iowa Department of Transportation

Job classification: Transportation Student Co-op

Posting type: Open

Categories: Engineering, Transportation, Internship

Summary

Join the Construction & Materials Bureau and gain hands-on experience supporting bridge construction projects across Iowa. This internship provides the opportunity to work alongside professional engineers and construction staff, applying engineering principles to real-world challenges while learning about bridge construction, materials, design, research, and transportation infrastructure operations.

Intern Duties:

• Assist structural engineering field staff with bridge construction activities, including plan reviews, site visits, materials testing, and research.
• Support the development and revision of engineering specifications, guidance documents, and training materials.
• Gain hands-on experience with bridge construction practices and real-world engineering problem solving.
• Observe and assist with construction inspections and field evaluations.
• Learn how engineering principles are applied to address construction challenges and project issues.
• Collaborate with professionals across multiple DOT areas, including bridge design, materials, research, and construction offices.
• Develop an understanding of Central Construction's role in supporting bridge construction projects throughout the state.
• Build technical knowledge and professional skills through exposure to transportation engineering projects and operations.

Location: Ames, Iowa

Desired Skills:

Interest in bridge construction, transportation engineering, materials, or construction inspection.

Ability to apply engineering coursework to practical field and office assignments.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Attention to detail, sound judgment, and a willingness to learn.

Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and the ability to learn engineering software and documentation systems.

Duration: May – August 2027, Up to 20 hours/week during school semesters and up to 40 hours/week during summer and breaks

Qualifications

Completion of at least two years in civil, construction, materials, or transportation engineering, or in an engineering management curriculum at an accredited four-year college or university with eligibility for junior status upon return to school.