About the role#
This internship offers a chance for civil engineering students to gain experience in the built environment. You will work alongside professionals on infrastructure projects across our civil, land development, water, environmental, and transportation teams. This role is based in Portland for Summer 2027.
What you'll do#
- Research and visit project sites to document existing conditions.
- Perform engineering calculations for design projects.
- Complete manual or AutoCAD drafting tasks.
- Coordinate with government agencies and clients to gather information.
- Manage project correspondence and maintain records.
- Visit construction sites to monitor quality and progress.
- Assist with writing and editing construction specifications.
- Calculate construction bid quantities and estimate costs.
- Support survey crews and perform construction inspections.
- Help lab technicians with materials testing.
What you'll need#
- Completed one to two years of college-level coursework toward a baccalaureate degree in civil engineering.
- A valid driver's license.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Project software.
- Ability to apply mathematical concepts including geometry, trigonometry, probability, and statistics.
- Skills to interpret technical instructions and analyze scientific journals.
- Strong communication skills for interacting with clients and the public.
- AutoCAD knowledge is preferred.
- Prior work experience in construction or civil engineering is helpful.
Location & details#
- Location: Portland, Oregon.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Modality: On-site, full-time.
- Compensation: This is a paid position.
About DOWL
DOWL is a civil engineering firm based in Bellevue, Washington. Founded in 1962, the company provides planning, surveying, and environmental services to public and private clients. It employs 574 staff members across multiple states. The firm specializes in transportation, structural engineering, and water systems.
How to get in at DOWL
Securing an internship at DOWL requires speed because early applicants often get seen before the pile grows. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, helping you apply among the first. This gives you a better chance to have your materials reviewed while the team is still actively screening candidates. Reaching out to the right person is just as important as your timing. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company's roles so you can reach out directly to ask about the position or a referral. A direct connection often improves response rates compared to submitting an application into a general queue.
