About the role#
As a Rail Design and Construction Intern, you will apply civil engineering techniques to support the design and construction of freight and transit railroad projects. You will work under the direction of a Licensed Professional Engineer and perform assignments under the direct supervision of a professional or Project Manager. This role offers the chance to gain real-world experience and connect with recent college graduates and company leaders through mentoring and young professional programs.
What you'll do#
- Perform standard AREMA calculations.
- Assist with geometric layout and develop project details.
- Perform quantity development and CADD plan production.
- Conduct occasional site inspections of track or bridge construction.
- Apply standard engineering techniques and procedures to project tasks.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate Engineering program, preferably in Civil Engineering.
- Strong problem-solving and communication skills with high attention to detail.
- Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office.
- A commitment to being an active participant in an employee-owned culture.
- Preferred: Completion of at least 2 years of degree coursework with a 3.0 or higher GPA.
- Preferred: Experience with MicroStation or other CAD design software.
- Preferred: Interest in railroads and construction management.
- Preferred: Local candidates with previous internship experience.
Location & details#
- Location: Rosemont, Illinois.
- Modality: On-site.
- Employment type: Full-time, paid internship.
About HDR
HDR is an employee-owned design firm that provides engineering, architecture, environmental, and construction services. The company operates globally across sectors including healthcare, transportation, energy, and water resources. Headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, it employs over 17,000 people. It maintains a large network of offices to support its diverse project portfolio.
How to get in at HDR
Applying early to HDR is a distinct advantage because recruiters often review candidates as they arrive. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, so you can apply among the first before the pile grows. Reaching the right person at a firm this size can be difficult, but it is often the most effective way to get noticed. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company roles so you can reach out directly to ask about the position or a referral, which materially improves response rates.
