About the role#
HDR is seeking an engineering student for a four-month structural co-op placement. You will join our Building Engineering Services Group in downtown Vancouver to work on various building and non-building structural projects. This role involves managing multiple tasks across different stages of design and construction. You will receive mentorship from our structural team and have access to subject matter experts throughout the company.
What you'll do#
- Apply standard engineering techniques and procedures under the supervision of a professional or Project Manager.
- Conduct design calculations and element design for steel, concrete, mass timber, and masonry structures.
- Produce sketches and drawings to communicate design concepts.
- Review and interpret documentation to support construction activities.
- Participate in field reviews and investigations, including the preparation of field reports based on your observations.
- Connect with recent graduates and company leaders through mentorship and young professionals programs.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate Engineering program.
- Preference for students who have completed at least two years of their degree with a 3.0+ GPA.
- Knowledge of engineering principles for wood, steel, concrete, and masonry structural systems.
- Proficiency in CAD software such as Revit, AutoCAD, and Bluebeam Revu.
- Experience with structural analytical programs like SAP2000, ETABS, SAFE, RESA3D, RAM, or RFEM.
- Strong problem-solving, communication, and Microsoft Office skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Past experience working with an engineering firm is considered an asset.
- A commitment to participating in our employee-owned culture.
Location & details#
- Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
- Modality: On-site.
- Term: Winter 2027.
- Status: Full-time, paid position.
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.



