About the role#
This is a paid, full-time internship for the Summer 2027 term. You will work directly with our engineering and design teams on projects ranging from small retrofits to high-profile buildings. This program offers hands-on experience in sustainable engineering design and the building design industry.
What you'll do#
- Use CAD and Revit for design tasks.
- Perform energy modeling and design calculations.
- Create layouts for HVAC ductwork, hydronic systems, and plumbing.
- Conduct construction administration, site visits, and site observation reports.
- Assist with commissioning and eco-charrettes.
- Gather weather and climatic data.
- Analyze energy and water data, including EUI and WUI metrics.
- Prepare cost estimates and specifications.
- Manage project timelines and mechanical/electrical coordination schedules.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment as a 3rd-year undergraduate student is preferred.
- A strong interest in the building design industry and sustainable design solutions.
- Effective communication skills.
- Completed coursework in Thermodynamics, Fluid Dynamics, and Heat Transfer.
- Preferred background in Building Sciences or HVAC systems.
Location & details#
This is an on-site position. You may work from one of our offices in Denver, San Francisco, Seattle, New York, Boston, Portland, or Los Angeles.
About PAE
PAE is an engineering and design firm founded in 1967. Based in Portland, Oregon, the company employs between 201 and 500 people. It specializes in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering alongside technology systems design and energy modeling. As a certified B Corporation, the firm focuses on building resilience and efficiency for its clients.
How to get in at PAE
Securing an internship at PAE requires proactive timing 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 anywhere, so you can apply among the first. This gives you a better chance to have your materials reviewed by the team. You can also improve your odds by reaching out to the right people. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company roles so you can contact them directly to ask about the position or a referral, which materially improves response rates compared to submitting into a general queue.


