About the role#
This is a 10 to 12 week paid internship program focused on sustainable engineering design. You will work directly with our engineering and design teams on projects ranging from small retrofits to high-profile Living Buildings. You will gain exposure to the entire design process, including project planning, execution, and problem solving.
What you'll do#
- Perform CAD and Revit work.
- Conduct energy modeling and analyze energy and water data, such as EUI and WUI.
- Prepare design calculations and specifications.
- Design layouts for HVAC ductwork, hydronic systems, and plumbing.
- Support construction administration, commissioning, and eco-charrettes.
- Gather weather and climatic data.
- Conduct site visits and prepare site observation reports.
- Review and prepare cost estimates and M/E coordination schedules.
- Provide general project timeline overviews.
What you'll need#
- Third-year undergraduate student status is preferred.
- A strong desire to work in the building design industry.
- Interest in sustainable design solutions.
- Effective communication skills.
- Completed mechanical coursework in thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and heat transfer.
- Experience or coursework in building sciences and HVAC is preferred.
Location & details#
- This is a full-time, on-site internship for Summer 2027.
- Positions are available in Boston, MA; San Francisco, CA; Seattle, WA; New York, NY; Denver, CO; Portland, OR; and Los Angeles, CA.
- Hourly base rate: $21.00 - $27.00.
- Benefits include an employer-paid commuter or parking stipend, paid time off for sick leave, holidays, and community service, and the opportunity to join internal committees.
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.
