About the role#
PAE is seeking a Mechanical Engineering Intern for the Summer 2027 term. This paid internship provides hands-on experience in 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 planning, execution, and problem solving.
What you'll do#
- Perform CAD and Revit design work.
- Conduct energy modeling and perform design calculations.
- Design HVAC ductwork, hydronic, and plumbing layouts.
- Support construction administration, site visits, and commissioning.
- Gather weather and climatic data to support eco-charrettes.
- Analyze energy and water data, including EUI and WUI.
- Review and prepare cost estimates.
- Prepare site observation reports.
- Coordinate M/E schedules and manage project timelines.
- Work on project specifications.
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 coursework in thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and heat transfer.
- Preferred: Coursework or interest in building sciences and HVAC.
Location & details#
- This is a full-time, on-site internship.
- Available locations: Seattle, WA; San Francisco, CA; New York, NY; Boston, MA; Denver, CO; Portland, OR; and Los Angeles, CA.
- Hourly base rate: $21.00 - $27.00.
- Benefits include a commuter/parking stipend and paid time off for sick leave, community service, and holidays.
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.
