About the role#
PAE is seeking a Mechanical Engineering Intern for a 10 to 12 week program during Summer 2027. You will work directly with our engineering and design teams on projects ranging from small retrofits to high-profile Living Buildings. This is a paid, full-time, on-site role where you will gain hands-on experience in sustainable engineering design.
What you'll do#
- Use CAD and Revit for project documentation.
- Perform energy modeling and analyze energy and water data like EUI and WUI.
- Prepare design calculations and specifications.
- Design HVAC ductwork, hydronic, and plumbing layouts.
- Support construction administration, commissioning, and site visits.
- Gather weather and climatic data and support eco-charrettes.
- Review and prepare cost estimates.
- Coordinate M/E schedules and assist with project timelines.
- Prepare site observation reports.
What you'll need#
- Currently a 3rd-year undergraduate student in Mechanical Engineering.
- Coursework in thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and heat transfer.
- Interest in the building design industry and sustainable design solutions.
- Strong communication skills.
- Preferred: Coursework or interest in building sciences and HVAC.
Location & details#
- This is an on-site internship.
- Available locations: Portland, OR; San Francisco, CA; Seattle, WA; New York, NY; Boston, MA; Denver, CO; and Los Angeles, CA.
- This position does not offer visa sponsorship.
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.
