About the role#
The Iowa Department of Transportation is hiring an intern for the Traffic Engineering section. You will work under the supervision of a professional engineer on the operations side of traffic safety. This role offers exposure to highway safety, transportation planning, and traffic operations. You will support the team through administrative tasks and technical design work.
What you'll do#
- Design and order new or replacement signs for primary highways.
- Review site conditions using Google Earth, as-built plans, and internal resources.
- Use SignCAD or other drafting software to draw non-standard signs.
- Submit fabrication orders to the DOT Sign Shop.
- Maintain the sign inventory database.
- Prepare monthly cost reports for the Type A Sign replacement project.
- Learn state and federal signing policies, including the MUTCD and Traffic and Safety Manual.
- Attend project meetings, participate in field reviews, and join workshops or conferences.
What you'll need#
- Completion of at least two years in civil, construction, materials, or transportation engineering, or an engineering management curriculum.
- Eligibility for junior status upon returning to school.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Adobe products.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work independently or in a team.
- Interest in traffic engineering concepts, plan development, and cost estimating.
- CADD software experience is helpful but not required.
Location & details#
- Location: Ames, Iowa.
- Work Modality: On-site.
- Pay: $19.76 per hour.
- Schedule: Up to 20 hours per week from January through May, with the potential to continue through the summer.
About State of Iowa - Executive Branch
The State of Iowa Executive Branch delivers public services through 16 distinct agencies. These departments manage sectors ranging from agriculture and transportation to public health and corrections. Established in 1858, the organization employs over 10,000 people. It focuses on efficiency and service delivery for the citizens of Iowa.
How to get in at State of Iowa - Executive Branch
Applying early for a role at the State of Iowa Executive Branch gives you a significant advantage before the applicant pool grows. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, ensuring you are among the first to submit your materials. Getting your application in early often means it is reviewed before the pile becomes unmanageable. You can find the recruiters behind these government roles through Intern Insider to reach out directly. Asking a specific question about the department or requesting a referral can materially improve your response rates compared to submitting into a general queue. This direct approach helps you stand out in a large organization.
