Insights How to find an engineering intern job in the US

What is an engineering internship? 

An engineering internship is a temporary placement where a student or graduate gets practical experience in their field of study with a company. It is an opportunity to make connections, gain real-world experience, and a great jumping-off point for your future career as it will open up new opportunities. 

At AtkinsRéalis , we’ve fostered a collaborative culture and a continuous learning environment - that is perfect for interns. At every stage of your career, we’ll provide you with the support and training to help you learn and acquire what you need to succeed. 

Finding an engineering internship can seem daunting but we’ve put together some tips to help you understand the process and what you can expect so it’s a little bit easier for you. 

What does an engineering internship typically involve? 

Depending on the company and industry you go for, the tasks and responsibilities will vary. Generally speaking, interns will get the chance to work on real-world projects alongside experienced engineers. Here are some responsibilities you can expect: 

• Conducting research and development for your team 
• Analyzing data 
• Supporting your team in designing and testing engineering prototypes 
• Collaborating with your team on a shared goal
• Professional development - training sessions, documenting your work and presenting your findings to your supervisor 

Through these tasks, you will develop skills such as communication, time management, teamwork, and many more. 

Types of engineering

Internships allow you to understand what aspects of the job you might be more interested in and the types of companies and industries you prefer. It is a way to test out the waters before finding your ideal career destination. There are a variety of engineering careers to choose from including: 

• Structural engineering - involves the design, analysis and construction of structures such as buildings and bridges. 
• Civil engineering - focused on the design and construction of infrastructure such as roads and airports. 
• Electrical engineering - involves the development and maintenance of electrical systems such as power generation and transmission. 
• Mechanical engineering - oversees the analysis and manufacturing of mechanical systems such as engines and robots. 
• Water engineering - ensures water supplies remain clean, wastewater and sewage are correctly disposed of and builds water structures such as pipe networks and pump systems.

Through your internship, you’ll be able to identify your strengths and weaknesses, and that will help decide the type of engineering you would like to pursue. It’s an important decision to make, so you want to make sure you’re starting your career in the right direction.

Steps to finding an engineering internship 

Prepare your resume and cover letter 

Your resume and cover letter are the first impression your potential employer has of you. Both pieces need to effectively convey why you would be a good fit for the internship and what skills you can bring to the table. You can do this by highlighting your education, qualifications and accomplishments. Finessing your resume is how you will stand out from the crowd. 

Personalization goes a long way with resumes and cover letters as it demonstrates that you are genuinely interested in the company and role, you’ve done your research, and you are willing to go the extra mile. 

We are looking for people with the right skills, but your passion and enthusiasm are what will make you stand out at AtkinsRéalis . If you can demonstrate this in your resume and interviews, you’ll be an ideal candidate. 

Research companies 

No two companies are the same and each company comes with its own culture and set of values. Working for a company that aligns with your values matters. It ensures that you will enjoy your work environment, collaboration with your colleagues, and the job itself. 

Wondering what the culture at AtkinsRéalis is like? There is no better endorsement of our company culture than hearing from the people that make us what we are today. We know that our success is due to the hard work and dedication of our worldwide team of experts. 

Understanding the company's mission also allows you to tailor your resume and cover letter to show how your skills and experience align with the company’s mission and values. 

If your desired company sees value in your resume and cover letter, the next stage is interviewing. It is standard practice to have a base level of understanding of what the company does and its mission at this stage. This means you will be prepared for any company-related questions and shows that you have done your homework. 

Then when you receive internship offers, it allows you to make informed decisions based on all of the information you have gathered for each company. You will be in a better position to select the best fit for you and your career goals. 

What will an engineering internship look like at AtkinsRéalis ?

Our mission is to engineer a better future for our planet and its people. You’ll get the chance to enjoy many challenging opportunities to work with global clients on very exciting projects. 

Our values represent how we act, speak, and behave together, and how we engage with our clients and stakeholders. Safety, integrity, innovation and collaboration are at the heart of everything we do at AtkinsRéalis . If given the opportunity to join our talented team, you’ll notice how every one of our colleagues demonstrates these values in their work. 
We seek results-oriented problem solvers, creative thinkers, and performance-driven professionals. Does this sound like you? Apply for an engineering internship in the US today.