2026 Student Intern - Software Development & Design Technology

HGA • Minneapolis, MN

1d • $20 - $24 • Hybrid

About The Position

We have an excellent summer opportunity for a student who wishes to gain hands-on experience at the intersection of software development and architectural design technology. In this role, you'll work with Autodesk AEC Data Model APIs to build tools that support sustainability calculations and create applications that leverage design model data.
This position is shared between HGA's Digital Practice and Software Engineering teams, offering unique exposure to how custom software solutions enhance architectural and engineering practice. This is an ideal opportunity for architecture or engineering students with programming skills to apply their design knowledge to building practical software tools. Paid summer internships will be 10-12 weeks beginning on or before June 2, 2025 (some flexibility is available).
Location: Minneapolis, Madison, Milwaukee, Boston, Washington DC, or San Francisco (hybrid)
Application deadline: March 15th, 2026 Interviews conducted: March and April 2026 Offers extended: on or before April 15th, 2026 Summer internship dates: June – Mid-August (with flexibility to start earlier depending on your school schedule)

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a BA, BS, or MS program in Architecture, Architectural Engineering, Interior Design, or a related design field; graduate students and upper-level undergraduates preferred
• Demonstrated programming experience (Python preferred; C#, JavaScript, or Dynamo/Grasshopper scripting also considered); Coursework, personal projects, or computational design work all count
• Familiarity with Revit, Rhino, or other BIM/design software
• Interest in applying technology to improve design workflows, sustainability analysis, or data-driven design decisions
• Demonstrated sensitivity, knowledge, and understanding of the diverse backgrounds in the firm, including regional and culture-specific contexts, with a continuous focus on healthy relationship building

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Autodesk APIs, Revit plugins, or Dynamo scripting
• Exposure to sustainability metrics such as embodied carbon, energy modeling, or LEED documentation
• Familiarity with version control (Git) and collaborative development workflows

Responsibilities

• Develop applications using Autodesk APIs (ACC, Revit, and related platforms) to extract and transform design model data.
• Create tools that convert architectural model data into measurable performance metrics to guide better design and delivery outcomes.
• Create lightweight applications and utilities that help project teams leverage design data more effectively.
• Collaborate with both software developers and design technologists to understand user needs and deliver practical solutions.
• Participate in code reviews and follow software development best practices.
• Help document application architecture, APIs, and user guides.

Benefits

• Hands-on experience building tools actively used on real architectural and engineering projects.
• Exposure to Autodesk platform APIs and AEC industry data workflows.
• Opportunity to contribute to architecture and engineering initiatives through technology.
• Mentorship from experienced software developers and design technology specialists.
• A supportive learning environment that encourages innovation and growth.
• Individuals in this role working more than 24 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in HGA’s robust benefit programs which include an annual bonus and success sharing bonus program, 401(k) guaranteed contribution, paid parental leave, medical, dental and life insurance plans as well as PTO and short- and long-term disability programs.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern