Civil and Structural Engineer Intern (Summer 2027)

Zipline•South San Francisco, CA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Zipline is the world’s largest and most experienced drone delivery service, aiming to serve all humans equally by ensuring access to food, medicine, and essential goods. They design, build, and operate the world’s largest autonomous logistics system, making deliveries globally. The company is looking for practical problem solvers who thrive on real-world challenges and rapid growth, motivated by building systems with a direct, meaningful impact. The Ground Systems Deployment and Construction team is responsible for developing functional drone charging sites, working with a cross-functional team of engineers and construction professionals to deliver world-class construction execution on time and on budget. This role will support the rollout of Zipline’s site infrastructure and contribute to shaping how UAS infrastructure integrates with the built environment. The intern will support the structural engineering of ground systems hardware and site infrastructure, working closely with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance with Zipline’s engineering requirements and municipal codes. This position is based at Zipline's headquarters in South San Francisco.

Requirements

Must have completed the second year of undergraduate studies in Civil or Structural Engineering. Master's and PhD students are also eligible.
Proficiency in Bluebeam and drafting software such as AutoCAD or Revit.
Excellent communications and problem solving skills.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with building codes and developing site plans.

Responsibilities

Support the civil and structural design of new Zipline sites, including charging infrastructure, foundations, equipment pads, and other ground-system elements.
Perform structural calculations and help develop drawings and design documentation that support permitting, construction, and site deployment.
Help create and improve reusable design standards for charging sites and ground-system hardware, then adapt those standards to real-world site constraints.
Support permitting and regulatory reviews by helping address comments and coordinate with municipalities, inspectors, consultants, and other external partners.
Collaborate with teams across Real Estate & Development, Systems Engineering, Tower Engineering, construction, and deployment to understand how engineering decisions affect site layout, constructability, and operations.
Evaluate site-specific engineering challenges and develop practical solutions that improve safety, constructability, cost, and speed of deployment.
Gain hands-on experience taking infrastructure from early site concepts through permitting and construction, while learning how civil and structural engineering is applied to a rapidly scaling UAS network.