Physical Plant Engineering Internship

Penn State University • Ferguson Township, PA

75d • $16 - $17

About The Position

Penn State’s Office of the Physical Plant Design and Construction is excited to offer engineering internship opportunities for Spring 2026 and Summer 2026 in facilities project management, electrical, civil, and mechanical engineering. These internships provide hands-on experience working alongside engineers, project managers, and staff responsible for designing, building, and maintaining the University’s physical spaces. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and two reference letters. Applications will be accepted through January 31, 2026. Cover letters should indicate the specific area of interest. During the fall and spring semesters, interns may work up to 20 hours a week. During the summer, interns are expected to work 40 hours a week. Internships are available at University Park with compensation of $16 per hour for undergraduate and $17 per hour for graduate. This job may require that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid US driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check may be required in addition to standard background checks. Some internships in this program may require US Citizenship.

Requirements

• Students pursuing degrees in architectural engineering, construction management, electrical, electro-mechanical, civil, or mechanical engineering are encouraged to apply.
• A valid US driver’s license may be required.
• Successful completion of a motor vehicle records check may be required.
• Some internships may require US Citizenship.

Responsibilities

• Assist with coordinating project resources, documentation, tracking budgets, and supporting both office and in field activities.
• Update project schedules, participate in construction site visits, design meetings, and help with procurement.
• Prepare documents, updates and revisions to the University Design and Construction Standards.
• Assist troubleshooting electrical systems, reviewing NEC/IEEE codes, drafting in AutoCAD, performing calculations, and assisting with on-site building evaluations.
• Prepare construction drawings and details using AutoCAD Civil3D.
• Develop and prepare engineering proposals, attend job conferences and other project-related meetings, and document and distribute meeting minutes.
• Assist with HVAC, plumbing, and control system evaluations, updating mechanical design standards, performing heating and cooling load calculations, and drafting in AutoCAD.

Benefits

• Compensation of $16 per hour for undergraduate interns.
• Compensation of $17 per hour for graduate interns.
• Hands-on experience working alongside professionals in the field.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree