Summer Intern (App State Career Fair)

J.M. Cope, Inc•Hickory, NC

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Our Internship Program is designed to provide hands-on experience for students pursuing a career in the construction industry. The program offers interns the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of commercial construction, from project planning and management to field operations and safety compliance. Great people achieve great results. At J.M. Cope, we have put together a dedicated team that values both the quality of our work and our relationships. Our goal is to improve the lives of those around us. This internship is crucial for empowering others to take on leadership roles. The internship will span 10–12 weeks (with flexibility depending on school schedules) and will involve both field and office-based tasks, allowing interns to gain a well-rounded understanding of the commercial construction process. Key Program Dates Program Start May 18, 2026 Program End July 31, 2026 Final Presentations Week of July 27, 2026 PROGRAM GOALS Provide real-world experience in commercial construction and project management. Expose interns to different departments, including project management, estimating, and field operations. Foster professional growth through guidance from experienced construction professionals. Develop strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills. WHO ARE WE? Everything we do at JM Cope is centered around Building Leaders Who Build Community. Driven by a desire to improve our communities and build leaders, J.M. Cope team members focus on honesty, collaboration, and strong work ethics. Our Values Team First - As we are "All In" together Integrity - That is built on trust, driven by honesty Humility - To Listen, Learn and Lead Proactive - By running towards & solving the problem Excellence - By raising the bar with every project PROGRAM STRUCTURE Option 1 – Project Management Program (10–12 Weeks) Onboarding & Company Overview Field Operations Project Management Office Exposure (BD, VP or President) Option 2 – Field / Trades Program (2–3 Summers) ½–1 Summer in Carpentry / Laborer ½–1 Summer in Field Operations ½–1 Summer in Field Engineer / Project Engineer Job Description The Construction Internship at J.M. Cope, Inc. provides relevant field and office experience for construction/engineering students. Our internship program provides a realistic view of what it's like to work in construction through meaningful, hands-on experiences. Our interns assume a wide variety of responsibilities during their time with J.M. Cope, Inc. The Construction Intern is responsible for performing various task to aid daily operations at the jobsite during all phases of construction. You will learn by performing task under the guidance of more experienced workers. The Construction Intern is able to understand instructions and carry them out efficiently within the given deadline.

Requirements

Enrolled in a construction-related degree program (Engineering – EE, ME, CE, Engineering Technology, Construction Management, or related degree program) at an accredited college/university; prior construction experience or military service a plus.
Knowledge of technology, computers and software, including standard MS Office applications Project, Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, etc.), ProCore, Adobe, BlueBeam
Good listening skills – the ability communicate with coworkers
Dependable and punctual for all work-related commitments.
A good team player, self-confident, motivated, and independent.
Dedicated team building, interpersonal, decision making, problem solving and negotiating skills needed.
Candidates must possess a strong work ethic.
Background check and Driver’s License required.
Transportation to and from jobsite.

Nice To Haves

prior construction experience or military service a plus.

Responsibilities

Assist in the coordination of on-site construction and engineering activities for construction projects.
Interpret design/drawings, specifications, submittals, and other construction documents.
Assist Superintendents, Project Managers, Engineers, and Coordinators with project-related technical and logistical functions.
May include subcontractor and supplier planning/administration, work assignments, etc.
Dig or direct digging of post holes and set poles to support structures.
Assist in placing and setting slabs and sidewalks
Assist in framing wood, metal studs and blocking.
Tie rebar, wire mat and poly
Capable of using basic hand tools and power tools
Capable of moving and climbing ladders
Capable of performing physical task in areas that are dirty and loud.
Perform task such as job clean up, assisting coworkers with installation of accessories.
Measure materials or distances, using square, measuring tape, or rule to lay out work.
Cut or saw boards, timbers, or plywood to required size, using handsaw, power saw, or woodworking machine with supervision.
Update project records as needed.
Understands overall safety culture of J.M. Cope.
Assist PM with applications, contracts, cost estimates and change orders
Learns the meeting processes, able to record and distribute correct meeting minutes and notes when required.
Understands importance of proper means of communication and teamwork. (PROCORE Certified on meetings - OAC, Subcontractor coordination, internal staff/team, ETC.)
Helps with the punch list to completion.
Must be able to follow company policies and procedures.
Take initiative to complete task and look for opportunities to assist other employees.
Performs other related duties, actions and responsibilities as needed.