Engineering Intern - Bristol, VA
Virginia Department of Transportation
Internship
Closes on Saturday, October 3, 2026
Job Description
Are you looking for a Roadmap for your future? VDOT’s Internship Program focuses on introducing undergraduate and graduate students to the importance of public service while understanding the critical needs of our organization through paid summer work experience. Candidates must be at least a rising sophomore (or equivalent) to be eligible to apply. The program provides for guided real work experience in various occupational disciplines related to engineering, and other functional areas within VDOT. Learning focuses on technical and self-leadership skills needed for the individual and potentially for VDOT. Depending on VDOT’s business needs and performance, interns may have the opportunity to extend their internship into the academic year.
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Job Description
Perform special duties as assigned. As a student, engage and participate in planned and education-related work experiences that integrate the knowledge and theory gained in the academic setting with practical application and skill development in the workplace.
How you will contribute:
- Communication: Communicate with VDOT staff as well as external contacts and consultants. Proactively resolve issues at the lowest level. Project a positive VDOT image. Keep supervisor advised of important development and field observations.
- Engineering Technology: Apply principles and practices of engineering technology to assigned programs areas. Interpret policies and procedures and apply in daily work assignments.
- Equipment Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance and repairs on testing equipment. Follow appropriate guidelines for equipment storage, use, and transport.
- Perform Duties as Assigned:
- Project Documentation: Prepare and maintain daily documentation of project activities. Ensure documentation is submitted and is completed. Avoid project delays and solve project related matters.
- Record Keeping : Maintains accurate records for all project activities. Enters and updates data to meet required deadlines and requirements. Interprets and applies relevant policies and procedures.
What will make you successful:
- Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
- Ability to perform manual labor (securing, handling, and preparing materials samples).
- Ability to read and interpret engineering plans and specifications.
- Knowledge of mathematics up to and including algebra and geometry.
- Skill in the use of computers, software applications to include MS Office, and smart phones.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Currently enrolled full-time in an Associate’s degree program or higher.
- Have a basic knowledge of engineering principles.
- Must be at least 18 years of age by the start of employment.
- Must maintain a full-time graduate status taking 9 or more credit hours per semester at a college/university before and following internship.
- Must maintain a full-time undergraduate status taking 12 or more credit hours per semester at a community college or 4-year college/university before and following internship.
Additional Considerations:
- A combination of training, experience, or education in Engineering, or related field desired.
- Ability to anticipate problems, provide solutions, follow instructions, learn quickly, and collaborate with teammates.
- Ability to make quality and timely decisions.
- Ability to work independently and in teams.