Construction Operations Intern

Job Summary:

Assist and learn from experienced Estimators, Surveyors, Project Engineers, Project Managers, and Superintendents in the planning, estimating, surveying, administration, and execution of heavy highway, site development, and civil construction projects. This internship provides broad exposure to preconstruction, surveying, project management, engineering, and field operations while developing a comprehensive understanding of the heavy civil construction project lifecycle. This hourly, non-exempt position works under direct supervision while developing practical construction operations skills.

Essential Functions

• Assist with preparing reports, correspondence, project documentation, bid packages, and other project-related documents.
• Review plans, specifications, engineering drawings, and contract documents.
• Perform quantity takeoffs using estimating software and project plans.
• Research material pricing, subcontractor quotations, productivity data, and historical project information.
• Assist with preparing estimates, change orders, progress payments, force accounts, work authorizations, and other project documentation.
• Support project scheduling and maintain project schedules.
• Assist with shop drawing and submittal review and processing.
• Coordinate project documentation and maintain project files.
• Participate in project meetings and communicate with project managers, superintendents, subcontractors, suppliers, owners, and other project stakeholders as appropriate.
• Gain exposure to PennDOT ECMS processes and construction documentation.
• Observe and assist with project coordination, contract administration, and field operations.
• Assist survey crews with construction layout, staking, grade verification, and field measurements.
• Assist with collecting, recording, and organizing survey field notes and other project data.
• Gain exposure to surveying equipment, GPS technology, and construction layout methods.
• Shadow construction management personnel to gain an understanding of project planning, execution, and closeout.
• Safely operate company vehicles while traveling between offices, construction projects, and survey locations.
• Exercise proper care and maintenance of company equipment.
• Perform additional assignments as directed by the supervisor.

Knowledge Of

• Civil engineering and construction principles.
• Construction estimating techniques and cost control.
• Construction documents and contract administration.
• Project scheduling concepts.
• Basic surveying principles and construction layout.
• Microsoft Office and common construction software.
• AutoCAD Civil (preferred).
• Estimating software.
• GPS and construction layout technology (preferred).
• PennDOT ECMS (preferred).

Ability To

• Read and interpret plans, specifications, contracts, and engineering drawings.
• Perform mathematical calculations accurately.
• Accurately record field measurements and project information.
• Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Organize multiple assignments and meet deadlines.
• Work independently while functioning as a member of a team.
• Learn and follow company policies and procedures.
• Work safely in both office and active construction environments.
• Use computers and other standard office equipment.

Qualifications

• Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Interest in heavy highway, site development, and civil construction.

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Currently pursuing an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Construction Engineering Technology, Surveying Technology, or a closely related field.

Experience

• Previous exposure to heavy highway construction, excavation, paving, underground utilities, site development, estimating, surveying, construction layout, or GPS technology is beneficial but not required.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently (34%-66%) required to sit while operating a computer and performing office-related tasks.
• Frequently (34%-66%) required to walk and work on uneven terrain, including active construction sites.
• Occasionally (1%-33%) required to stand for extended periods while observing or assisting with field operations.
• Occasionally (1%-33%) required to climb stairs, ladders, embankments, or excavated areas as necessary to access project locations.
• Frequently (34%-66%) required to operate a motor vehicle to travel between offices, construction projects, meetings, and survey locations.
• Frequently (34%-66%) required to use computers, telephones, copiers, and other standard office equipment.
• Occasionally (1%-33%) required to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including exposure to heat, cold, rain, dust, mud, noise, and moving construction equipment.
• Occasionally (1%-33%) required to lift or carry plans, survey equipment, materials, tools, or supplies weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Frequently (34%-66%) required to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including a hard hat, safety glasses, high-visibility apparel, gloves, and safety footwear while on construction sites.

This is a safety-sensitive position.