Geotechnical Engineering Intern

Nelson Geotechnical Associates is seeking a Civil Engineering Intern to join our team for Summer-Fall 2026 in Woodinville, WA.

Candidates should be currently enrolled in a geotechnical engineering, geology or related program, with a preference given to those entering their senior year. Recent graduates preparing for geotechnical careers are also encouraged to apply. This paid internship will last approximately 3–6 months and is designed to provide hands-on experience in geotechnical engineering, including field investigations, laboratory testing, and engineering analysis for a variety of projects. 

At Nelson Geotechnical Associates, we’re always looking for ways to help you grow in your career. You’ll work alongside experienced engineers and geologists, contributing to real projects while developing practical skills in construction observation, subsurface exploration, soil and material testing, and technical report preparation. We’re eager to teach you new skills that will help you grow in your career!

We live by our core values of honesty, dedication, and relationships. We make decisions every day based on these values, which drive us to do the right thing even when it’s hard. Our vision is to work with cool people on cool projects, and we want people on our team who will add to the realization of our goals.

We encourage you to ask around about us. Do some digging. We’re confident that you’ll want to learn more.

Responsibilities:

• Perform construction monitoring to ensure compliance with project specifications and geotechnical recommendations.
• Conduct laboratory testing on soil and material samples.
• Prepare detailed field reports documenting site conditions, observations, and testing results.
• Support geotechnical site investigations, including subsurface exploration and data collection.
• Develop practical experience in how to resolve engineering problems and adapt approved engineering methods and standards.
• Build foundational experience in how to review and interpret plans, site layouts, specifications or construction methods to ensure compliance to legal requirements and safety regulations.
• Meet deadlines, communicate and work closely in a team environment
• Prepare engineering designs and specifications on assigned portions of a project accurately and in a timely manner.
• Assist in the analysis of complex engineering data such as preliminary specifications, laboratory data, and other technical data.
• Communicate field observations clearly through written reports and verbal updates to project teams.

Qualifications:

• Must be currently enrolled or a recent graduate of an accredited Bachelor of Science degree with major coursework in geotechnical engineering, geology, or a related field.
• Excellent computer, writing, communication and customer service skills.
• Experience using Microsoft 365 including Word and Excel.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and crouch on various terrain at job sites.
• Ability to regularly lift up to 50lbs.
• Experience with engineering computer applications such as AutoCAD Civil 3D preferred.
• EIT certification or ability to sit for the FE exam within 12 months of hire preferred.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Why join the MacKay Sposito team?

• A people-first culture - We are dedicated to our employees and their families. We want to do what’s best for them, and their well-being helps drive our business decisions.   
• An excellent reputation - Through our 50-year history, MacKay Sposito has built and maintained an outstanding reputation in our community, and with our clients and business partners. You’ll be joining a team with a strong foundation and reputation that you can be proud to be part of.
• A focus on community - MacKay Sposito and our employees believe in giving back to the communities we serve. As a firm, we support several local organizations focused on community pillars related to veterans and youth. Our team members serve in volunteer positions as commissioners, committee and board members, youth coaches, and participate across a broad range of initiatives. 

Our Values:

At MacKay Sposito, we’re serious about our work, but we don’t take ourselves too seriously. We have a unique and diverse mix of employees who enjoy each other’s company. In addition to having first-rate technical skills, we search for people who are friendly, honest, and dedicated to the team and their work.

We believe in constructive candor with our clients and colleagues - sharing our full knowledge and expertise to allow for fully informed decisions. By creating a positive, committed, and supportive environment, we can challenge our people to be the best they can be and celebrate every success. 

Who We Are:

With more than 50 years of experience, MacKay Sposito is a multidisciplinary firm based in Vancouver, Washington, specializing in public works, energy, and land development. Our passionate team focuses on building lasting relationships through quality work, creative design, and collaboration. We offer civil engineering, land surveying, environmental science and permitting, landscape architecture, and construction management and inspection services. With the addition of our subsidiary, Riparia Environmental, we now deliver a full suite of services from design and engineering to maintenance and environmental compliance. Together, we balance development with environmental stewardship and sustainability.

About Nelson Geotechnical Associates: 

Nelson Geotechnical Associates, has joined MacKay Sposito.  Nelson, based in Woodinville, WA,  with a presence in Wenatchee, WA, brings a strong reputation for geotechnical engineering services across the Pacific Northwest, along with long-standing client relationships and a team known for quality and responsiveness. Nelson is known for its work in geotechnical engineering, including subsurface investigations, foundation design, slope stability analysis, and construction support services.

By joining forces, we’re expanding our ability to deliver integrated, high-quality solutions across more projects and communities. It also strengthens our capabilities in a core service area and enhances how we support our clients across the region. 

Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are based on candidate experience and qualifications, as well as various market and business considerations.

The wage for this position is $22.00-$25.00 per hour, depending on experience.

Employment requires passing a pre-employment background check and drug screen.

As a federal Contractor, we participate in E-Verify and are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Open until filled.