CDOT Bridge Repairs Design Intern, Summer 2027

DESCRIPTION

The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) Bridge Section, within the Division of Engineering, is responsible for the management, inspection, maintenance, and rehabilitation of more than 380 bridges throughout the City of Chicago. This includes several historic movable and bascule bridges that are recognized as unique components of Chicago's transportation infrastructure. The Bridge Section's work encompasses capital bridge improvement projects, bridge rehabilitation and repair projects, bridge inspections, load ratings, bridge permit, and other activities that ensure the safety and functionality of the City's bridge network.

Michael Baker International (MBI) is seeking a Summer 2027 CDOT Bridge Repairs Intern to support bridge projects throughout Chicago. This internship is a unique partnership between MBI and the CDOT. While the selected intern will be employed and supported by MBI, you will work closely with CDOT Bridge Section staff on emergency repairs design or other on-call assignments. This arrangement provides interns with exposure to both public agency operations and private consulting services, offering a well-rounded professional development experience that is uncommon in traditional internship programs. This will be a full-time summer commitment at 40 hours per week during the summer months, working onsite at CDOT’s office.

Applicants for this internship should be interested in bridge engineering for the public sector. Applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in pursuing a career in public-sector transportation engineering, particularly in bridge design, inspection, maintenance, and repair projects serving the City of Chicago. We are seeking motivated individuals who are entering their senior year of undergrad or intend to pursue grad school, with an interest in field work, taking ownership of tasks, and have an interest in long-term contributions to bridge projects within Chicago. Successful candidates may have opportunities to continue their involvement through academic-year co-op assignments, returning summer internships, or future full-time employment opportunities upon graduation.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assists Engineers with completing project plans, drawings, design, and/or analysis
• Assist with data collection, input, verification, and manipulation
• Assists with technical related tasks such as preparation of basic studies, design work, and inspections
• Completes simple to moderate calculations such as cost estimates
• Performs routine analysis and summarized findings by preparing reports
• Other duties as assigned
• Excellent communication skills; both verbal and technical report writing
• Highly motivated and capable of working effectively in a team environment

PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Pursuing Bachelors or Masters of Science in Civil Engineering from ABET Accredited University, focusing on bridge structures
• Minimum 3 years completed coursework in degree of study
• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Excellent analytical skills
• Strong technical skills and communication skills
• Familiarity with AASHTO, IDOT, and ISHTA design and construction standards preferred
• Willingness and enthusiasm to participate in field visits and work on active bridge sites throughout Chicago.
• Strong desire to learn, grow professionally, and take increasing ownership of project responsibilities.
• Future interest in living and working in Chicago preferred.

COMPENSATION
The approximate compensation range for this position is $20 - $26 per hour. This compensation range is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation is dependent upon factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skillset, and physical work location.