Civil Engineering Co-op

Overview

SME's summer Co-op assignment begins in mid-May 2026 and requires a commitment to work full-time through late November or early December 2026. There is no minimum number of years of college education to apply for our Co-op program, but our Summer Internships are only available to those who have previously completed a Co-op with SME.

Your Co-op experience begins with an orientation/training period lasting several weeks followed by on-the-job training with full-time SME Team Members. You will be exposed to a wide variety of construction techniques and project types, helping you explore a variety of future specializations. You will also have the opportunity to work and interact directly with construction managers, contractors, and design professionals. As a Co-op you are an important part of the SME Team.

• Housing stipend
• Company provided phone and vehicle
• Work-boot and safety eye glass reimbursement
• Paid Time off
• Tuition reimbursement

We are hiring Co-ops in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana.

• Basic Computer Literacy:
  Comfortable using computers and software essential for in-field work, company communications, and report generation.
• Valid driver's license and good driving record; ability to drive in the U.S.
• Ability to lift and carry equipment and samples weighing up to approximately 50–60 pounds.
• Ability to work outside at construction project sites in various weather conditions.
• Ability to sit, stand, stoop and/or kneel for long periods.
• Ability to walk and work on uneven ground/terrain.

• Attention to detail: a keen eye for detail when reviewing construction plans or project documents; accuracy in reporting.
• Problem-solving: ability to think critically and approach challenges with a solution-oriented mindset.
• Time management: ability to manage time well and meet deadlines; motivated self-starters and punctual hard workers.
• Communication
  
  Skills:
  
  good written, organizational, and oral communication; ability to work well in a team.
• Learning Attitude: enthusiasm to learn and adapt.
• Safety Minded: adherence to industry and SME safety standards and safe work behaviors on the job.

Your work will involve supporting field construction quality control activities. You will gain valuable experience in the assessment and evaluation of project materials including soils, concrete, asphalt, and other construction materials. You will work closely with SME Team Members and contractors to learn and assist in the adherence to project specifications. You may also assist SME engineering staff in performing field evaluations and quality control testing in the field.

You will gain direct exposure to consulting engineering practices and have an opportunity to meet technical specialists in geotechnical engineering, environmental remediation, pavement design, and materials evaluation.