Construction Engineering Intern; Transportation​/Heavy Highway

Construction Engineering Intern (Transportation/Heavy Highway)

Sylva, NC

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson is a dynamic, 100% employee‑owned consulting firm with more than 2,800 professionals, providing a full range of multidisciplinary engineering, architecture, information technology, and related services to public agencies and private clients throughout the United States. JMT is currently ranked #45 on Engineering News‑Record's list of the Top 500 Design Firms.

This internship provides hands‑on experience in heavy highway construction projects in partnership with NCDOT. The intern will work alongside NCDOT and CEI inspectors in the field, supporting the inspection and documentation of active construction projects. This position is ideal for students pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering or Construction Management who are interested in transportation and infrastructure projects.

Interns will gain real‑world exposure to construction operations including roadway, bridge, culvert, and resurfacing projects, while developing practical skills in inspection, documentation, and project coordination.

Immigration sponsorship or support (e.g. H1B, F‑1 CPT/OPT/STEM OPT) is not available for this position, except for qualified candidates eligible for the TN visa classification.

• Assist CEI and NCDOT inspectors with daily construction inspection activities on active job sites
• Observe and document contractor operations to ensure compliance with project plans, specifications, and standards
• Support the measurement and documentation of quantities for work performed
• Assist with maintaining daily reports, photo documentation, and project records
• Participate in field testing and inspection of materials such as concrete, asphalt, and soils (as applicable)
• Monitor construction activities including grading, drainage installation, paving, and structural work
• Attend project meetings and safety briefings as needed
• Learn and apply NCDOT procedures, specifications, and quality control practices
• Communicate effectively with inspectors, contractors, and project staff
• Follow all safety protocols and contribute to a safe work environment

• Perform other related duties as assigned

• Strong interest in heavy highway construction and transportation projects
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and terrain
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to communicate clearly and work effectively in a team environment
• Willingness to learn and take direction from experienced field staff
• Ability to manage time and responsibilities in a dynamic field environment
• Must successfully complete and pass JMT's Motor Vehicle screening

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Currently enrolled as a full‑time student pursuing a degree in:
• Civil Engineering (ABET accredited preferred), or
• Construction Management or a related field
• Valid driver's license and ability to operate a company vehicle

• Completed coursework in transportation, materials, or construction‑related subjects
• Previous internship or field experience in construction or engineering
• Familiarity with construction plans, specifications, or basic surveying concepts

This position is primarily field‑based and requires working outdoors on active construction sites. Interns should expect exposure to varying weather conditions, uneven terrain, noise, and heavy equipment operations. Work will involve standing, walking, and occasional lifting. Work may be conducted outside in heat/cold, wet/humid, and dry/arid conditions.

A company vehicle will be provided for project‑related travel.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.