Structural Engineering Intern
Paid Structural Engineering Intern – Field Experience
Memphis, TN | Field-Based, Hybrid (Field & Office) | Fall 2026 — 8/10/2026 Start Date | Approx. 15-20 hrs/week, flexible around class schedule
Overview
Ozer Engineering is a Memphis structural engineering firm delivering both new construction design and adaptive reuse of existing buildings — from historic rehabilitation to arts and cultural spaces to mobility and bridge projects across Memphis and the Tri-State area (North Mississippi, East Arkansas, West Tennessee). We design, assess, repair, strengthen, and design structures across a wide range of building types and materials. Licensed in Arkansas, California, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas, Ozer works with diverse projects to create sound structures that are resilient in an era of rapid climate change.
We are hiring one paid intern to work directly with a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) on real building assessments across Memphis and the Tri-State area). This role is built for someone who wants to learn structural engineering through hands-on field experience — not just classroom theory or desk work.
Please note: Candidates must be located within a reasonable commute of our Memphis office. This is a seasonal 4-month) internship; we do not provide travel assistance or reimburse relocation expenses.
What You'll Do
- Participate in site investigations of residential and commercial buildings
- Document structural conditions using notes, photos, measurements, and sketches
- Assist in evaluating structural issues and developing practical recommendations
- Support the preparation of engineering reports and client-facing documentation
- Observe construction and how engineering decisions are implemented
Fieldwork includes attics, crawlspaces, roofs, and active construction sites.
What Makes This Role Different
- Direct mentorship from a licensed PE
- Real field experience, not just modeling or desk work
- Exposure to real buildings, real problems, and real engineering judgment
- Flexible hours to accommodate academic schedules
- Office located at 88 Union in Downtown Memphis, near restaurants, the FedEx Forum, and a short walk to Riverfront Park — visible from our office windows
What You Get
- $16–$20/hour based on experience
- Flexible scheduling around your academic commitments
- Mileage reimbursement and parking covered
- Meal allowance for out-of-town site visits
- A fast-paced team that knows how to enjoy the moment
- Monthly Lunch and Learn Events: Learn from over 30 years of structural experience while enjoying a delicious meal on us!
- Reserved covered parking spot
- Hands-on experience in structural assessments and technical reporting
- Tuition reimbursement of up to $500 upon successful completion of the internship (discretionary)
What You'll Have a Chance to Learn
Technical / Industry-Specific
- Identify and describe common structural systems and load paths in residential and small commercial buildings
- Conduct field observations and document structural conditions using notes, photographs, and sketches
- Distinguish between typical construction deficiencies and potential structural concerns
- Assist in evaluating structural issues and understand how engineering recommendations are developed
- Gain familiarity with industry tools used for documentation and assessment (e.g., Revit, CompanyCam, AirTable, ArcSite)
- Observe how structural engineering recommendations are implemented during construction
Transferable / Professional
- Communicate technical observations clearly in written reports and summaries for clients and project teams
- Explain structural issues in a clear, accessible way to non-technical audiences
- Demonstrate professional judgment by asking questions, seeking clarification, and escalating concerns appropriately
- Manage time effectively while balancing fieldwork, documentation, and deadlines
- Work collaboratively with engineers, contractors, and clients in a professional environment
- Develop attention to detail through accurate on-site documentation
Essential Skills
- Statics & materials — working knowledge of statics (load paths, forces, free body diagrams) and material behavior (wood, steel, concrete, masonry) under load
- Field observation & documentation — accurate notes, measurements, photos, and sketches on-site
- Technical writing — translating field findings into clear reports for contractors and property owners
- Engineering judgment — recognizing when something looks wrong and knowing what to ask
- Drawing literacy — reading and marking up structural drawings; AutoCAD, ArcSite, or Revit familiarity a plus
- Verbal communication — clear, professional in client- and contractor-facing settings
- Physical capability for confined-space fieldwork — entering and maneuvering through crawlspaces as narrow as 18 inches high, often in damp or muddy conditions, on hands and knees or by low-crawling; also attics, roofs, and active construction sites. (We use a crawling robot when a space is too tight to access safely, but physically entering and working in tight, low crawlspaces is a routine, essential part of this job.)
Qualifications
- Civil or Structural Engineering student (preferred: final year), recent graduate, or STEM OPT candidate
- Coursework in statics and materials (mechanics of materials) completed or in progress
- Interest in structural engineering and existing buildings
- Comfortable working in field environments (attics, crawlspaces, construction sites)
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
Don't meet every qualification? We'd still like to hear from you — the skills that matter most for this role are statics, field judgment, communication, and a willingness to learn.
Work Authorization
Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. Students authorized under CPT, OPT, or STEM OPT are welcome to apply. Ozer does not sponsor employment visas.
Our Values
Our work is anchored in practical engineering judgment, clear communication, and responsible enhancements to existing structures. We believe engineers learn best by studying real buildings and gaining hands-on experience.
We are a collaborative, team-driven firm with diverse professionals and women in leadership. We value different perspectives — they strengthen our work and our team. Ozer Engineering is an equal opportunity employer; we consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other status protected by applicable law.
Application Process
Applications reviewed on a rolling basis — apply by 7/31/2026 for priority consideration. Selected candidates will be invited to a 30-minute interview. We aim to move quickly and respect your time throughout the process.
Growth Opportunity
Successful interns may be considered for future roles; however, participation in the internship does not guarantee employment.