Mechanical Designer Intern - Utilities and Central Energy

POSITION SPECIFICATIONS

Position: Mechanical Designer Intern

Department: Utilities & Central Energy (UCE)

Start Date: Summer Term 2026

COMPANY BACKGROUND

KFI Engineers is a recognized industry leader in facility infrastructure design and performance. Since 1996, our culture of collaboration and unique capabilities have allowed us to make a difference in the way infrastructure and processing projects are delivered.

Headquartered in St. Paul, MN, with numerous regional offices throughout the United States, and a team of hundreds of professionals, we offer opportunities to continue your career with mentorship programs, career growth support, and continued education. With KFI, we find a way to provide creative solutions to unique projects while providing the same care we would expect if we were the client. For more information about KFI Engineers and our culture, please visit www.kfi-eng.com.

THE OPPORTUNITY

At KFI, we see Interns as a valuable investment in our future. Our Intern program offers you the opportunity to learn our business, gain exposure to various projects and industry sectors, and enhance your design skills.

Intern Program Benefits

• Hands-on, real-world experience in the consulting engineering industry
• Work with impactful projects
• Learning opportunities through mentorship
• Network with leading experts in the industry.
  
  

RESPONSIBILITIES

Specific responsibilities will include, but not be limited to, the following:

• Clean-up 2D drawing markups in AutoCAD.
• Model 3D structural, piping, electrical, and equipment elements used in design.
• Draft hand sketches into CAD drawings.
• Engage with other designers to learn drafting and project-related details and ask questions. 
• Provide office/project support (plotting, scanning, document preparation).
• Develop schedule to manage workload across assigned activities to achieve deadlines.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Pursuing a two-year drafting degree/AAS degree or similar area of study.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the US on a permanent basis without the need for work sponsorship now or in the future.
• Demonstrated proficiency with computer technology, including MS Office applications.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with strong attention to detail.
• Effective time management and organizational abilities.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively, adapting quickly to shifting priorities and workload demands.
• Consistently demonstrate professional engineering ethics and adhere to company policies and procedures.
• Ability and willingness to travel if needed.
  
  

Preferred

• Completed at least two years of relevant college coursework.
• Completed coursework and/or practical knowledge in power systems engineering, including power distribution, lighting, and low voltage systems.
• Working knowledge of engineering design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit).
• Interest in building systems, construction environments, and/or commercial HVAC.
• Comfortable working in both office and construction site settings.
  
  

Working Conditions

• Occasionally, some work locations will feature the tough terrain typical of construction sites or require lifting or moving field testing equipment.

PREVIOUS STUDENT PROJECTS

• Developed interactive Power BI dashboards with custom CAD-based maps for building conversions analysis, enabling scenario planning, capital and energy forecasting, emissions tracking, and phased infrastructure management.
• Analyzed heat loads in MCC rooms to assess cooling system design and efficiency and identify improvement opportunities.
• Designed and executed a long-range Utility Study involving project planning, analysis and customer recommendations.
• Conducted an energy modeling study for a new high school and a large shopping mall.
• Performed HVAC assessment and commissioning services across diverse facilities, including clinics, power plants, and educational buildings.
• Identified HVAC inefficiencies using utility data analysis and recommended energy-saving recommissioning strategies.
• Analyzed ground-source head pump system performance.
• Developed engineering calculation tools to improve efficiency and accuracy.
  
  

CORE BEHAVIORS

Accountable

• Demonstrates persistence in the achievement of goals.
• Acts with a sense of urgency.
• Takes responsibility for own actions.

Business Focus

• Demonstrates agility, adapts well to changes.
• Works well under pressure.
• Meets commitments to internal/external customers.

Project Execution

• Plans projects well, managing last-minute rushes and disruptions.
• Balances Speed and Quality.
• Looks for improvement in our delivery, tools and processes.
• Other duties as assigned.

Demonstrates Respect for Others

• Keeps others adequately informed.
• Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views.
• Adapts communication style and method based on audience and situation.

Team Player

• Balances team and individual responsibilities.
• Shares expertise with others.
• Inspires respect and trust.

Compensation: $23.00 per hour. The final agreed upon compensation is based on individual qualifications, experience, work location, and education. This position will earn ESST (Earned Sick and Safe Time) in accordance with state and local law.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

This position is not eligible for Visa sponsorship.

KFI Engineers is an EOE including veterans and disability.