What are the responsibilities and job description for the Student Engineer - Summer 2026 position at MacKay & Somps Civil Engineers, Inc.?
Are you a civil engineering student eager to apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to real-world projects? As a Student Engineer at MacKay & Somps, you’ll gain hands-on experience supporting land development and public infrastructure efforts across Northern California. You’ll work side by side with professional engineers, designers, and surveyors, helping bring communities to life through thoughtful, well-executed design. This is a great opportunity to explore career paths in civil engineering, strengthen your technical skills, and contribute to meaningful projects in a supportive and team-oriented environment.
Must be authorized to work in the United States.
Student Engineers work under the direction of Project Engineers, Project Managers, and CAD Designers, providing design and production support on a variety of projects, including:
Preparing plans, exhibits, and figures for land development and public infrastructure projects
Assisting with grading, utility, stormwater, and street design
Supporting hydrology and hydraulic calculations
Performing quantity take-offs, basic cost estimating, and data entry
Learning to use design software including AutoCAD Civil 3D and Microsoft Office tools
This role offers the opportunity to build a strong technical foundation while gaining exposure to real-world project development from concept through construction. We are looking for candidates who:
- Are currently pursuing a B.S. in Civil Engineering (or related field) from an ABET-accredited university
- Have completed (or are currently taking) coursework in site design, hydrology, transportation, or stormwater systems
- Have exposure to or an interest in learning AutoCAD Civil 3D
- Demonstrate strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a desire to learn
- Thrive in a team-oriented, client-driven work environment
- An Engineer-In-Training (EIT) certification or intent to pursue one is a plus
- Software used in this role may include AutoCAD Civil3D, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook), HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, XP-Storm, and WaterCAD.
We value a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and team camaraderie. If you are a student engineer who thrives in a collaborative, client-focused environment, we encourage you to apply.
\nSalary : $20 - $30