Project Engineer Intern

About JR Merit:

JR Merit, Inc. was founded in 1997 on the belief that “merit”—the quality of being good and worthy—was something worth working for. Today, we are recognized as one of the highest-value industrial and mechanical construction contractors in the marketplace for complex infrastructure and critical plant processes. We take pride in being a union shop with a passion for surpassing client expectations.

We're growing! JR Merit offers an exciting opportunity to develop and expand your career by supporting projects in highly unique and technical industries. If you want to have a voice, influence our continued growth, and work collaboratively as a team to find innovative solutions to our clients’ construction challenges, we want to get to know you.

Objective: To provide interns with hands-on experience and knowledge in project engineering within the industrial construction sector, focusing on estimating, planning, execution, safety, and quality management.

Duration: 3-4 months during the summer of 2026.  

Location: Headquartered in Vancouver, Washington. Various job sites and office locations as required. Travel may be necessary.

Reporting To: Project Manager or designated supervisor.

Compensation: $26.00/hour

Key Learning Outcomes:

• Gain practical experience in project setup, including understanding cost types, phase codes, and the use of project management software (e.g., Viewpoint).
• Develop skills in preparing and updating labor plans, maintaining project schedules, and assisting with cost and revenue projections.
• Learn the process of creating change orders, performing quantity takeoffs, developing material lists, and assisting in the development of proposals.
• Understand the commercial, contractual, and financial aspects of project management, including cash flow, invoicing, and collection of accounts receivable.
• Participate in safety training and develop an understanding of company safety values and procedures to ensure safe work environments.
• Exposure to company purchase orders, field purchasing procedures, and requisition of equipment and materials.
• Improve interpersonal and communication skills through regular interaction with internal teams, customers, and third-party partners.

Qualifications for Interns:

• Current enrollment in or recent graduate of a Bachelor's Degree program in Construction Engineering Management or a related field.
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, with the ability to learn project management and CAD software.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
• Technical aptitude and a commitment to continuing personal and professional development.

Program Structure:

1. Orientation and Training: Introduction to JR Merit Inc., core safety training, software tools training, and overview of project management fundamentals.
2. Project Assignments: Participation in various stages of project management under the guidance of experienced professionals, including project planning, execution, and close-out.
3. Safety and Quality Focus: Active involvement in safety meetings and quality assurance processes to understand the importance of safety and quality standards in construction projects.
4. Professional Development: Attendance at industry seminars, workshops, and company trainings related to time management, active listening, risk management, and other relevant topics.
5. Mentorship: Assignment of a mentor to provide guidance, feedback, and support throughout the internship.
6. Evaluation and Feedback: Regular performance evaluations to assess progress and areas for improvement, with a final evaluation at the end of the program.

Working Conditions:

• Interns must be prepared for the physical demands of the job, including the ability to work in various weather conditions, lift up to 50 pounds, and navigate construction sites.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be provided and must be worn as required.

Application Process: Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and any relevant coursework or project examples that demonstrate their interest and qualifications for the internship.

This internship program template provides a structured and comprehensive learning experience for Project Engineer interns, aligning with the job responsibilities and qualifications outlined for the Project Engineer I position at JR Merit Inc.

Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer:

JR Merit, Inc. is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce.  We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and it is our policy to provide equal opportunity to all people without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other legally protected category. We are a background screening, drug-free workplace.

JR Merit, Inc provides reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation in order to apply for a job, please submit your request to recruiting@jrmerit.com  

Work Authorization:

JR Merit, Inc. is a federal contractor which participates in E-Verify.  Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship.