Internship – Structural Engineer (Hybrid)

The role – what you’ll do

Barr is seeking a structural engineering intern to join our Ann Arbor team for the summer of 2027. In this role, you will support our structural engineering group on a variety of technical assignments related to hydropower facilities, wind turbine foundations, and industrial processing facilities—including fuels, power plants, mining, and other heavy industrial sites. You’ll contribute to structural design and analysis, prepare plans and specifications, assist with cost estimating, and participate in construction inspection and observation. This role may include short-term travel for field assignments.

The ideal candidate for this position is detail-oriented, technically curious, and eager to learn. You bring strong communication and problem-solving skills, a collaborative mindset, and a flexible working style that aligns with Barr’s values of client focus, integrity, and continuous improvement.

Your impact – key responsibilities

• Technical knowledge: apply foundational engineering principles to assist with engineering calculations and modeling for a variety of industrial and energy-related structures.

• Project support: support the preparation of engineering drawings, technical specifications, and design documentation. Contribute to project reports and help develop cost estimates for engineering solutions.

• Fieldwork: participate in site visits and inspections to observe construction activities and help ensure compliance with design intent.

• Software: use word processing, spreadsheet, and structural engineering software to support project tasks and team collaboration.

• Team collaboration: work closely with engineers and project managers while gaining hands-on experience in a professional consulting environment.

About the opportunity

• Hybrid: a hybrid work arrangement may be considered for this position. A hybrid work arrangement refers to splitting time worked between a Barr office and a home office. This position is based out of Barr's Ann Arbor, Michigan, office.

• Travel expectation: willingness to travel and periodically adjust personal schedule to meet project needs (up to 30% travel and fieldwork possible; project needs will vary).

• Work environment: ability to work in locations that may feature rough terrain typical of construction, manufacturing, or rural outdoor sites with limited accessibility, moving machinery, and other conditions typical of industrial facilities. Candidates must be able to perform job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.

Physical requirements for the role may include:

• Ability to conduct fieldwork in varying outdoor conditions (e.g., heat, cold, rain, uneven terrain).

• Must be able to lift and carry equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds.

• Capable of standing, walking, kneeling, or crouching for extended periods.

• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by site conditions.

About you – required core competencies

• Education: civil engineering degree with at least two semesters of physics and three semesters of mathematics. Must be in junior or senior standing, with a minimum of one full-time semester of undergraduate or graduate coursework remaining after the internship.

• GPA: minimum GPA of 3.2/4.0.

• Software: strong computer skills, including word processing and use of spreadsheets. Familiarity with the Microsoft Office Suite.

• Driver’s license: possession of a current, valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship by Barr, now or in the future.

Compensation: Anticipated range of $22.66–$30.46 hourly. Compensation will vary based on relevant experience, education, skill level, and other compensable factors. Employees in this position may also be eligible for a discretionary cash bonus based on team and individual performance. This position is classified as non-exempt (hourly) under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

#LI-Hybrid #Handshake

Benefits - what we offer

We are committed to providing an employee experience that attracts and retains top talent. That's why we offer a competitive package of employee benefits - including some unique offerings not found at other companies. At Barr, we also believe that learning doesn't stop when you get your degree, which is why we provide coaching, mentoring, and support for ongoing educational opportunities to foster professional development at every stage of your career.

• Competitive, affordable insurance plans: Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, accidental death insurance, and flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care

• Retirement benefits: 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contribution and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with company contribution in Barr stock

• Profit distribution: Barr has a "no retained earnings" model and distributes all profit to our employees through our annual bonus distribution plan, ESOP, and dividends to shareholders

• Professional development benefits: Annual time and expense allowances, mentorship program, and many internal training opportunities

• Work/life balance: Paid time off, holidays, overtime for non-exempt/hourly staff, and compensatory time for exempt/salaried staff (time off or pay for extra time worked), paid family leave

• Wellness focus: Ergonomic analysis and equipment, Personal Protective Equipment allowance, wellbeing-focused educational opportunities

Please note that benefits eligibility is determined and may change based on part-time, reduced-time, or full-time status.

About us - why choose Barr

At Barr, you'll join a community of engineers, scientists, and professionals who will help you achieve your ambitions and build a meaningful, rewarding career. You'll serve as a trusted advisor to clients who value Barr's tailored solutions and commitment to exceptional service.

As part of our employee-owned firm, you'll contribute to a culture of commitment and camaraderie where staff can thrive as professionals. We value diverse perspectives and experiences and believe an inclusive workplace is critical to our success.

To learn more about Barr's culture and values, visit: https://www.barr.com/Careers/Our-culture

Open positions at Barr Engineering Co. do not have application deadlines. Barr Engineering Co. is an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.