Civil Engineering Materials Co-op
State of Iowa
FreshPosted Feb 23
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Posted: February 24, 2026 (1 day ago)
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Engineering Intern (Construction and Materials)
State of Iowa
645 Iowa Department of Transportation
Location
Iowa, 50319
Salary
$16.46 - $19.76
per hour
Type
Internship
More Construction jobs →Closes
March 30, 2026
Job Description
Summary
This internship at the Iowa Department of Transportation involves hands-on lab testing of soils and aggregates to support highway construction projects, ensuring materials meet quality standards for durability and performance.
The role includes performing tests, maintaining equipment, and recording results to help build reliable infrastructure.
It's ideal for motivated students in engineering or related fields who enjoy teamwork, problem-solving, and learning about materials science in a fast-paced government setting.
Key Requirements
- Currently enrolled in a degree program in engineering, civil engineering, materials science, or a related field
- Ability to perform laboratory tests on aggregates and soils, including specific gravity, sieve analysis, abrasion resistance, and freeze-thaw susceptibility
- Proficiency in mathematical calculations for compliance with project plans and quantities
- Skills in maintaining, calibrating, and operating testing equipment according to standards
- Experience or ability to maintain detailed records of test procedures and results
- Comfortable using computers and related software applications for data handling
- Strong collaborative and communication skills to work with teams, staff, and producers
Full Job Description
Location: Construction and Materials Bureau, Ames, Iowa
Shift: 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday, hours may vary
Iowa DOT’s Mission is Making Lives Better Through Transportation.
To accomplish our Mission, the person selected for this position will demonstrate actions and behaviors guided by the Iowa DOT’s five CORE values: Safety First, People Matter, Customer Focused, Servant Leadership, and Integrity Without Exception.
The Iowa DOT is looking to hire a motivated individual who has a desire to get involved with soils and aggregate testing.
Soils and aggregates are the foundation that supports all building processes for the Iowa DOT. If you are looking for a fast-paced, challenging and rewarding career apply for this position.
You will be part a hard charging team, testing and evaluating aggregates and soils. The results of these tests will help to ensure success of future highway projects.
In addition to testing the aggregates for consistency the team tests aggregates for freeze thaw damage susceptibility, pore structure, abrasion, and chemical analysis using xrd and xrf machines.
Research is being conducted to verify the effectiveness of a digital particle shape and size analyzer, as well as to verify a provisional national specification on the 3rd generation of the Iowa Pore Index test.
The team is also involved with testing and classifying soil types to determine bearing capacities. This position is located in Ames, IA.
Being near the center of the state allows us the ability to provide timely information to our customers.
Desired abilities:
- Works collaboratively with diverse group of people
- Maintains an attitude of determination and dedication
- Displays high standards of ethical conduct
- Treats customers and teammates courteously and is responsive to their needs
- Commits to providing a high-quality product and service
- Addresses and listens to others in respectful manner
- Motivates others towards completing a common goal
Intern Responsibilities:
Performs various aggregates and soils test in laboratory.
The tests performed include (but are not limited to): determinations of specific gravity and absorption, sieve analysis, abrasion resistance, determinations of shale, chert, clay, silt, and materials finer than No.
200 sieve, resistance to freezing and thawing, pore index, salt susceptibility of aggregate, soil sample preparations, density, proctor, modified proctor, consolidation, triaxial compression, mechanical analysis, Atterburg limits, and carbon content in soil.
What we offer YOU:
- Team-oriented, positive work environment
- Opportunities for professional growth and development
Excited to pursue the next step in your career? Apply today!
Qualifications
Internship placement and compensation will be determined based on the candidate’s academic qualifications and degree program.
- Admin Intern - Currently enrolled students in a degree program at an accredited educational institution.
- Engineering Intern - Completion of at least two years in civil, construction, materials, or transportation engineering, or in an engineering management curriculum at an accredited four-year college or university with eligibility for junior status upon return to school.
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