MDOT Internship Program

Full Job Description

Are you an independent, energetic, self-sufficient, and highly motivated undergraduate/graduate student? Do you have a passion for public service? Are you excited to gain government experience in areas such as design, construction, project management, surveying, and planning (just to name a few!)? This opportunity is a great way for you to bridge the gap between going to school and landing a great job.

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is a diverse, innovative agency serving your family, friends, Michigan citizens, and visitors. Undergraduate/graduate students will have the opportunity to gain work experience, develop professional competence and long-range career goals, integrate work experiences with academic knowledge, and establish a professional network. Begin your MDOT journey today!

Typical Work Assignments
This opportunity provides valuable work experience in civil engineering and/or transportation planning by learning the ropes from more experienced professionals. In an on-the-job training capacity, work assignments could include performing entry and intermediate level work, including but not limited to inspection, testing, surveying, design plans, community and local partner engagement, forecasting, geospatial mapping technology, data analysis, asset management and project administration for the department road, bridge, and facilities programs.

Work locations are located throughout the State of Michigan. Assignments will be taken into consideration based on the work area that you choose in the supplemental questions section on the job application, but you may be considered for a different work area. Click HERE for more information about the different work areas and work assignments.

Pay Rates
First Participation Year: $19.49/hour
Second Participation Year: $21.18/hour
Third Participation Year: $21.79/hour
Fourth Participation Year: $22.42/hour
Fifth Participation Year: $22.86/hour
Sixth Participation Year: $23.55/hour

This is a seasonal program that runs from approximately April 26 to October 31, 2026 and includes the following benefits:

• Overtime compensation (per SEIU bargaining agreement)
• Competitive pay rates
• Flexible work schedules (contingent upon operational need)
• Holiday pay
• 16 hours of initial annual (vacation) leave
• Accrue annual and sick leave every pay period (per SEIU bargaining agreement)
• 401K benefits

Questions or comments?
Contact: Internship Coordinator, e-mail address mdot-internship@michigan.gov

Requirements

Open to all undergraduate/graduate students currently enrolled and studying in the engineering and technology fields with priority to Civil Engineering, Civil Technology, Construction Management, Land Surveying, Planning, and Geographic Information Systems.Cumulative GPA must be a 2.0 or higher.First semester/term college students can apply now by attaching a copy of the current semester course schedule that reflects the student's name, college information, course, and credit enrollment.

A transcript reflecting earning a minimum of 24 semester credits or 36 term credits and a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher prior is required prior to entry into the program.Interns returning to MDOT in subsequent years must show reasonable accumulation of credits, up to the maximum number of years allowed in the program (six years).

Students must have earned at least the following number of credits for each returning year:2nd year - 36 semester credits or 51 term credits3rd year - 48 semester credits or 66 term credits4th year - 60 semester credits or 81 term credits5th year - 72 semester credits or 96 term credits6th year - 84 semester credits or 111 term creditsLast semester official college transcript and current course schedule is to be attached to the on-line application (college transcript is not required for first semester/term students).

The transcript is to include the student's name, college/university information, credits earned, and grades received to date.Failure to meet the above requirements for new and returning students may result in forfeiting any rights of consideration for employment or, if hired, may lead to dismissal.

Additional Information Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.

Valid Driver's License.

Candidates are required to demonstrate progression in the program by enrolling and successfully completing classes and courses that are consistent with their area of study.

The program may require a Certification in Federal Material Testing and Sampling Methods (involves passing a written and proficiency exam to be completed after hire).

Participation in the program could lead to a permanent position within the Michigan Department of Transportation for college seniors after successful completion of the season and satisfactory performance.

This program may have the ability to work a hybrid (office/home) schedule. Candidates should confirm work location and schedule at the time of interview.

The department reserves the right to close this posting prior to its original end date once a sufficient number of applications have been received.

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) software of any kind is prohibited in all areas of the selection process including, but not limited to, responses to application questions and responses to interview questions or exercises.

Click here for more information on the MDOT Internship Program.