Student Trainee (Contracting)
Defense Logistics Agency
FreshPosted Mar 20
✓ Fresh Listing
Posted: March 20, 2026 (2 days ago)
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Student Trainee (Civil Engineering)
Bonneville Power Administration
Department of Energy
Location
Vancouver, Washington
Salary
$39,230 - $51,002
per year
Type
Full-Time
More Engineering jobs →Closes
March 29, 2026More DOE jobs →
GS-4 Pay Grade
Base salary range: $30,286 - $39,372
Typical requirements: 1 year general experience. 2 years college or associate degree.
Note: Actual salary includes locality pay (15-40%+ depending on location).
Job Description
Summary
This entry-level job is for college students studying civil engineering, where you'll assist with hands-on tasks like running tests, setting up equipment, and joining field inspections under the guidance of experienced engineers at a power administration agency.
It's perfect for motivated students in their second year or beyond who want real-world experience in engineering projects related to transmission services.
You'll split time between classes and work to build practical skills in a supportive government program.
Key Requirements
- Currently enrolled in an accredited college, university, community college, or qualifying educational institution pursuing a degree or certificate in civil engineering or related field
- Completed 2 full academic years of post-high school study or an associate's degree (equivalent to 30 semester hours or 45 quarter hours)
- Meet all qualifications and eligibility by the job announcement closing date
- Ability to perform tests, operate and maintain equipment, and analyze data using established methods
- Willingness to participate in meetings, field inspections, and collaborative projects with engineers
- Located in or able to work in Vancouver, Washington
Full Job Description
This position is part of the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), in Transmission Student Development (TD), Transmission Services (T).
As a Student Trainee (Civil Engineering), you will be a student trainee in the civil engineering occupational field, completes periods of pertinent formal education and periods of employment as part of a formal student employment program.
Eligibility: Currently enrolled in an accredited college (including 4-year colleges/universities, community colleges, and junior colleges); professional, technical, vocational, and trade school; advanced degree programs; or other qualifying educational institution pursuing a qualifying degree or certificate.
GS-04: To qualify, you must have completed 2 full academic years of post-high school study OR an associate's degree.
(1 full academic year is equivalent to 30 semester hours or 45 quarter hours.) You must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of this announcement. Major Duties:
As a Student Trainee (Civil Engineer), you will: Perform a variety of tests in accordance with established methods. Adjust and operate test equipment of proven reliability.
Analyze and present data in accordance with established methods. Assemble, install, and maintain instruments and equipment.
Participate with engineers and other professionals in meetings relating to the review of engineering elements of assigned projects.
Accompany engineers and other professionals on field inspections of in-process and completed work.
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