"Opportunities don’t happen. You create them." – Chris Grosser
Looking for an engineering internship near you? Whether you want to stay local to save money, avoid relocation, or just prefer in-person opportunities, finding the right internship takes strategy, persistence, and knowing where to look.
The good news? Engineering internships are available in every city, state, and industry—you just need the right tools to find them. This guide will walk you through how to search effectively, what companies to target, and how to land a local engineering internship.
How to Search for Local Engineering Internships
Many students make the mistake of only searching job boards. That’s just one piece of the puzzle. The best internships often come from networking, university resources, and hidden job postings.
1. Use Local Job Boards & University Portals
Handshake – Best for students; universities partner with companies to list local internships.
LinkedIn Jobs – Use location-based filters to find companies hiring near you.
Indeed & Glassdoor – General job boards that list engineering internships by city.
Engineering-Specific Boards – Try Nerd Werk, ASME Career Center, or SWE Careers.
💡 Pro Tip: Many small and mid-sized companies don’t post internships widely. Handshake and university job boards often list these exclusive local opportunities.
2. Find Local Companies Hiring Engineering Interns
Big tech and Fortune 500 companies aren’t the only options. Many local engineering firms, manufacturers, and startups offer internships.
Best Types of Local Companies to Target
Small & Mid-Sized Engineering Firms – They may not post widely but always need talent.
Utility & Energy Companies – Local power plants, water treatment facilities, and renewable energy firms often hire engineering interns.
Construction & Civil Engineering Firms – If you’re in civil or structural engineering, local firms are a great bet.
Manufacturing & Aerospace – Factories, assembly plants, and R&D centers often take interns.
City, State & Government Internships – Local DOT, public works, and city planning departments often need engineering interns.
How to You Find Them?
- Google: “Engineering companies near me”
- City business directories
- Local chamber of commerce websites
3. Tap Into Your University’s Network
Your university’s career center, professors, and alumni network are goldmines for local internships.
Talk to Professors and Staff – Many professors have industry connections and can recommend you.
Checkout Career Fairs – Even if they’re virtual, these fairs connect you directly with recruiters.
Check for Research Assistant Opportunities – If industry internships are full, university labs often take interns.
Big Brain Idea: If your school doesn’t have a connection with a local company you’re interested in, ask a professor to introduce you.
4. Network & Use LinkedIn for Hidden Internships
80% of jobs are filled through networking—not job applications. If you want an internship near you, start building connections.
Find local engineers on LinkedIn and message them:
"Hey [Name], I’m a student studying [your major] and I’m really interested in [industry]. I saw you work at [Company Name]. Do you have any advice for someone looking for an internship in this field?"
Join local engineering groups on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Reddit. Many engineers share job postings that never make it to job boards.
Attend industry meetups & networking events. Check Eventbrite, Meetup.com, and university event pages for local engineering gatherings.
Pro Tip: Even if someone can’t offer you a job, they might refer you to someone who can. Always follow up after networking conversations!
Engineering Internships Based on Specific Needs
Depending on your situation, you might need to refine your search even more. Here’s how:
If You’re an Undergraduate
Where you can look:
- Handshake (universities partner with local companies)
- Student chapters of ASME, IEEE, SWE (often have exclusive listings)
- Research labs (reach out to professors)
Pro Tip: Many undergrad internships are competitive, apply EARLY (6-8 months in advance).
If You Have No Degree Yet
Don’t have a degree but want experience? Look for:
Apprenticeships or Co-Ops – Some companies offer on-the-job training.
Trade & Technical Schools – Check local trade schools for hands-on opportunities.
Entry-Level Technician Roles – Some companies hire technicians and later promote them to engineering roles.
Pro Tip: Even if a job says “must be in school,” apply anyway—some companies bend the rules for strong candidates.
If You Need an Internship Quickly (Last-Minute Search)
Did you wait too long to apply and need something ASAP?
Use the “Past Week” Filter on LinkedIn or Indeed
Check University Job Boards Daily (New postings pop up constantly)
Contact Smaller Firms Directly – Call local engineering firms and ask if they need summer interns.
Pro Tip: Smaller companies don’t have formal internship programs—but they might create a position if you show enthusiasm and skills.
How to Make Yourself a Strong Candidate for Local Internships
Even with no prior experience, you can stand out by:
Building Projects – Create something related to your field and add it to your resume.
Getting a Referral – A recommendation from a professor or local engineer can bypass GPA and experience requirements.
Customizing Your Resume – Highlight local ties and why you want to work at that specific company.
Example:
"I’m passionate about [engineering field], and I love seeing how companies like [Company Name] impact my local community. I’d be excited to contribute as an intern and gain hands-on experience with [specific project or skill]."
Let's Wrap This All Up
Finding an engineering internship near you takes strategy, but the opportunities are there—if you know where to look.
Use Handshake, Nerd Werk, and university job boards to find openings.
Target local companies, research labs, and city engineering projects.
Network with engineers in your area; referrals can land you internships faster than applying online.
If you need an internship ASAP, check daily for new postings and contact companies directly.
The best internships aren’t always advertised, sometimes, you have to go out and create the opportunity yourself. Start your search today, and don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for the opportunity you want.