Intern - Design Engineer

Job Description

Our Internship and New College Graduate program is best designed for students who seek a truly immersive and hands‑on experience. At Southland, we view every student as a potential hire and ensure each intern, co‑op student, and new college graduate is set up for success in short and long‑term career goals. If a program that exposes you to exciting projects and potential career paths with one of the country’s largest MEP building systems firms appeals to you and you’re ready for the next big step,
JOIN our team and become part of an organization that values people, safety, innovation, collaboration, integrity, accountability, and sustainability.

Our internship program introduces candidates to a career in Design Engineering for the Design/Build HVAC, Plumbing and Fire Protection industry. The primary responsibility is to assist the design team in all aspects of our work.

• Assist Senior Engineers in design tasks as required.
• Perform basic deliverables such as calculations, drawings, and specifications related to heating, ventilating, and air‑conditioning systems under supervision of Senior Engineers.
• Perform basic calculations for a project, including heating/cooling loads, equipment selection and sizing, pipe and duct sizing, friction loss calculations, etc.
• Coordinate all aspects of the project design with project management, architects, and other trades through the completion phase of a project.
• Perform and check CADD drafting work.
• Review applicable codes and criteria and examine field conditions as required to support project design.

• Pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field; completion of Thermodynamics and HVAC Design classes highly desirable.
• Strong work ethic, initiative, and drive to get the job done.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to be resourceful and resilient.
• Ability to solve problems with limited support; quick learner who seeks answers independently.
• Positive attitude in adverse or non‑ideal situations.
• Exercise accountability in stressful situations (avoids placing blame).
• Goal oriented, collaborative spirit, and a good teammate with a “We vs. Me” attitude.
• Strong active listening skills and competent general business writing and public speaking.

• Increase knowledge of HVAC design, including equipment types and system operations (variable air, constant volume, refrigeration cycle).
• Develop communication skills with all management levels, including project management and field trades.
• Learn to read mechanical and plumbing plans.
• Improve general business writing skills and gain experience with CADD and related products.

Pay: For California‑based internship roles, the pay rate is $26.00 per hour, in alignment with program guidelines and market standards.

• Hands‑on classroom and on‑the‑job experience in your role.
• Opportunity to work side by side with company leaders.
• Socially distant group activities and team events.
• Paid housing (some locations).
• Paid internship/Co‑op.
• Potential full‑time employment opportunities.

• 401(k) plan with 50% company match (no cap) and immediate 100% vesting.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (100% paid for employee).
• Annual bonus program based upon performance, achievement, and company profitability.
• Term life, AD&D insurance, and voluntary life insurance.
• Disability income protection insurance.
• Pre‑tax flexible spending plans (health and dependent care).
• Paid parental leave.
• Paid holidays, vacation, and personal time.
• Training/professional development opportunities and company‑paid memberships for professional associations and licenses.
• Wellness benefits.

As one of the nation’s largest MEP companies, Southland Industries is built on the foundation of great people. Since 1949, we have put our people first, enabling growth, professional achievement, and innovation. If you want to join a fast‑paced environment where you’re engaged, challenged, and valued, apply now to join our dynamic team.

Southland Industries and all its subsidiaries are…