Ho-Chunk Construction Intern

Construction Intern

HCI Construction
, a division of Ho-Chunk, Inc.

Location: South Sioux City, NE

Job Type: Full-time | Monday to Friday, standard business hours

Compensation will vary depending on experience, education level or degrees obtained, and the cost of living for the assigned work location.

Intern employees are categorized as seasonal full-time employees and will accrue one hour of paid sick time for every 30 hours worked. Accrual begins after 80 hours of consecutive employment in Nebraska.

Ho-Chunk, Inc. is the award‑winning economic development corporation of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska. Our mission is to drive long‑term economic growth and create meaningful employment opportunities for Tribal members.

HCI Construction is a Native‑owned, full‑service general contracting firm and a division of Ho-Chunk, Inc. With over 20 years of experience in vertical and civil construction, we provide innovative, quality‑driven construction solutions for government and commercial clients. Our team is committed to safety, sustainability, and supporting the long‑term prosperity of Tribal communities.

The Construction Intern supports ongoing construction projects by assisting with planning, documentation, and on‑site coordination. This internship provides hands‑on experience in construction management, allowing students to gain real‑world exposure to field operations, safety protocols, and project execution. The intern will be responsible for completing all tasks outlined in their summer project plans assigned by managers. Interns must participate in all mandatory internship programming, evaluation periods and professional development sessions.

Attending sessions remotely will be determined and approved by program manager.

• Assist project managers in the planning and coordination of construction activities
• Participate in on‑site visits to gain experience with field operations and safety practices
• Contribute to documentation, including daily reports, schedules, and budget tracking
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, and contractors to support project goals
• Research construction materials, technologies, and industry best practices
• Apply problem‑solving skills to identify and address project‑related challenges
• Attend training sessions to build technical skills and industry knowledge
• Perform other duties as assigned

• Currently enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related field
• Minimum GPA of 2.5
• Strong interest in construction and career development in the industry
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Valid driver’s license and insurability under company policy

• Familiarity with construction management software
• Prior experience in construction, trades, or field work
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite

• Work is performed in both professional office and active construction site settings
• May involve exposure to outdoor elements and construction‑related conditions
• Must be able to walk, stand, or sit for extended periods
• Must be able to navigate stairs, ladders, and uneven terrain as needed
• May need to lift and carry light to moderate loads
• Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals

Travel is anticipated for all new interns and includes a site tour of Dynamic Homes in Detroit Lakes, MN, which typically requires an overnight trip. Lodging, transportation, and other travel expenses are provided. This does not apply to ANG Interns.

Interns whose work location is in Sioux City, South Sioux City, Bellevue, Omaha, or Lincoln may be expected to travel to Winnebago, NE, for various professional development sessions with senior leaders within the company and community. Interns may be responsible for commuting to and from the assigned worksite for all required internship programming activities if no company vehicle is available. This does not apply to ANG or Dynamic Homes Interns.

• A mission‑driven culture dedicated to economic advancement and community impact
• Guided by strong NATIVE values and tribal‑owned purpose
• Career stability and opportunities across diverse industries
• A collaborative work environment that encourages innovation and professional growth

Ho-Chunk, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. However, preference may be extended to persons of Indian descent in accordance with applicable laws.