Civil Engineering Intern – Aviation

Description

Talbert, Bright & Ellington (TBE) is seeking highly motivated Civil Engineering Interns with a passion for aviation and infrastructure development. This internship provides hands-on experience working on airport planning, design, and construction projects. The intern will support engineering staff in technical design work, field observations, project research, and preparation of plans and reports for aviation-related projects.

Opportunities available in Charlotte, NC. Internships are available for Fall 2026, Spring 2027, and Summer 2027 terms.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist engineers with the design and preparation of airfield plans, drawings, and technical documents (e.g., runways, taxiways, aprons, grading, drainage, utilities).
• Utilize AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and other design tools to support project development.
• Conduct basic engineering calculations such as pavement geometry, grading, and stormwater flow estimates.
• Shadowing airfield inspections, construction observation, and data collection under supervision.
• Assist in preparing engineering reports, design narratives, cost estimates, and quantity takeoffs.
• Perform research related to FAA design standards, regulations, and airport planning requirements.
• Help organize project documentation, prepare exhibits, and contribute to project presentations.
• Collaborate with engineers, planners, and project managers to meet project deadlines and maintain high-quality deliverables.

Qualifications

Required

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil Engineering or a closely related field.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Valid driver’s license.
• Willingness to work in-person at one of the three offices. (Charlotte NC, Wilmington NC, Richmond VA)

Preferred

• Demonstrated interest in aviation, airports, or transportation engineering.
• Experience with Civil 3D, GIS, Bluebeam, or other engineering tools.
• Knowledge of FAA Advisory Circulars and airport design standards.
• Previous internship or project experience in civil engineering, transportation, or infrastructure.
• Basic understanding of civil engineering concepts, especially site development, grading, drainage, or transportation.

What We Offer

• Hands-on experience with real aviation engineering projects.
• Mentorship and guidance from experienced airport engineers and project managers.
• Exposure to FAA standards, airport design processes, and airfield construction practices.
• Supportive and collaborative team environment.
• Opportunity to build practical skills that support future full-time roles at TBE.

Benefits (subject to eligibility)

• Excellent compensation package
• Outstanding holiday and paid-time-off programs
• 401(k) Plan and Match
• Career Path Development Program (Management & Technical Career Tracks)
• Mentorship Program
• Competitive health and dental insurance premiums
• Variety of voluntary benefit options
• Short-Term Disability/Long-Term Disability
• Company-furnished life insurance
• Employee Assistant Program (EAP)
• Flexible Spending Account
• and More

About Talbert, Bright & Ellington

Talbert, Bright & Ellington (TBE), established in 1994, is a specialty engineering firm that is exclusive to aviation. Our firm has extensive experience in full-service planning, design, and construction administration at aviation facilities throughout the Southeastern United States from our offices located in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Columbia, South Carolina. We are committed to providing cost-effective airport and aviation facility developments, civil and municipal engineering, and land development services to assist airports and their clients.

To better assist our Charlotte location, TBE opened a Columbia, SC office in 2004. Our Columbia location provides master planning and environmental compliance, engineering design, project inspection, and construction administration services.