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Public Works Engineering Intern

MSA has an opportunity for a Public Works Engineering Intern in our Des Moines, IA office. Public Works internships provide the ultimate variety of experiences and projects, ranging from construction to design and everything in between for municipalities. Project types can include utilities, water and wastewater systems, trails, roads, stormwater management, and more.

MSA internships are typically at least 12 weeks in duration, ranging from mid-May 2026 to mid-August 2026, with start / exit dates confirmed later in the hiring process. For engineering students seeking consulting experience with municipal projects, this is the position for you! Across the firm, MSA typically hires around 40 interns each summer.

MSA's roots reach back to 1919. What began with an entrepreneurial solo practitioner in Baraboo, Wisconsin, has grown into a robust and thriving company of over 400 employee owners conducting work across the country. As a 100% employee-owned firm, when we say we "own" our work, we mean it. We stand behind the quality of our designs, the integrity of our people, and the generations of client relationships we've formed based on trust, firm handshakes, and the belief that together we can accomplish anything.

Responsibilities

The work you may do :

• Inspect active construction work on municipal water, road / utilities, or wastewater projects
• Perform construction administration duties such as documenting activities, communicating to project managers regarding status and progress of construction, measuring and testing, providing general oversight, and interacting with contractors, sub-contractors, residents and City Staff.
• Help prepare permits and technical reports for municipal projects
• Assist with CAD work and project estimations
• Provide assistance with company initiatives that may involve different service lines
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

What you bring : Skills & Knowledge / Education & Experience :

Benefits

The compensation for this position ranges from $21 to $25 per hour, commensurate with experience. Higher compensation within this range will be paid to candidates with significant experience and exceptional qualifications.

Why MSA? We're glad you asked!

There's more! Eligible employees will also enjoy the following benefits :

MSA is an equal opportunity / affirmative action employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. At MSA, we value a diverse, inclusive workforce and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual's race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. If you are unable to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at hr@msa-ps.com.