Structural Drafter Internships
Structural drafter internships give university students, recent graduates, and early-career switchers hands-on project experience, mentorship from working drafters and engineers, and, at many employers, a path toward a full-time offer. Openings are concentrated in {{top_industries_phrase}}, with {{top_employers_phrase}} among the employers posting roles now.
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Role Definition
The Drafter Intern will be involved in the entire design process, from conceptual model creation to leveraging the model for production level design and detailing. The Drafter takes ideas, rough sketches, and specifications to produce installation prints and bills of materials used to manufacture and install company products and projects. They assist in preparing 3D models, design and bid documents, phasing drawings, and as-built drawings. They are a vital link between design theory and practical application by translating critical design concepts into detailed technical drawings for mechanical and industrial end products and projects. This role profile is subject to change at any time.
PROTECT PEOPLE
- Safety comes first in everything I do
- I protect our seat at the table by doing my best work
- I develop myself and others
- I put the needs of the Company and others above my own
- I represent myself and the Company professionally at all times
BUILD RELATIONSHIPS
- I respect people
- I have a positive attitude
- I collaborate and build healthy external relationships
- I collaborate and build healthy internal relationships
- I engage in healthy conflict
- I act with honesty, integrity, and ethics
- I avoid dramatic and toxic behavior
FOCUS ON END GOALS
- I focus my efforts on providing valueadded work to the customer; “work in the business”
- I start with the end in mind
- I honor our process
- I act with the greater good of the company and the team in mind
- I embrace the EOS process and take the appropriate amount of time to "work on the business"
- I respect Company resources
DRIVE INNOVATION
- I offer 2 Second Lean improvements
- I act with a continuous improvement mindset; low tech or high tech
- I think differently to create value and solve problems
Top 5 Role Responsibilities:
1.Detailing of Parts and Assemblies for Fabrication
- Develop detailed fabrication drawings, assemblies, and components based on models, sketches, specifications, and engineering direction.
- Translate design intent into clear, buildable documentation that supports fabrication, prefabrication, and assembly.
- Specify dimensions, materials, finishes, tolerances, and connection methods required for manufacturing and assembly.
- Produce complete working plans, elevations, details, and revisions with a high level of accuracy and consistency.
- Utilize point cloud data, field measurements, and existing drawings to accurately represent existing conditions.
- Perform jobsite observations and field verification as needed to confirm dimensions, interferences, and constructability.
- Collaborate with engineers, designers, and fabrication teams to resolve detailing challenges and ensure buildable solutions.
- Support shop and field personnel by providing clear drawings, answering questions, and incorporating feedback into revisions.
- Apply company standards, templates, and detailing best practices to ensure consistency across projects.
- Integrate continuous improvement ideas, including prefabrication opportunities and efficient detailing methods.
2.Produce Field Installation Drawings from Revit Models
- Develop installation drawings that clearly communicate how systems, equipment, and assemblies are to be installed in the field.
- Prepare layouts, elevations, sections, and details showing installation requirements, dimensions, and connection methods.
- Incorporate constructability considerations including access, sequencing, tolerances, and field constraints.
- Coordinate with engineers, designers, vendors, and field teams to ensure installation drawings reflect current project conditions and requirements.
- Participate in project coordination efforts to identify and resolve installation conflicts prior to construction.
- Maintain accuracy and alignment between field drawings, models, and fabrication documents.
- Manage drawing set production including printing, plotting, and publishing to project collaboration platforms.
- Track redlines, markups, and feedback, and update drawings to maintain current, issuedforconstruction documents.
- Provide timely updates to support field execution and reduce rework or installation delays.
3.Revit Modeling
- Create, modify, and maintain 3D models in Revit and other CAD platforms to support design development, coordination, and detailing.
- Develop model components that accurately represent equipment, systems, structures, and architectural elements.
- Utilize modeling to drive drawing generation, fabrication outputs, and installation documentation.
- Apply disciplinespecific modeling practices (mechanical, structural, process, electrical, etc.) as assigned.
- Interpret and incorporate design input from engineers and designers into coordinated models.
- Identify and communicate clashes, inconsistencies, or constructability concerns within the model.
- Utilize collaboration tools (e.g., model sharing platforms, markup tools) to gather feedback and incorporate revisions.
- Perform basic calculations and geometric evaluations (angles, clearances, layout constraints) to support accurate modeling and detailing.
- Maintain model organization, naming conventions, and standards in alignment with company BIM practices.
4.Produce Fabrication Drawings from Models
- Generate fabricationready drawings directly from coordinated models, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
- Extract and organize views, sections, and details required for manufacturing and prefabrication.
- Ensure drawings reflect coordinated design intent, material requirements, and fabrication constraints.
- Utilize point cloud data and asbuilt information to validate models and detailing accuracy.
- Support development of bills of materials (BOMs) and part lists associated with fabricated assemblies.
- Incorporate shop feedback and revise drawings to improve clarity, manufacturability, and efficiency.
- Coordinate with fabrication teams and vendors to resolve detailing issues and support production.
- Ensure drawing packages meet project expectations for quality, timeliness, and constructability.
5. Make Process Flow Diagrams and Equipment Lists with Direction from Designers/Engineers
- Assist in the development and updating of Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) under direction from engineers and designers.
- Support creation and maintenance of equipment lists aligned with design intent and project requirements.
- Extract data from models and drawings to populate equipment schedules and documentation.
- Maintain consistency and accuracy of documentation across PFDs, models, and drawing sets.
- Prepare and update engineering change documentation (revisions, redlines, and change logs).
- Support project documentation efforts including asbuilt drawings and final deliverables.
- Organize and manage drawing files, revisions, and documentation within project systems.
EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS
- Previous internship experience of drafting work experience or in a similar position, preferred.
- Working knowledge of basic computer programs like Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook, and online collaboration tools. Proficiency in Autodesk products like Revit, and AutoCAD is desired, with knowledge of Inventor, Tekla Structures, Navisworks, etc., beneficial.
- Travel up to 10% or as needed, by air and ground.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly
- Continuously requires vision, hearing, twisting, and talking.
- Frequently requires standing, fine dexterity, sitting, and handling.
- Must be able to ascend and descend ladders, scaffolds, stairs, and work in confined spaces and in proximity to loud equipment.
- Must be able to move safely over uneven terrain.
- Must be able to see and respond to dangerous situations.
- Must be able to wear personal protective gear most of the day.
- Must be able to work in cold/hot environments and on concrete floors.
- Occasionally requires walking, lifting, carrying, reaching, kneeling, pushing/pulling, bending, and crouching.
- Continuously requires vision, hearing, twisting, and talking.
- Must be able to traverse irregular and steep terrain.
- Must be able to stand for extended durations.
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position at this time.
Keen Project Solutions is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment (minorities, females, veterans, individuals with disabilities, sexual orientation, or other protected categories in accordance with state and federal laws). The Company is a drug and alcohol-free workplace, and background checks are required if applicable.
About Keen Project Solutions LLC
Keen Project Solutions is a design-build and turnkey engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) partner that listens first, because better planning leads to better outcomes.Role Definition
The Drafter Intern will be involved in the entire design process, from conceptual model creation to leveraging the model for production level design and detailing. The Drafter takes ideas, rough sketches, and specifications to produce installation prints and bills of materials used to manufacture and install company products and projects. They assist in preparing 3D models, design and bid documents, phasing drawings, and as-built drawings. They are a vital link between design theory and practical application by translating critical design concepts into detailed technical drawings for mechanical and industrial end products and projects. This role profile is subject to change at any time.
PROTECT PEOPLE
- Safety comes first in everything I do
- I protect our seat at the table by doing my best work
- I develop myself and others
- I put the needs of the Company and others above my own
- I represent myself and the Company professionally at all times
BUILD RELATIONSHIPS
- I respect people
- I have a positive attitude
- I collaborate and build healthy external relationships
- I collaborate and build healthy internal relationships
- I engage in healthy conflict
- I act with honesty, integrity, and ethics
- I avoid dramatic and toxic behavior
FOCUS ON END GOALS
- I focus my efforts on providing valueadded work to the customer; “work in the business”
- I start with the end in mind
- I honor our process
- I act with the greater good of the company and the team in mind
- I embrace the EOS process and take the appropriate amount of time to "work on the business"
- I respect Company resources
DRIVE INNOVATION
- I offer 2 Second Lean improvements
- I act with a continuous improvement mindset; low tech or high tech
- I think differently to create value and solve problems
Top 5 Role Responsibilities:
1.Detailing of Parts and Assemblies for Fabrication
- Develop detailed fabrication drawings, assemblies, and components based on models, sketches, specifications, and engineering direction.
- Translate design intent into clear, buildable documentation that supports fabrication, prefabrication, and assembly.
- Specify dimensions, materials, finishes, tolerances, and connection methods required for manufacturing and assembly.
- Produce complete working plans, elevations, details, and revisions with a high level of accuracy and consistency.
- Utilize point cloud data, field measurements, and existing drawings to accurately represent existing conditions.
- Perform jobsite observations and field verification as needed to confirm dimensions, interferences, and constructability.
- Collaborate with engineers, designers, and fabrication teams to resolve detailing challenges and ensure buildable solutions.
- Support shop and field personnel by providing clear drawings, answering questions, and incorporating feedback into revisions.
- Apply company standards, templates, and detailing best practices to ensure consistency across projects.
- Integrate continuous improvement ideas, including prefabrication opportunities and efficient detailing methods.
2.Produce Field Installation Drawings from Revit Models
- Develop installation drawings that clearly communicate how systems, equipment, and assemblies are to be installed in the field.
- Prepare layouts, elevations, sections, and details showing installation requirements, dimensions, and connection methods.
- Incorporate constructability considerations including access, sequencing, tolerances, and field constraints.
- Coordinate with engineers, designers, vendors, and field teams to ensure installation drawings reflect current project conditions and requirements.
- Participate in project coordination efforts to identify and resolve installation conflicts prior to construction.
- Maintain accuracy and alignment between field drawings, models, and fabrication documents.
- Manage drawing set production including printing, plotting, and publishing to project collaboration platforms.
- Track redlines, markups, and feedback, and update drawings to maintain current, issuedforconstruction documents.
- Provide timely updates to support field execution and reduce rework or installation delays.
3.Revit Modeling
- Create, modify, and maintain 3D models in Revit and other CAD platforms to support design development, coordination, and detailing.
- Develop model components that accurately represent equipment, systems, structures, and architectural elements.
- Utilize modeling to drive drawing generation, fabrication outputs, and installation documentation.
- Apply disciplinespecific modeling practices (mechanical, structural, process, electrical, etc.) as assigned.
- Interpret and incorporate design input from engineers and designers into coordinated models.
- Identify and communicate clashes, inconsistencies, or constructability concerns within the model.
- Utilize collaboration tools (e.g., model sharing platforms, markup tools) to gather feedback and incorporate revisions.
- Perform basic calculations and geometric evaluations (angles, clearances, layout constraints) to support accurate modeling and detailing.
- Maintain model organization, naming conventions, and standards in alignment with company BIM practices.
4.Produce Fabrication Drawings from Models
- Generate fabricationready drawings directly from coordinated models, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
- Extract and organize views, sections, and details required for manufacturing and prefabrication.
- Ensure drawings reflect coordinated design intent, material requirements, and fabrication constraints.
- Utilize point cloud data and asbuilt information to validate models and detailing accuracy.
- Support development of bills of materials (BOMs) and part lists associated with fabricated assemblies.
- Incorporate shop feedback and revise drawings to improve clarity, manufacturability, and efficiency.
- Coordinate with fabrication teams and vendors to resolve detailing issues and support production.
- Ensure drawing packages meet project expectations for quality, timeliness, and constructability.
5. Make Process Flow Diagrams and Equipment Lists with Direction from Designers/Engineers
- Assist in the development and updating of Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) under direction from engineers and designers.
- Support creation and maintenance of equipment lists aligned with design intent and project requirements.
- Extract data from models and drawings to populate equipment schedules and documentation.
- Maintain consistency and accuracy of documentation across PFDs, models, and drawing sets.
- Prepare and update engineering change documentation (revisions, redlines, and change logs).
- Support project documentation efforts including asbuilt drawings and final deliverables.
- Organize and manage drawing files, revisions, and documentation within project systems.
EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS
- Previous internship experience of drafting work experience or in a similar position, preferred.
- Working knowledge of basic computer programs like Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook, and online collaboration tools. Proficiency in Autodesk products like Revit, and AutoCAD is desired, with knowledge of Inventor, Tekla Structures, Navisworks, etc., beneficial.
- Travel up to 10% or as needed, by air and ground.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly
- Continuously requires vision, hearing, twisting, and talking.
- Frequently requires standing, fine dexterity, sitting, and handling.
- Must be able to ascend and descend ladders, scaffolds, stairs, and work in confined spaces and in proximity to loud equipment.
- Must be able to move safely over uneven terrain.
- Must be able to see and respond to dangerous situations.
- Must be able to wear personal protective gear most of the day.
- Must be able to work in cold/hot environments and on concrete floors.
- Occasionally requires walking, lifting, carrying, reaching, kneeling, pushing/pulling, bending, and crouching.
- Continuously requires vision, hearing, twisting, and talking.
- Must be able to traverse irregular and steep terrain.
- Must be able to stand for extended durations.
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position at this time.
Keen Project Solutions is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment (minorities, females, veterans, individuals with disabilities, sexual orientation, or other protected categories in accordance with state and federal laws). The Company is a drug and alcohol-free workplace, and background checks are required if applicable.
About Keen Project Solutions LLC
Keen Project Solutions is a design-build and turnkey engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) partner that listens first, because better planning leads to better outcomes.Tips for Your Structural Drafter Internship Search
Apply earlier than you think necessary
Large architecture, engineering, and construction firms open summer internship applications the preceding fall, sometimes as early as September. Smaller companies and co-op programs post closer to start dates, so openings appear throughout the year. Set up alerts and check listings regularly rather than waiting for a single busy season.
Build a portfolio before you apply
Hiring teams for structural drafter interns want something concrete to evaluate. Collect two or three completed CAD or BIM projects, class assignments count, document the tools you used (Revit, AutoCAD, Tekla), and make the files or screenshots accessible. A linked portfolio gives recruiters more than a resume alone ever can.
Work your campus network and apply directly at the same time
Campus career fairs surface structured programs tied specifically to your university, and professors or career center staff often know which firms recruit from your school before roles post publicly. Apply directly to smaller companies running their own cohorts alongside that campus activity, the two channels reach different employers and together widen your pool.
Practice your technical screen out loud
Structural drafter intern interviews typically include a technical or software-skills screen, expect questions on reading construction documents, applying drafting standards, or demonstrating Revit or AutoCAD workflows. Practice explaining your reasoning as you work through problems, because interviewers weigh how you think through a drawing or detail as much as the finished result.
Structural Drafter Internships: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a structural drafter internship?
Lead with coursework, personal projects, and a CAD or design portfolio rather than work history, hiring teams expect limited experience at the intern level, and a portfolio gives recruiters something concrete to assess. Combine direct applications with campus career fairs, where structural drafting recruiters often move faster for students they meet face to face.
Can a structural drafter internship turn into a full-time job?
Many employers extend return offers to strong interns, but conversion is never guaranteed. What drives it most is the quality of your work on real deliverables, available headcount when your internship ends, and how early you signal interest. Perform well, ask questions, and treat every assignment as a sample of your full-time work without counting on an offer.
When should I apply for structural drafter internships?
Earlier than most expect. Large engineering and construction employers recruit summer interns during the preceding fall semester, so deadlines can arrive before spring courses begin. Smaller firms and co-op programs post closer to their actual start dates, which means openings appear year-round. Checking listings regularly keeps you ahead of rolling deadlines.
Are structural drafter internships paid?
Most professional structural drafter internships in the United States are paid. Compensation varies by company size, industry, and location, and listings show it where the employer chooses to disclose it. Unpaid internships exist but are uncommon at established firms in the architecture, engineering, and construction sectors.
What should a structural drafter internship resume include?
Lead with two or three complete, documented projects rather than work history, name the software used (Revit, AutoCAD, Tekla, or similar) and link to or describe where the work can be seen, such as a portfolio site or project writeup. Add relevant coursework in structural systems, construction documents, or building codes, and keep the whole resume to one page.
Can international students get structural drafter internships?
Yes. F-1 students can intern through CPT while enrolled or through OPT work authorization after finishing a degree, and the employer does not have to file anything for either, so many companies are open to international interns. Confirm your eligibility and timing with your university's international student office before accepting an offer.
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