HDR internships roll out to students and emerging professionals to gain hands-on experience within one of the world’s leading firms in engineering, architecture, environmental services, and consulting.
Known for its commitment to innovation and sustainable design, HDR provides an immersive learning environment where interns can apply their academic knowledge to real-world challenges while developing essential professional skills.
These internships help participants understand how multidisciplinary teams collaborate to shape impactful infrastructure and community-focused projects.
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Overview of the Program
HDR’s internship program is structured to give interns meaningful exposure to ongoing projects across multiple sectors, including transportation, water resources, architecture, environmental engineering, energy, and construction services. Interns are treated as valuable contributors rather than observers, and they are often assigned tasks that directly support project objectives. This practical experience helps students refine technical abilities, strengthen problem-solving skills, and gain insights into how ideas move from planning and design to implementation.
The program typically runs during the summer, but opportunities are available year-round depending on office needs. Interns may work in design studios, engineering teams, project management groups, environmental consulting units, or specialized research teams. This structure allows participants to explore their interests within HDR’s broad portfolio while contributing to projects that improve communities and infrastructure.
Learning Experience and Responsibilities
The daily responsibilities of HDR interns vary based on discipline, but most roles involve a combination of technical work, research, analysis, and collaboration. Engineering interns may assist with drafting, modeling, calculations, and field observations. Architecture interns often work on conceptual design, documentation, and visualization tasks. Environmental science interns might support impact assessments, data collection, mapping, and sustainability studies.
Regardless of the discipline, HDR places a strong emphasis on mentorship and learning by doing. Interns work closely with experienced professionals who provide guidance, answer questions, and help them understand industry best practices. This mentorship-driven environment allows interns to build confidence and deepen their understanding of the technical and interpersonal skills needed in their field.
Professional Development Opportunities
HDR is dedicated to helping interns grow both professionally and personally. Many offices host lunch-and-learn sessions, technical training, and skill-building workshops tailored to interns’ career paths. Interns often have opportunities to meet company leaders, join networking events, and participate in internal communities focused on innovation, sustainability, or diversity and inclusion.
One of the unique aspects of HDR’s internship program is its focus on collaboration. Interns are encouraged to work with peers from different disciplines, helping them understand how cross-functional teamwork leads to successful project outcomes. This exposure mirrors the real-world environment of the design and engineering industries, where diverse expertise often comes together to solve complex challenges.
Career Pathways and Future Opportunities
For many participants, an HDR internship serves as a powerful introduction to long-term career possibilities. Strong performers may be invited to return for additional internships or considered for full-time roles after graduation. HDR’s commitment to talent development means that many former interns eventually pursue careers within the company in engineering, architecture, environmental science, project management, or consulting.
The experience gained through HDR internships gives students a competitive advantage, equipping them with industry knowledge, practical skills, and a strong professional network. Participants leave the program with a deeper appreciation for the impact of thoughtful design, sustainable development, and innovative engineering solutions.
Official Website
You can find a full rundown on the official website.