Internships
Our people are key to our success. We put collaboration above hierarchy, underscore our commitment to client service with quality and integrity, and encourage open dialogue with our partners as well as our own teams. We’re dedicated to making Coughlin Porter Lundeen a great place to work and to building careers so that, together, we thrive.
Internship Interest
Did we meet at a career fair? Interested in learning more about internship opportunities but not yet ready to apply? Let's keep in touch!
Current Opportunities
Our Culture At A Glance
hear it from our interns
Choosing the right internship can be challenging. If you're looking for a place where your contributions matter, where you can apply your skills to real projects, and where you can diversify your knowledge. - you've found the right spot. But don't just take our word for it; hear from two of our recent interns on their experiences.
Frequently asked questions
You've got questions, and we've got answers! We've shared a few of our most commonly asked questions about interning with us.
1. What is important to include in my application?
Cover letters are an opportunity to stand out! Tell us, in your own words, what your resume cannot and what makes you a strong candidate. Be specific and authentic, be concise, and most of all, keep it professional. We suggest keeping your resume to one page, including your GPA, relevant coursework, and most of all, don’t sell yourself short.
2. What should I avoid in my application?
Your resume should focus on your education, skills, experience, and accomplishments. Avoid photographs, information about your physical appearance, and keep information about hobbies and interests brief. Space on resumes is valuable; focus on your contributions as much as possible.
3. Do you do internships only in the summer?
Our firm occasionally hosts fall internships, but they are selective. If you are interested in being considered for an internship outside of the summer period, please note that in your cover letter or email to humanresources@cplinc.com.
4. What will I work on?
Interns here do real work on real projects. You’ll have the chance to take those classroom skills and apply them in real time. Interested in learning more? Read about Nicole’s Internship as a Structural Intern or Emmett's as a Civil Intern.
5. About how many interns do you accept each summer?
Our firm averages 6+ interns each summer but spots are limited. Getting your application in early gives you a head start for consideration!
6. Can I apply for a summer internship post graduation?
Intern applicants must be registered with their school for the fall semester, post completion of the summer internship. If you just graduated but would still like to work with us, please consider applying for one of our entry-level full-time positions at www.cplinc.com/careers or email humanresources@cplinc.com to learn more.
7. Do you have more than one office?
Yes, we have locations in both Downtown Seattle and Downtown Spokane. Internships are available for both locations. If you are interested in one location in particular, this is great to mention in your cover letter.
8. What market types does your firm work on?
If you’re looking for a place where you can grow your portfolio and work across a variety of market types, you’ve found the right fit. At Coughlin Porter Lundeen, we don’t work in silos. Engineers get the chance to experience numerous project types throughout their career: multifamily, PreK-12, higher education, commercial office, life science, healthcare, tribal, community, multifamily, mass-timber, historic renovation and more!
Mentorship and Career Development
One size does not fit all when it comes to career development. While our departmental structure provides direction and organization, it doesn’t limit us. Instead, we provide flexible, individual-focused career tracks and an environment where every employee—regardless of level or longevity—is encouraged to advance and grow. Through structured mentoring relationships and ongoing professional development opportunities, we support employees in building skills, expanding responsibilities, and achieving their career goals.
