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Engineering internship skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

7 min read

Quoted experts

Klaus Dölle,

Joseph Reichenberger PE [CA AZ HI NM NV], BCEE, F.ASCE

Some of the most important hard skills an engineering intern can possess include fluency in coding languages such as Python and C++, familiarity with software such as SolidWorks, and data collection and analysis. Computer fluency is a highly important skill in today's job market, especially within engineering.

When it comes to soft skills, interns of all kinds benefit greatly from excellent communication. Engineering interns benefit especially from great public speaking and presentation skills, and fluency with presentation tools such as Powerpoint.

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical engineering internship skills. We ranked the top skills for engineering interns based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 14.8% of engineering internship resumes contained engineering intern as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills an engineering internship needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 engineering internship skills for your resume and career

1. Engineering Intern

Engineering interns are entry-level employees, often students, who assist engineering teams gain practical experience in their profession and perform basic engineering tasks, such as reviewing less complex plans, performing basic engineering calculations, ensuring the safety of the system, assisting with launch operations, completing data analysis, execution of tasks assigned by engineers, writing of permits, the performance of computer modeling and inspection of parts of an engineering project. The responsibilities of an engineering intern are limited and most employers consider gaining experience the most important part of their job.

Here's how engineering interns use engineering intern:

Associate Engineering Intern Under Seas Division Responsible for developing and maintaining instruction sets for circuit board manufacturing.
Coordinate installation and maintenance projects for engineering intern team to complete per customer requirements.

2. Python

Python is a widely-known programming language. It is an object-oriented and all-purpose, coding language that can be used for software development as well as web development.

Here's how engineering interns use python:

Extended functionally and usability of an existing internal reporting solution with a number of new Python analysis and visualization functions.
Developed time specific automated in-house email distribution applications containing Excel reports using Python.

3. C++

C++ is a general-purpose programming language that is used to create high-performing applications. It was invented as an extension to the C language. C++ lets the programmer have a high level of domination over memory and system resources. C++ is an object-oriented language that helps you implement real-time issues based on different data functions

Here's how engineering interns use c++:

Programmed software-based self-test generator for OpenRISC1200 microprocessor using SVA and C++.
Compile whole project as a static lib, Create unit test project in C++ into call the function from game server.

4. Java

Java is a widely-known programming language that was invented in 1995 and is owned by Oracle. It is a server-side language that was created to let app developers "write once, run anywhere". It is easy and simple to learn and use and is powerful, fast, and secure. This object-oriented programming language lets the code be reused that automatically lowers the development cost. Java is specially used for android apps, web and application servers, games, database connections, etc. This programming language is closely related to C++ making it easier for the users to switch between the two.

Here's how engineering interns use java:

Developed Automation Scripts for Regression using Selenium Web Driver and Java.
Developed java based data driven automation framework using selenium and TestNG.

5. PowerPoint

Here's how engineering interns use powerpoint:

Performed experiments required for analyzing ultra-fine grain aluminum and coarse grain aluminum and presented results to a state-wide conference using PowerPoint
Created PowerPoint presentations detailing simulation setup and results for clients.

6. Solidworks

Here's how engineering interns use solidworks:

Drafted designs with SolidWorks and manufactured parts for engineering projects and aviation equipment.
Utilized SolidWorks to design and engineered instruments for Hot Cell applications.

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7. Work Ethic

Here's how engineering interns use work ethic:

Instructed in proper protocol for professional work ethic within medical environment.
Demonstrated strong work ethic by volunteering to stay until after midnight on several occasions to clean and maintain kitchen.

8. Data Analysis

Here's how engineering interns use data analysis:

Developed several inspection sheets used in data collection process, and implemented a more streamlined data analysis process for centrifugal pumps.
Developed algorithms to automate data analysis procedures, which saved time and increased the reliability and consistency of data analysis reports.

9. Linux

Linux is a Unix-like operating system. Just like Windows, Mac OS, and IOS, Linux is an operating system used by millions across the globe. Android itself is powered by the Linux operating system. Linux manages all the hardware resources that are associated with your computer. The software is famous because of the protection it grants from viruses, malware, and crashes. The Linux operating system is entirely free and is an open-source software meaning it can be altered by those equipped with the knowledge to code.

Here's how engineering interns use linux:

Handled various modifications of Linux file systems and installed applications on Linux machines.
Received training and hands-on work experience with Linux server appliance installation and configuration.

10. Project Management

Here's how engineering interns use project management:

Worked on project management including supervising contractor activities, scheduling and directing contractor crews, ensuring contract compliance, and legalese.
Worked closely with engineers and project management from initial project design to building the final operations and maintenance documents for customers.

11. Data Collection

Data collection means to analyze and collect all the necessary information. It helps in carrying out research and in storing important and necessary information. The most important goal of data collection is to gather the information that is rich and accurate for statistical analysis.

Here's how engineering interns use data collection:

Performed project planning and experimental design of product optimization methods, data collection, and some preliminary analysis.
Assisted in the development, data collection for, calibration, validation and application of transportation micro-simulation models.

12. SQL

Here's how engineering interns use sql:

Supported National Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite System Team with Destructive Physical Analysis data findings and analysis using SQL queries.
Designed and implemented proprietary data solutions by correlating data from SQL and NoSQL databases using Kafka.

13. Strong Analytical

Here's how engineering interns use strong analytical:

Maximized efficiency as a dedicated engineer with strong analytical and time management skills.

14. Windows

Windows is a chain of operating systems that controls a computer and is developed by Microsoft. Every version of Windows consists of GUI (graphical user interface), with a desktop that allows the user to open their files.

Here's how engineering interns use windows:

Documented installation process, providing crucial information to sales representatives regarding installing products in different Windows operating system.
Automated a computer simulation using Windows BATCH file generator.

15. Android

An android is an operating system designed for mobiles. It is a modified version of Linux Kernel and all other types of software that are designed for touchscreens. Like every other OS, android's job is to connect the device and the user. Android offers us numerous choices while buying a phone, it is Google and user-friendly as well.

Here's how engineering interns use android:

Documented Android technical documents to aid hardware-engineering teams in creating and compiling android test builds.
Developed android phone application tailored specifically to SunTherm Energies to streamline development with customers.

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What skills help Engineering Interns find jobs?

Tell us what job you are looking for, we’ll show you what skills employers want.

What skills stand out on engineering internship resumes?

Klaus Dölle

Associate Professor, School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences Senior Sustainability Scientist, Global Institute of Sustainability, SUNY College

Internship, language skills ( Paper industry is a multibillion international industry and most companies have affiliations all around the globe), good grades, good interpersonal skills, be able to work in a diverse team, good communication skills, passion....

What engineering internship skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?

Joseph Reichenberger PE [CA AZ HI NM NV], BCEE, F.ASCE

Professor of Civil Engineering and Environmental Science, Website

It has always been my philosophy that it doesn't matter how long it takes to finish your education; the important thing is to finish it. Because of the reduced opportunities for funding as mentioned in Question 1, this will cause a delay in finishing for many. It may impact some non-STEM majors to the point that their enrollment will decline as they see there are few jobs and the cost of education is too high for so few jobs. I believe many high school graduates will be going to community colleges to continue their education inexpensively (enrollment increasing, maybe more distance learning since space may be limited). There will be a significant number entering the "crafts" and take on apprenticeships in the construction and other industries (auto repair, for example, requiring high skills). The water industry is always looking for entry-level staff. This is one industry where you can start out as a meter reader and make it to general manager given enough "drive." Many have succeeded in this way.

In terms of skills to learn or pick up during a "gap" year or two would be to improve communication and writing skills; learn new software and possibly even network management. Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Building Information Modeling (BIM), and Remote Sensing are major areas in civil engineering where new, skilled employees are needed. Obtain certification in "Green Buldings" LEED, "Envision," and forms of "sustainability." These skills are going to be very important and will allow a student to find temporary or part-time employment to provide funding once the skills are learned.

What type of skills will young engineering internships need?

Radhakrishnaiah Parachuru

Senior Academic Professional, Georgia Institute of Technology

-Ability to function in groups and effective group management/communication skills
-Ability to quickly grasp and apply emerging technological and scientific advances
-Willingness to stay open and learn continuously
-Willingness to adjust and accommodate keeping larger interests in mind

What technical skills for an engineering internship stand out to employers?

Ge Wang Ph.D.

Chair Professor, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

As mentioned above, the AI stuff has attracted immediate attentions. The relevant courses will prepare our students better for the job market in the next several years. RPI has been promoting these things for a number of years, as an integral part of our strategic plan. Partnership with IBM and other companies is also invaluable.

Do you want to know more?

List of engineering internship skills to add to your resume

The most important skills for an engineering internship resume and required skills for an engineering internship to have include:

Engineering Intern
Python
C++
Java
PowerPoint
Solidworks
Work Ethic
Data Analysis
Linux
Project Management
Data Collection
SQL
Strong Analytical
Windows
Android
R

Engineering Drawings
JavaScript
Product Development
Test Procedures
Process Improvement
Test Results
GIS
RF
Engineering Support
Test Equipment
QA
Object Oriented Programming
HVAC
Auto CAD
Cost Estimates
Sigma

HTML
API
Jenkins
PLC
Construction Projects
LabVIEW
Test Data
Statistical Analysis
Aided Design
CSS
Geotechnical
Technical Reports
VBA
Perl
GPS

Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

Updated January 8, 2025

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