Alternative Energy Intern

Position Description

Alternative Energy Intern at Cushing Terrell. This is an in-person internship supporting our Alternative Energy team on real client projects.

What does this role involve day to day? You will assist with energy generation analyses and system sizing for solar photovoltaic and utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System projects, using tools like AutoCAD, PVSyst, and HOMER Grid/Pro.

What will I create? You will help develop drafting and design documents for alternative energy systems, apply electrical load calculation methods, and support multidisciplinary construction documents alongside our civil and electrical engineering teams.

What does success look like in this internship? You will build technical fluency in renewable energy system design and codes, gain exposure to the business side of the AEC industry, and leave with meaningful contributions to solar and BESS projects from planning through design.

Position Wage Range*

The expected wage range for this position is $21.00 to $26.00 per hour.

Required Qualifications**

• Completion of 3+ years of an engineering, energy, or related undergraduate program
• Basic knowledge of AutoCAD
• Basic knowledge of Adobe Suite, Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook, and Bluebeam
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to learn and adapt
• Ability to effectively collaborate and communicate with team members across disciplines
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications**

• Exposure to PVSyst or HOMER Grid/Pro
• Familiarity with electrical load calculations or energy production modeling
• Interest in renewable energy codes, standards, and regulations
• Basic understanding of civil engineering plans

Did you know that some people hold back on applying to jobs if they don't meet 100% of the listed requirements? We don't want you to hold back! If you check most of the qualifications above and believe you could successfully do the work, we encourage you to apply!

Position Responsibilities***

• Assist with energy generation analyses and system sizing for solar PV and utility-scale BESS projects using PVSyst and HOMER Grid/Pro
• Learn and apply electrical load calculation methods and industry codes to power system design
• Support the drafting and design of alternative energy systems in AutoCAD under the guidance of experienced engineers
• Contribute to renewable energy generation and energy storage system design
• Learn to read and interpret civil engineering plans to support multidisciplinary construction documents
• Collaborate with project teams across offices on solar and energy storage projects
• Attend site visits with project leads when opportunities allow

Working at Cushing Terrell

Cushing Terrell is a multidisciplinary design firm with 16 offices and more than 500 team members who bring together their expertise to deliver holistic built environments. Leveraging our influence as designers, we work to create sustainable systems and spaces that help people live their best lives.

Why Cushing Terrell

At Cushing Terrell, we empower creative designers to discover imaginative, responsible, first-of-their-kind environments. But more than that, we support a strong, cohesive team, from our design professionals to our business operations staff. Together, we champion diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, placing people at the center of our practice, thus our tagline, 'design meets you.' Together, we find joy in uncovering imaginative solutions for the people who work here, the people we work for, and the planet as a whole. We offer a competitive benefits package, work opportunities in a variety of locations and markets, and a company culture that celebrates all the unique viewpoints and personalities that make up our talented team.

Things to Note

*Actual pay will be determined based on the candidate's years of experience, licensure status, location, level of proficiency, and other job-related factors (as permitted by law). This position is also eligible for an annual performance bonus.

**Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Cushing Terrell will not sponsor applicants for work visas.

***The majority of the time, a person in this role will be sitting in an office with limited physical requirements. This may require individuals to bend, stretch, twist, and reach.

EEO Statement

Cushing Terrell is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. Contact 406.248.7455 if you require assistance or accommodation during the employment application process.

Agency Note

Note to recruitment agencies: Cushing Terrell does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or agencies. Any resume submitted to any employee of Cushing Terrell without a prior written search agreement will be considered unsolicited and the property of Cushing Terrell.