Internship

Internship

Direct Manager: Project Manager or Superintendent

Department: Operations 

Direct Reports: None

Classification: Non-Exempt 

Thornton Construction is seeking a Construction Management Intern for the summer of 2026. This internship provides an excellent opportunity for students pursuing a degree in Construction Management, Construction Engineering, or a related field to apply their academic knowledge in a real-world setting. The intern will work closely with project managers, site supervisors, and other construction professionals to support the planning, coordination, and execution of projects. Through this experience, the intern will develop a strong understanding of project management, field operations, and construction best practices while contributing to active job sites and project teams.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Project Coordination & Support

1. Assist project managers in overseeing and coordinating construction projects from start to finish.
2. Attend project meetings and provide administrative support, including documentation and reporting.
3. Help track project schedules, budgets, and compliance with safety and quality standards.
4. Learn how support departments collaborate with the Operations team to manage projects efficiently.
5. Gain an introduction to the software tools used daily by Project Managers (PMs) and Superintendents and their applications.

Field Experience & Site Support

1. Assist in monitoring work progress and ensuring adherence to project plans and specifications
2. Support site supervisors in coordinating subcontractors and material deliveries
3. Learn about the components of a project schedule, how it is developed, and why it is updated
4. Gain an overview of subcontractors/trades and how to run a subcontractor meeting
5. Conduct site visits to observe construction activities and learn about field operations.

Document Control & Reporting

1. Help maintain accurate project records, including RFIs, submittals, change orders, and progress reports.
2. Learn how to generate and maintain subcontract and purchase order logs.
3. Review shop drawings and submittals to understand their impact on construction progress.
4. Assist in reviewing drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
5. Support quality control efforts by documenting site conditions and ensuring compliance with company standards.

Safety & Compliance

1. Gain exposure to construction safety protocols and assist in safety inspections.
2. Ensure adherence to OSHA and company safety policies on job sites.
3. Participate in safety meetings and training sessions.
4. Learn how to secure project sites and company assets while maintaining a safe working environment

Qualifications

1. Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university in Construction Management or related field preferred.
2. Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications is a plus
3. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, experience with construction software is a plus
4. Willing to work on the jobsite or travel to project location as needed 

Attributes for Success

1. The Intern’s core values must match Thornton’s: Safety, Community, Empowerment, Quality and Service, Professionalism, and Accountability.
2. Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills
3. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
4. Maintain a professional working environment with other team members

Safety

Safety is our top priority in all aspects of construction. As an intern, you will gain firsthand experience in maintaining a safe job site by learning about OSHA requirements, attending safety meetings, and assisting with compliance tracking and inspections. You will develop an understanding of risk management and proactive safety measures to ensure a secure work environment for all team members.

Exceptional Quality and Service

Delivering high-quality projects with outstanding service is at the core of our operations. During your internship, you will support project teams in ensuring work meets design specifications, conduct site walkthroughs to track progress, and assist in reviewing submittals and shop drawings. By focusing on detail and excellence, you will contribute to maintaining our reputation for exceptional project delivery.

Community Involvement

We believe in giving back to the communities where we build. As an intern, you may have opportunities to participate in community outreach efforts or assist in company-sponsored philanthropic events that benefit the communities we serve.

Professionalism

A construction site is a dynamic, fast-paced environment that requires effective communication and professionalism. You will interact with project managers, subcontractors, and clients, learning how to navigate professional relationships, uphold ethical standards, and represent the company with integrity. You will also gain exposure to managing project documentation and correspondence with professionalism and accuracy.

Empowerment

Throughout your internship, you will be given opportunities to take initiative, contribute ideas, and collaborate with experienced professionals. You will be empowered to take on responsibilities such as assisting with RFIs, tracking schedules, and helping coordinate subcontractor meetings, allowing you to build confidence in your abilities.

Accountability

Successful construction projects require accountability at all levels. As an intern, you will learn the importance of meeting deadlines, tracking progress, and ensuring all tasks are completed with precision. You will be encouraged to take ownership of your work, from logging permits and subcontract agreements to assisting in project cost tracking, while also holding others accountable for project deliverables.