MDOT's internship program operates an internship program for undergraduate and graduate students studying civil engineering, civil technology, construction management, land surveying, or related technical fields. Students may participate for up to six years, with credit-hour and GPA requirements governing continued eligibility. Assignments are made to MDOT locations across the state's seven regions.

Day to day, interns perform entry- and intermediate-level technical work supporting MDOT's road, bridge, and facilities programs. Typical duties include inspecting asphalt and concrete placement and bridge work, reviewing traffic plans, measuring material quantities, reading construction plans, verifying roadway grades and alignment, performing concrete quality-control and strength testing, conducting soil and material sampling, assisting survey crews with equipment and layout work, and supporting the development of design plans, specifications, and project documentation.

Interns work directly alongside MDOT engineers, technicians, and field staff, gaining practical civil engineering experience, exposure to government project administration, and a professional network within the department. Successful completion of the internship, combined with satisfactory performance, can lead to consideration for a permanent position with MDOT for graduating students.