Construction & property internships 2025

Internships in this sector span a wide range of roles, including quantity surveying, site management, project management, building surveying, real estate consultancy, planning, and commercial property. Some placements are based on construction sites, others in office environments or client-facing roles. Most internships align with specific pathways like RICS, CIOB, or ICE, depending on your area of interest.

Many larger firms open applications from autumn to spring for summer internships, typically aimed at students in their penultimate year. These can be competitive, especially at the major consultancies and contractors, so apply early and meet deadlines. Smaller firms may recruit on a rolling basis, so keep checking. A clear, tailored application showing interest in the built environment goes a long way.

For technical roles like surveying or site management, yes—employers usually look for students on accredited degrees. But for roles in planning, consultancy, or sustainability, there’s often more flexibility. Some firms offer insight weeks or internships to first-years or students from broader disciplines, as long as you show a genuine interest in the sector and a willingness to learn.

Interns are often given real tasks: assisting with cost estimates, shadowing site managers, surveying properties, attending client meetings, or contributing to project reports. You’ll learn how the industry works day-to-day and get a feel for how different teams—architects, engineers, consultants, and contractors—interact. Most placements also include mentoring or feedback sessions to help you reflect and develop.

Very much so. Internships are often a feeder into graduate schemes—many firms use them to assess potential future hires. Even if a job offer doesn’t follow directly, having practical experience on your CV will set you apart. It shows you’ve seen the industry up close and are ready to hit the ground running.