High Performance & Sustainable Construction Intern - Summer 2026 (Des Plaines, IL)

Pepper Construction is seeking a High Performance & Sustainable Construction Intern for Summer 2026 in Des Plaines, IL. This internship involves supporting project teams in achieving sustainability goals and conducting building assessments. Candidates should be college students in Sustainable Construction or a related field, with strong communication and computer skills. The role offers networking opportunities, PTO, and a supportive environment, with a salary of $20-24/hour.
With offices in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Ohio, Pepper Construction is a national general contracting and construction management firm that primarily serves the private sector. Pepper Construction provides clients the experience and resources of a national company, combined with the hands-on approach of a local company.

WHY PEPPER? At Pepper, we work hard, but we make sure to have a good time doing it. If you're ready to take on an exciting role, apply today and join a team that values success, teamwork, and making a meaningful impact. We offer the following and more:
• Opportunities to network and grow professionally
• PTO and holidays - yes, even for interns!
• A supportive team environment that celebrates success
• Engaging and fun company-wide events
• Volunteer opportunities
• Meaningful work bringing a positive impact to communities

POSITION SUMMARY:

Pepper Construction Company is looking for a qualified, intelligent student with a passion for learning about the construction industry to come and experience life as a General Contractor. You will be working with the High Performance team to aid in carrying out Pepper's Building High Performance Services during construction to improve upon our building performance goals and work on projects that are leading edge in the sustainable building industry. Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Assist teams to achieve high performance goals
• Support project teams for all green rating certifications standards (LEED, WELL, LBC, Green Globes)
• Project site visits to conduct building assessments for Energy Star ratings and other energy performance aspects

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
• A college student entering their Sophomore, Junior year pursuing a bachelors degree in Sustainable Construction or a similar discipline with relevant coursework (required) for the 2026/27 school year.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA (preferred)
• Good communication skills - verbal and written
• Strong computer skills that allow you to learn and understand new technology and put it into practice quickly
• A confidence that allows you to work independently but a desire to be part of a team and work collaboratively in it
• Skilled at multi-tasking, but never taking your eye off the details that can change the outcome
• Reliable transportation to and from work-related activities and assignments
• Able to participate in the 12-week program from Memorial day to Mid-August in the Des Plaines, IL.

The salary for this position is $20-24/hour based on graduation year.

For additional information, visit www.pepperconstruction.com

Pepper Construction is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

Please note: Pepper does not sponsor work visas.