Energy Efficiency Engineering Evaluation Internship

We are seeking a paid engineering intern during the summer of 2026 to support the company’s evaluation of energy efficiency programs in the Midwest. In this role, you will learn about the role of utilities in energy efficiency and the types of programs offered to help consumers save energy; hone your research skills and learn about the field of program evaluation; and help contribute to understanding the impact of energy efficiency on communities in Illinois. We’re ideally looking for someone with an engineering background and interest in energy systems.

Intern Responsibilities:

- Work directly with members of E Source’s portfolio evaluation team, which includes engineers, social scientists, statisticians, public policy experts and data scientists

- Analyzing program data utilizing Excel or other data analysis tools

- Evaluating and developing methodologies and algorithms to determine electric and fossil fuel savings for residential, commercial, and industrial energy efficiency technologies and programs

- Calculating energy and demand savings associated with energy efficient measures in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings

- Producing high quality reports and/or presentations based on engineering methods and findings

- Conducting other evaluation research as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

- Open to students currently working toward an associate’s, bachelor’s, or graduate degree in Engineering, Physics, Environmental Sciences, or related field

- An interest in the energy industry and energy efficiency

- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Microsoft Excel

- Understanding of the engineering principles underlying building energy use

- Detail oriented and strong attention to quality assurance

- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and technical research abilities

- Ability to juggle multiple time-sensitive priorities

- Attention to detail

Preferred Qualifications:

- Coursework, projects, and/or professional experience (internship/co-op) related to energy consumption, energy efficiency, clean energy, and sustainability in the built environment

- Quantitative research experience; experience with data analysis and data analysis tools such as Python

- Familiarity with ASHRAE, ENERGY STAR, IPMVP, IECC, and other residential and commercial building codes, standards, and protocols

- Experience with energy modeling, bin data analysis, and data logging with various types of equipment

- Experience and familiarity with residential and/or commercial building energy simulation modeling applications (eQuest, Open Studio, ENERGYPlus, ENERGYPro, EnergyGauge, etc.)

Internship Details:

- This is a remote opportunity out of Illinois. We are open to other US locations (if the candidate is associated with IL). This internship will involve regular coordination and remote meetings with E Source staff.

Pay rate: $30/hour

ABOUT OPINION DYNAMICS

Opinion Dynamics advances knowledge to address emerging energy and social issues through sound and insightful research. Our inter-disciplinary team of consultants develops actionable and insightful research to support an array of clients, including electric and gas utilities, regulators, and stakeholders. Our research supports planning, assessment, and optimizing energy efficiency, demand response, and renewable energy programs. Our team uses a customized approach leveraging innovative methodologies to answer our client’s questions. Our company fosters innovative thought, collegiality, and growth opportunities for our employees.

Opinion Dynamics provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Opinion Dynamics is also committed to fostering a more diverse workforce. BIPOC, women, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.