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High Performance & Sustainable Construction Intern - Summer 2026 (Des Plaines, IL)
Pepper Construction Group
A construction firm delivering complex, high-quality projects across multiple sectors.
Assisting High Performance team in achieving sustainable construction goals and green rating certifications
19d ago
$20 - $24
Entry-level
Internship
Des Plaines, IL
Hybrid
Company Size
500 Employees
Service Specialisms
Construction services
Project Management
Design-Build
General Contracting
Preconstruction
Sustainability
Interior Construction
Building Information Modeling (BIM)
Sector Specialisms
Commercial
Higher Education
Healthcare
Entertainment
Concrete Shell Construction
Self-Perform Labor
Role
What you would be doing
site visits
energy assessments
green certifications
team support
performance goals
Project site visits to conduct building assessments for Energy Star ratings and other energy performance aspects
Assist teams to achieve high performance goals
Support project teams for all green rating certifications standards (LEED, WELL, LBC, Green Globes)
What you bring
3.0 gpa
communication
reliable transport
sustainable construction
computer skills
multi-tasking
Minimum 3.0 GPA (preferred)
Good communication skills – verbal and written
Reliable transportation to and from work-related activities and assignments
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.
Strong computer skills that allow you to learn and understand new technology and put it into practice quickly
Skilled at multi-tasking, but never taking your eye off the details that can change the outcome
Able to participate in the 12-week program from Memorial day to Mid-August in the Des Plaines, IL.
A confidence that allows you to work independently but a desire to be part of a team and work collaboratively in it
Benefits
Volunteer opportunities
PTO and holidays – yes, even for interns!
A supportive team environment that celebrates success
The company was established as a small general contractor in the Chicago area and has since grown into a trusted industry leader.
Pepper is known for its innovative use of technology, such as building information modeling (BIM), to enhance efficiency and project outcomes.
They specialize in a wide range of sectors, including commercial, residential, industrial, healthcare, education, and transportation.
Pepper has completed notable projects across the U.S., including multi-story office buildings, educational campuses, and healthcare facilities.
The company prioritizes collaborative partnerships, working closely with clients and stakeholders to ensure successful project delivery.
Pepper’s track record includes a variety of iconic projects, such as state-of-the-art medical centers and large-scale infrastructure developments.
Culture + Values
90% Indoors
Time Spent
The majority of daily time is spent indoors, highlighting the importance of creating mindful and enjoyable indoor environments.
Safety: At home, at work and in between – the safety of everyone is our first priority. Be present.
Integrity: We fulfill our commitments and build hope for tomorrow by intentionally making choices that reflect our character today. No exceptions.
Stewardship: We take the long view; serving as trustworthy stewards looking out for the best interests of our people, our clients and the shared resources with which we are entrusted.
Diversity: Our differences make us stronger. By seeking diverse perspectives and embracing our differences, we better serve our purpose, and we all share in success.
Partnership: We are a transparent, listening organization that creates a culture full of opportunity for our people and our partners, while supporting our clients’ ambitions.
Leadership: By learning and acting on new ideas, we lead by example and take meaningful risks that drive our people, our technology and our industry forward.
Enjoy Life: We spend more than a third of our lives at work. We take the time to laugh, to enjoy the journey – and stay mindful of the quality of life we enable.
Environment + Sustainability
1.8M Metric Tons CO₂
CO₂ Reduced Over Five Years
The company eliminated almost 1.8 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions across its projects over the last five years.
390,000 Solar Panels
Installed Solar Energy Systems
The Cincinnati office achieved LEED Zero Energy certification with 390 solar panels generating approximately 220,000 kWh/year.
188,034 MWh Solar
Solar Energy Generated
Through the 'Path to Net Zero' program, the company generated 188,034 MWh of solar energy, enough to power approximately 17,657 homes.
66.7M kBTu Saved
Energy Savings Achieved
The 'Path to Net Zero' program saved 66,660,872 kBTu of energy, equivalent to heating approximately 451,067 homes.
Net-zero target embedded in Tomorrow Transformed commitment: aim for buildings that generate more energy than they consume.
Five carbon-reduction strategies: low-GWP refrigerants, solar energy, carbon-infused concrete, optimal insulation R-values, water-saving technologies.
Indiana office earned Energy Star certification; company renovated a 112-year-old building to achieve Net-Zero, LEED Gold, and WELL Silver certifications.
First operational Net-Zero Jobsite Trailer (2018): uses 27 PV panels, over 100% energy reduction compared to traditional trailers, thermal envelope, and low-VOC materials.
Inclusion & Diversity
Launching 2024
Internship Program
Provides paid summer internships for undergraduates in construction-related fields.
Committed to respect and dignity, with a zero-tolerance policy for racism and discrimination.
Supports women and minority-owned businesses through strategic DEI pillars and partnerships.
Partners with women and minority-owned businesses through the Hire 360 initiative.
Hosts a Chicagoland Women in Leadership peer group for networking and collaboration.
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