Fire Protection Engineering Intern (Summer 2026)

American Electric Power

The Role

Overview

Assist with fire protection engineering projects, calculations, code reviews, and site inspections.

Key Responsibilities

  • risk assessments
  • cost estimates
  • design standards
  • hydraulic calculations
  • site inspections
  • record management

Tasks

-Participate in fire risk assessments and hazard identification. -Collaborate with emergency response teams and other departments including AEP’s Risk and Insurance Group. -Assist in training sessions. -Prepare cost estimates for fire protection system design, installation, and maintenance projects. -Develop, test, modify, and document fire protection design standards and spreadsheets. -Research and compile data on fire codes, standards, and best practices. -Perform hydraulic calculations, code compliance reviews, and detailed engineering studies using applicable fire protection standards. -Visit project sites, facilities, and supplier locations for inspections, acceptance testing, and system evaluations/troubleshooting. -Sports and Recreation: Cheer on the Columbus Clippers (minor league baseball), Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL) or Columbus Crew (MLS) and enjoy various sporting events throughout the summer, or catch a concert at the iconic Nationwide Arena. -Update, maintain, and index fire protection engineering records, drawings, and files.

Requirements

  • fire safety
  • cpr/firstaid
  • autocad
  • microsoft office
  • engineering degree
  • nfpa

What You Bring

-Practical experience in fire safety operations and compliance. -CPR/First Aid certification. -Basic understanding of fire prevention principles and safety codes (e.g., NFPA, IBC, IFC, FM Global). -Ability to work independently and as part of a team. -10-12 weeks -Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) AutoCAD or MicroStation. -Willingness to learn and take initiative. -Strong written and verbal communication skills. -Currently pursuing a degree in Fire Protection Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline. -Familiarity with NFPA standards and OSHA regulations. -Exposure to real-world emergency management scenarios. -Prior experience in fire safety or emergency services (volunteer or paid).

Benefits

-Parks and Recreation: Enjoy the great outdoors at one of the many parks, such as the Scioto Mile, featuring beautiful riverfront views, walking trails, and the stunning Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. -Food and Dining: Experience a thriving food scene with a wide range of dining options, from food trucks to fine dining. Don't miss the North Market and unique eateries in the German Village! -Festivals and Events: Columbus hosts a variety of summer festivals, including the Greek Festival, ComFest, the Columbus Asian Festival, Juneteenth on the Ave, the Ohio State Fair, the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival, and the Dublin Irish Festival, where you can enjoy live music, local food, and cultural activities – to name just a few of the many that take place! -Opportunity to contribute to meaningful safety initiatives. -Mentorship from experienced fire safety professionals. -Paid AEP-recognized holidays -401(k) account -Mid-Point: $30.00/HR -Cultural Scene: Explore the diverse arts and cultural attractions, including the Columbus Museum of Art, the Wexner Center for the Arts, Bridge Park in Dublin and the Short North Arts District, known for its galleries, boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. -$1000/month house stipend for eligible candidate -Shopping and Entertainment: Head to Easton Town Center or Polaris Fashion Mall for premier shopping experiences, both destinations feature an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. -Minimum: $25.00/HR -Intern Student Engineer: Pay is commensurate with education hours. -Competitive hourly rate.

The Company

About American Electric Power

-Powers millions across the United States with a vast electric transmission and distribution network. -Has been a leader in the transformation of the energy sector for over a century. -Focuses on reliable power generation, cutting-edge energy solutions, and a growing commitment to renewables. -Operates one of the largest electricity transmission networks in the U.S., delivering energy to homes, businesses, and industries. -Has a legacy of pioneering innovative technologies and projects to improve grid reliability and energy efficiency. -Is expanding its footprint in the renewable energy sector, including solar and wind power projects that are helping shape the future of energy. -Undertakes large-scale projects such as major power plant construction, infrastructure upgrades, and renewable energy installations, supporting both industrial and residential clients. -Is dedicated to sustainable energy and modernizing grid infrastructure, making it an influential player in the energy transition.

Sector Specialisms

Energy

Infrastructure

Commercial

Residential

Renewable Energy

Solar

Wind

Grid Solutions

Energy Efficiency

Combined Heat and Power

Energy Storage

Substations

Fuel Cells

Waste Heat Recovery

Peaking Generation Resources

Energy Data Analytics

Energy Supply