Are there engineering gap year jobs available?

I'm interested in engineering and considering a gap year before college. Are there any engineering-related jobs suitable for a gap year that could also give me some experience in the field? What have others done?

There are a few possible options relating to engineering that high school graduates can pursue during a gap year. The availability of these jobs will depend largely on your location, prior experience, and specific interests.

Entry-level jobs within the engineering field could include assistant roles in a local engineering firm. While these positions often don't involve direct engineering work, you might assist with project management, data collection, and other administrative tasks. This can grant insight into the workflows and practices within the industry.

Research internships could be another possibility, especially at local universities or tech companies. Many groups accept high school graduates and offer a hands-on experience that often includes data analysis, lab work, and problem-solving. While these positions are generally unpaid, they provide valuable experience and potentially, college credits.

In addition, AmeriCorps and Habitat for Humanity periodically offer positions on construction or other engineering-related projects, allowing for a blend of service, travel, and industry experience.

Job Shadowing can also be an interesting option. Amid the busy schedule people usually have in high school, it's hard to find the experience of shadowing engineers. But this is a perfect experience for a gap year student that wants to explore the field.

Volunteering for an engineering-related non-profit, like Engineers Without Borders, is another approach. Understandably, these opportunities get competitive, so applying early is best.

So far, these are the most commonly pursued options when it comes to engineering-related jobs during a gap year.