At a glance
- Work with and learn from experienced engineers in a commercial environment
- Put your classroom knowledge to work in a real-world context out in the field
- Improve your problem-solving skills and learn to adapt to unfamiliar circumstances to meet the needs of the community
- Immerse yourself in the culture and explore beautiful Sri Lanka in your free time
Start Dates:
Completely flexible dates
See DatesMinimum Duration:
One Week
Age:
18 or over
You should have completed at least one year of engineering related studies or training
Is an engineering work placement right for me?
Are you an engineering student or recent graduate looking for an overseas internship that stands out? If you:
- Love travelling and adventure
- Want to learn all about a culture different from your own
- Want to beef up your CV with relevant, real-world experience
Then our engineering internships abroad are ideal for you! Through our engineering placements, you’ll also learn valuable soft skills which are vital for your future career, such as adaptability and problem-solving.
Wondering how to get an engineering internship abroad with us? To join, you must have completed a minimum of one full academic year in an engineering discipline at a recognised university.
Our internships abroad for engineering students run throughout the year, including the months of June, July, and August. Perfect for anyone interested specifically for summer engineering placements! Our flexibility also makes this ideal for students interested in taking a break for gap year engineering internships.
What will I do in Sri Lanka?
On our engineering placements in Sri Lanka, you’ll become part of the day-to-day operations of an engineering company based in the capital, Colombo. You’ll work on ongoing projects under the supervision of a qualified local engineer, who will also serve as your mentor. They’ll be available to answer any questions you may have, and share career advice.
Your tasks vary depending on your skills, experience, and the assigned placement. We’ll confirm details about specific tasks and projects shortly before you arrive in Sri Lanka, but you can expect things like:
Work on complex designs using AutoCAD
You’ll have the chance to use and enhance the skills you already have in AutoCAD. From designing small parts to drawing up the architecture of a building, there will be options for any skill level.
Learn about the full project cycle
Most of our engineering placements are project based. Depending on how long you stay, you may be involved at various stages, or you may have the chance to see a project through to the end. Either way, you’ll learn all about the stages involved, which will contribute to your future career.
Bring designs to life with Lumion
Using this 3D rendering software, you’ll be able to produce high-resolution images, videos, and 360 panoramas. If you haven’t used it before, don’t worry! Lumion is highly intuitive, so you’ll be able to pick this up very quickly, and your supervisor will be there to help.
Work on the development of apps and bespoke software
We offer software engineering placements for anyone interested in this aspect of the field. You can work with a variety of technologies, such as Java and .Net, alongside experienced professionals. This is a great way to get some practical work experience before kick-starting your career!
Where will I work?
Colombo
Our internships abroad for engineering students are based in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling commercial hub and capital. It’s an exciting place to work, and a city of contrasts. Colombo boasts a blend of historic and modern buildings, street stalls, luxury shopping malls, and small sidewalk cafes and beachside restaurants. With an extensive and affordable public transport network, it’s easy to get around.
You’ll generally work in an office, but there are also many opportunities for overseeing projects in the field. You’ll also live with a local host family.
And if you need a break from the office, spend your lunch break on Galle Face Green, relaxing on the grass with some delicious street food from one of the vendors, or a packed lunch from your host family. In your free time, explore historical temples, historic buildings, and local museums, or bask on the beach. Don’t forget to pop by the local markets for some souvenirs or fresh produce!
What is a typical day like in Sri Lanka?
Once you’ve enjoyed breakfast with your host family, you’ll travel to your engineering work placement. You might be able to walk there, or take a bus or rickshaw. On your first day, our staff will accompany you to show you the way.
A typical day on this project runs from 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday. Some engineering placement options may require evening or weekend work if there are tight project deadlines.
The specific activities you’ll get involved in vary according to the engineering placement you’ve chosen. You’ll have the chance to get involved at the various stages of ongoing projects. Whatever the activity, you’ll be undertaking work that contributes towards the goals of the business.
At the end of the day, it’s time to relax. Get a taste of local cuisine sharing dinner with your host family. Join in on one of our regular socials, making friends with fellow interns and volunteers. Take time to explore the city, absorbing the sights and smells of your new home!
What are the goals of an engineering internship abroad?
The main goal of our engineering internships abroad is to provide you with educational and practical work experience in a professional setting. Spending time at a company will help you to truly understand:
- Why calculations are made
- How to deal with client demands
- What the crucial steps are in any design process
By working alongside qualified engineers, you’ll be able to share knowledge and ideas. It’s a great way to take part in cultural exchange and build working relationships to grow your network.
Gain engineering work experience in Sri Lanka as an intern, and prepare for your future career. Learn new skills, enhance your CV, and experience working life in a beautiful island nation!
Food and accommodation
You'll stay with a host family in Sri Lanka. They will welcome you into their home, eager to share their customs and have you teach them about your own culture. We believe that this is the best way to immerse yourself in the culture of Sri Lanka and have a truly unique experience.
We will always try to let you live alongside at least one other Projects Abroad volunteer or intern at the same host family. Your room will be modest, but comfortable, clean, and safe.
Your programme fee includes three meals a day.
Find out more about our accommodation.
Leisure activities and free time
Sri Lanka is well-known for its diverse landscapes. From beaches to tropical jungles, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant country.
The buzzing Pettah Market is a must-see. You can chat to friendly vendors, buy handmade products, and enjoy the electric atmosphere around you. For cultural enrichment, you can spend an afternoon in the National Museum of Colombo. The Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple is also a highlight, with its vast collection of artefacts.
The town of Galle is a sea port with a strong Dutch heritage and plenty of old colonial buildings to explore. You can also venture inland to hike in the hills, swim in the cool waterfalls, and visit traditional hill towns.
Sri Lanka's national parks include safari parks where you can spot wildlife like leopards and elephants. Or spend an early morning bird-watching in one of the wetland sanctuaries. There are also rainforest reserves crammed full of tropical biodiversity.
You’ll be sharing this unique experience with many other volunteers. This means you can travel solo or spend your free time with the friends you make during your trip.
Safety and staff support
Your safety and security is our prime concern. We have many procedures and systems to ensure you have the support you need to enjoy your trip with peace of mind. Our Projects Abroad staff are available 24 hours a day to help, and will be on hand to make sure you settle in well at your accommodation and placement. If you encounter any problems, they will be available to help at any time.
Find out more about safety and backup.
This placement is fully researched, safety audited, and risk assessed in accordance with the British Standard BS8848 for the Adventure Travel Sector.
Meet the team
Our accreditations
