Design Exploration Internship Summer 2026

RIOS is an international, interdisciplinary design collective actively in pursuit of wonder within the design of the built environment. We believe design is an act of optimism, through which invention and ideas change the world. 

We are known for our contextual, bold solutions and are ever mindful about the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to deliver inclusive, resilient, and original design solutions. Our design process begins with attuning our conceptual thinking, where site program and context help define a holistically informed big idea. Through this idea, we explore ecology, material, and tectonic expression - developing form, confirming function, and defining experience.   

RIOS is seeking people interested in learning more about pathways in a design career for our summer 2026 Design Exploration internship. Ideal candidates have a passionate interest in learning more about a career in architecture, landscape architecture, interior architecture, or experiential design. This program is designed to allow the intern to “explore” all the realms of design that our office has to offer, in order to equip them to make decisions about their future passions and ambitions. Recent high school graduates, community college or trade school students, or those working in another profession interested in a career change are all welcome to apply. We seek highly motivated individuals who are passionate about design and would enjoy participating in our lively office culture. 

This is a full-time program running from June 1, 2026 through August 7, 2026. You must be available for the entire duration of the program. 

This is a paid internship at a rate of $23 per hour. 

How RIOS Will Provide Support

• A unique curriculum developed to provide exposure to architecture, landscape architecture, interior architecture, and experiential design. 
• Social events, site visits, tours, and research projects specifically developed for our office-wide interns. 
• Access to educational resources, software training, materials library.
• Dedicated in-office workstation 
• One-on-one mentorship meetings with office professionals and a dedicated office buddy to help get you accustomed to working in our office  

The ideal candidate possesses the following:

• Passion for creativity and proven commitment to curiosity. 
• Desire to be a “sponge” and soak up as many experiences as possible relating to work in architecture/related fields. 
• A high degree of self-motivation, able to take initiative and go above and beyond tasks given. 
• Ability to work and coordinate with a team. 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills. 

How to Apply

Submit an online application, along with a resume of previous work experience and a pdf portfolio of any design, art, or creative work you want to include at www.rios.com/careers/. If you do not have a portfolio of such work, please submit a 1-page personal statement describing your background and interest in exploring design at RIOS. Your application will not be considered without either a portfolio or a personal statement.

*If you are currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s program, the Design Exploration Internship is not for you. Please apply for our general 2026 Internship position - applications submitted here will not be considered for the general 2026 Internship position.*