Research & Development Engineering Intern
Research & Development
Engineering Research Center Intern*
(20-25 hours per week)
*Year-round Internship (not a summer internship)
JOB DESCRIPTION:
This internship position supports testing of water treatment systems at the District’s Engineering Research Center (ERC) and assists with other research activities at the treatment facility. The water treatment systems are smaller-scale versions of the large water purification systems used at the District to turn wastewater into drinkable water, and referred to as “pilot” systems.
The intern will always work under the supervision of an R&D pilot operator and/or scientists. Depending on qualifications, the intern may be assigned to assist with tasks such as operating pilot systems, performing routine maintenance (such as cleaning equipment), troubleshooting issues, and repairs when needed. This position involves working in outdoor environments that may be loud, wet, and dirty, requiring the ability to perform hands-on tasks in such conditions. Tasks may also include assisting with installing or cleaning membranes and performing other physical activities based on training that the intern will receive. Tasks will require careful adherence to standard procedures.
In addition to system operations, the intern will assist in reviewing pilot performance data, collecting water samples, and conducting basic water tests in the laboratory. The intern will also help create reports and presentations that explain the findings from the testing.
Typical Qualifications
We’re looking for candidates who are interested in water treatment and R&D work, have a foundational knowledge of scientific and technical concepts, and are comfortable working with tools and machinery, as many of our pilot units are manually operated and require daily inspections and monitoring. Some hands-on experience and mechanical aptitude are a plus, especially if it involves working with equipment like small pumps or filters.
To be eligible, you must be a currently enrolled full-time student studying Engineering, Environmental Science, or a similar field. You should have at least one year remaining before graduation.
You’ll need good organizational, communication, and writing skills and should be comfortable using basic computer programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. A valid California Class “C” Driver’s License and proof of automobile insurance are required.
Internships are to provide meaningful training and work experience for students pursuing academic studies related to OCWD’s mission and goals. Interns must submit proof of full-time enrollment, class schedules and grades each semester/quarter. Interns are not eligible for employee benefits. Interns are “at will” and can be terminated at the discretion of the Department Manager with or without cause and with or without prior notice. This is not a seasonal internship. Interns work year-round.
#1 - Interns must be currently enrolled as a full-time student in a program related to this field.
#2 - Interns must have at least one year remaining in school.
You will not be considered if you do not meet the criteria for both #1 & #2 above.
Please attach or include the following documents to your application:
- Resume (1-3 pages)
- Cover Letter with your expected graduation date, your hours available to work (Mon-Fri, 20-25 hours per week), and an explanation of how your schooling relates to this internship.
- Class Schedule/Unofficial Transcript showing your current enrollment as a full-time student . The document must list your name and school name, current GPA, units, and your current or upcoming class schedule.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT
The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.
Physical: Positions in this class typically require reaching, lifting, fingering, grasping, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motion. Exerting up to 40 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Incumbents may be subjected to moving mechanical parts, fumes, odors, chemicals, extreme temperatures, workspace restrictions and intense noise.
Vision: See in the normal visual range with or without correction; vision sufficient to read computer screens and printed documents; and to operate assigned equipment.
Hearing: Hear in the normal audio range with or without correction.
Supplemental Information
Hourly Rate: Undergraduate: $17 per hour & Graduate: $20 per hour
You must submit an OCWD online employment application to be considered. Please visit www.ocwd.com to complete an application. Candidates given an offer of employment will be required to pass a medical examination and background check. Applications will be accepted until a sufficient number apply. EEO.
Agency
Orange County Water District
Address
18700 Ward Street
Fountain Valley, California, 92708
Phone
714-378-3200
Website