College Internship - Recycling, Reuse, and Composting Intern

Position Description

Make a difference for Seattle’s environment while gaining hands-on experience in recycling, reuse, and composting. Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) Waste Prevention & Diversion Group is seeking one (1) graduate-level intern to support work within the Solid Waste Division. The successful intern will gain hands-on experience with Seattle’s Commercial Recycling, Reuse, and Composting programs. In this role, you will assist with outreach and education efforts that promote recycling, reuse, and composting to Seattle businesses. Under the guidance of the program manager, you will gain exposure to real-world sustainability practices while supporting meaningful community engagement.

Learning objectives include but are not limited to:

• Gain skills and experience working in a professional workplace environment.
• Gain skills providing customer service directly to the residents and businesses of Seattle.
• Gain experience conducting audits of program elements.
• Develop ability to monitor service issues; develop work plans, and track program performance.
• Develop skills in customer service and communications strategies by working directly with customers, businesses, and community groups.
  
  

There is currently one (1) graduate internship opportunities available. We require a 1-year commitment for this internship.

The duration of this internship may last up to 24 months or graduation, whichever comes first.

About Seattle Public Utilities: Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a community-centered utility that delivers vital services to Seattle residents and businesses including drinking water, drainage and wastewater, and garbage/recycling/compost. SPU also provides drinking water for 1.5 million customers in the region. SPU’s work includes system maintenance and improvements and keeping Seattle clean. Over 1,400 SPU employees work with our community to provide affordable and equitable stewardship of our water and waste resources for future generations.

For more information about Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), checkout the:

• SPU Website
• Strategic Business Plan
  
  

SPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all. We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring and promotional opportunities.

Job Responsibilities

Under direct supervision, the intern will learn through practical training about various aspects of community outreach in support of SPU's Recycling, Reuse, Composting, & Outreach Programs.

Duties may include, but not limited to:

• Perform periodic site visits to provide education, outreach, and field inspections at Seattle businesses.
• Respond to customers' and contractors' inquiries
• Deliver materials to businesses, events, and contractors
• Organize and manage inventory of posters, stickers, and supplies
• Create custom flyers, posters, and various outreach materials for commercial customers
• Create content for online tools and newsletters about recycling, reuse, composting, and waste disposal
• Update program database and/or activity files.
  
  

Qualifications

Education: Applicants must be currently enrolled in graduate-level coursework, pursuing a degree related to Environmental, Communications, Public Administration, Planning, Community Engagement or a closely related field.

Applicants must be enrolled at least part-time or full-time and maintain a 3.0 GPA for the duration of the internship.

Exception: Students do not need to be enrolled over the summer months but will need to provide at the end of Spring Quarter/Semester proof of continuing and pre-registration for the Fall session as applicable.

Licensing and Other Requirements:

• A Washington State Driver's license is required for this internship in order to operate a City vehicle to outreach events and site visits.
  
  

Selected candidate will be required to provide an Abstract of Driving Record - Full from the DOL on or before date of hire.

Example:

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Enjoy supporting others and developing a friendly, helpful approach.
• Experience making presentations or explaining information to groups in a clear and engaging way.
• Be interested in developing handouts, slides, or resources that help others learn.
• Familiarity with managing or updating website content.
• Enjoy finding thoughtful solutions and exercising good judgment.
  
  

Additional Information

Hours:

• Work hours are between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
• Optional, but may be asked to work occasional weekend work.
• During school sessions, work hours will be scheduled to complement class schedules (15 – 20 hours per week).
• These internships may permit up to 40 hours per week during breaks and summer months.
  
  

Salary information:

• Graduate - $26.71 - $26.71 per hour
  
  

Recruiter Information:

• For more information regarding this recruitment, please contact: Vanessa Fowler at Vanessa.Fowler@seattle.gov.
  
  

How to Apply:

• Attach your college/university's unofficial transcript to your online application
• Resume clearly identifying how you meet the qualifications of the internship
• Cover letter indicating your interest in the internship
  
  

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

This internship allows for the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule. Individual schedules will be agreed upon by the employee and their supervisor.

Who may apply: The City of Seattle encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience. This position is open to all qualified candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.