Student Intern - Utilities - Fall 2026

GENERAL POSITION SUMMARY:

Student Intern, performs work involving the installation, maintenance, renovation, facilities, and construction management assistance for Starkville Utilities Department before, during, and/or after utility related improvements or repairs have been performed. Work involves performing a variety of landscape, facilities, construction, maintenance, or other projects including within the assigned Utilities' function. Work involves planning, scheduling, and ordering materials and the execution of proposed work to accomplish assigned projects.  It is imperative for this position to communicate internally with other divisions to coordinate projects, adjust priorities, and relay status.  It is also very important to communicate as necessary with the public/customers when work is being performed in the vicinity of private property.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Complete assigned projects for Starkville Utilities before, during, or after Utility related construction or repairs are performed by City personnel or contractors.
•  Inspect the construction site, assess the condition and solutions.
• Resolve problems that may arise within assigned projects.
• Understand departmental policies related to landscaping improvements and apply the policies appropriately and consistently in all situations. 
• Communicate the conditions during all phases of the work via notes, photos, and/or reports.
• Prioritize and schedule repair work as needed and as directed.
• Consults with supervisor on scheduling, material purchases, issues encountered, and final closeout.  (Initiates requisitions to obtain supplies and other services to complete work.)
• Perform projects within area assigned as directed. 
• Manage time and priorities to complete work independently and without direct supervision. 
• Exhibit strong attention to detail; proper technique(s) for area assigned, that yield an accurate and/or high quality finished product.
• Operate and is responsible for maintenance of various equipment (e.g., landscape, facilities, construction, etc.) to ensure operable and functional.
• Monitor progress; make necessary changes; complete work orders, and reports daily on work performed.
• Assist in troubleshooting, resolving, and communicating related areas' issues  with the customer.
• Provide quality customer service by excellent communication, a high quality work product, and a positive reflection of Starkville Utilities. 
• Establish effective working relationships with City employees, consultants, and the general public.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of computers and applicable software such as work orders, email and other technology related tools.
• Knowledge of business, English language, spelling, and arithmetic.
• Knowledge of records management policies, procedures, and processes.
• Possess and apply strategic thinking skills, including having the ability to clearly define objectives, generate an action plan, define necessary resources, effectively anticipate change, brainstorm, troubleshoot and generate solutions. 
• Possess and apply exceptional communication skills, including active listening skills, conflict resolution, seeking clarification as needed, building relationships and where possible creating “win-win” outcomes using positive reinforcement and diplomacy.
• Capable of being coached, open to feedback, and engaged in continuous improvement as it relates to knowledge, skills and abilities associated with this position and as an employee of the department.
• Ability to operate computer and other standard office equipment while performing essential functions.
• Ability to prioritize and organize work including working on multiple tasks at one time without direct supervision.
• Ability to manage time and allocate the appropriate amount for each specific task.
• Prioritize and schedule workload to ensure completion when faced with deadlines or emergencies.
• Keep accurate records; prepare documents and spreadsheets using Word and Excel.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Coursework in related field of area, GPA of 2.75 or higher. 
• Relevant experience operating department equipment utilized for maintenance, repair or site related construction.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS & OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be available during the applicable school term(s).
• Available to work up to 20 hours per week. There is flexibility in the days/times worked; however, the applicant must be able to maintain a regular schedule consistently.
• Must possess a valid Driver’s License.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

May involve:  All types of weather and temperature conditions; work and/or walking for long periods of time on various terrain; indoors or outdoors; in teams or solo; varying hours, weekends, and holidays; routine and variable tasks at variable pace and pressure; etc.. 

Primary functions  maybe physical, operating equipment, FREQUENT bending, stooping, squatting, climbing, standing, sitting, reaching at and above shoulder height, kneeling, balancing above ground, pushing and pulling, crawling, twisting at waist, upward and downward and side-to-side flexion of neck, lifting objects weighing up to 75 lbs., etc.