What are the responsibilities and job description for the Temporary Student Intern - Engineering position at Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD)?
General Description
Irvine Ranch Water District is currently accepting applications for three (3) Temporary Student Interns in the Engineering Department.
Apply now! Applications will be accepted through Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
The District
Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) is a progressive, values-driven agency, with an international reputation for its leading-edge financial management practices, water recycling program, water use efficiency practices, water banking, urban runoff treatment, and energy generation and storage. Established in 1961 as a California Water District under the provisions of the California Water Code, IRWD is an independent special district serving central Orange County. IRWD provides high-quality drinking water, reliable sewage collection and treatment, ground-breaking recycled water programs, and environmentally sound urban runoff treatment to its customers. As an independent, not-for-profit public agency, IRWD is governed by a publicly elected five-member Board of Directors. The Board is responsible for the District's policies and decision-making. Day-to-day operations are supervised by the General Manager. Additional information can be found at the District's website: www.IRWD.com.
IRWD Values
Irvine Ranch Water District believes that its values drive the character, culture, and capacity of our organization. IRWD was built on values, and we weave them into the fabric of everything we do. Values are the ingredients in our recipe for both institutional and individual success. They are a code of conduct to promote positive outcomes for others and ourselves. They are more than words on a wall or a website. We live by them every day. We pledge to keep them relevant in an ever-changing world.
IRWD's employees enjoy working in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where they form strong bonds with fellow employees. To ensure effective communication and promote a collaborative team environment, employees report to work each day in the office or in the field, depending on their positions.
The Position
Successful candidates will, under general supervision, perform a variety of tasks working directly with professional and technical staff in various assigned areas including some field work. Temporary Student Interns will perform productive and challenging work by making essential contributions to projects, research or other District functions. Interns will receive hands-on training emphasizing teamwork, communication, independence, and development of technical skills.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Student Intern is a temporary job classification requiring enrollment as a full-time undergraduate engineering student.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.
Education
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Regularly required to sit, walk, bend, stoop, and stand. Occasionally required to lift up to 25 lbs. Must be able to sit for extended periods of time while performing tasks at a desk or workstation. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard, typewriter keyboard, or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. This may involve repetitive hand movements for extended periods. Ability to reach for documents, supplies, or equipment at varying heights (within a standard office environment) and grasp them, including the use of filing cabinets or shelves. This is primarily a sedentary office classification, although standing and walking between work areas may be required. Occasional standing is required, such as when presenting. Some bending or stooping may be necessary to retrieve files or materials from lower shelves or desks. Good vision is necessary for reading documents, working with computer screens, and performing tasks that require fine detail. Ability to hear in a standard office environment for communication, phone calls, and meetings. Frequent verbal communication with team members, clients, and other stakeholders, including both in-person and virtual meetings, requiring clear speech and hearing. Occasional travel may be required to other worksites or conferences for meetings, training, or other work-related activities. The job may require sustained concentration, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Ability to walk long distances over uneven terrain. The employee should be able to manage work-related stress in a fast-paced environment. These physical demands may vary depending on the specific duties and expectations of the position.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Noise level is generally equivalent to a typical office environment. The office is maintained at a comfortable room temperature. The office is equipped with air conditioning and ventilation systems designed to maintain comfortable indoor air quality. The work area is equipped with adequate artificial lighting, supplemented by natural daylight from windows where available. The employee will work primarily at a desk, using a computer and other office equipment. The office complies with standard safety regulations, including the use of fire exits, first aid kits, and emergency procedures. Employees are expected to adhere to safety guidelines. The office environment is free from significant environmental hazards such as chemicals, heavy machinery, or extreme weather conditions.
IMPORTANT APPLICATION INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTION
All applicants are required to complete and submit a District application form online and answer the supplemental questionnaire. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application. Resumes or faxed copies will not be accepted in lieu of the District online application. To apply, click on the "Apply" link located at the top of this page.
New users must create an account first. Click on this link for instructions on how to set up your account and apply for the first time: Online Employment Application Guide
Qualifications
Applications will be reviewed by the Human Resources Department and the subject matter expert. Those applicants possessing the most pertinent qualifications will be invited to continue in the selection process, which will include:
Oral Interview Examination (tentatively scheduled for April 29, 2026): will evaluate the candidates' experience, training, education, and abilities in relation to those factors which are essential for successful performance on the job.
Communication regarding your application and/or status will be sent to the email address listed on your application. Please check your email regularly throughout the recruitment process as you will not receive communications by any other method.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Irvine Ranch Water District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you consider yourself a person with a disability, you may contact the Human Resources Department for a reasonable accommodation.
Prorated Holiday Pay
No Other Benefits
01
Please select your undergraduate level for Fall 2026.
In general, how many years of work experience do you have?
Which of the following best describes your level of proficiency with Microsoft Excel?
Which of the following best describes your level of proficiency with AutoCAD?
Which of the following best describes your level of proficiency with Bluebeam Revu?
Please indicate your engineering major.
If you selected "other" from the above question, please specify; otherwise, type N/A.
08
I understand that this is a year-round, in-office internship.
Are you able to work a minimum of ten (10) hours per week?
If selected, how will you commit to the year-round internship and working the minimum hours per week?
11
This internship requires driving the company vehicle to different field sites and other IRWD locations. What is your comfort level in driving to and from different sites and locations?
Please select the type of vehicles that you have experience driving in. (You may select all that applies)
Possession and retention of a valid California Class "C" driver's license is a requirement of this position. Do you currently possess a valid California Class "C" driver's license and understand this requirement?
Note for out-of-state applicants: Currently possessing the equivalent of a California Class "C" driver's license from another state would temporarily suffice this requirement and must obtain a Class "C" driver's license in the State of California prior to a job offer with the District.
Irvine Ranch Water District is currently accepting applications for three (3) Temporary Student Interns in the Engineering Department.
Apply now! Applications will be accepted through Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
The District
Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) is a progressive, values-driven agency, with an international reputation for its leading-edge financial management practices, water recycling program, water use efficiency practices, water banking, urban runoff treatment, and energy generation and storage. Established in 1961 as a California Water District under the provisions of the California Water Code, IRWD is an independent special district serving central Orange County. IRWD provides high-quality drinking water, reliable sewage collection and treatment, ground-breaking recycled water programs, and environmentally sound urban runoff treatment to its customers. As an independent, not-for-profit public agency, IRWD is governed by a publicly elected five-member Board of Directors. The Board is responsible for the District's policies and decision-making. Day-to-day operations are supervised by the General Manager. Additional information can be found at the District's website: www.IRWD.com.
IRWD Values
Irvine Ranch Water District believes that its values drive the character, culture, and capacity of our organization. IRWD was built on values, and we weave them into the fabric of everything we do. Values are the ingredients in our recipe for both institutional and individual success. They are a code of conduct to promote positive outcomes for others and ourselves. They are more than words on a wall or a website. We live by them every day. We pledge to keep them relevant in an ever-changing world.
IRWD's employees enjoy working in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where they form strong bonds with fellow employees. To ensure effective communication and promote a collaborative team environment, employees report to work each day in the office or in the field, depending on their positions.
The Position
Successful candidates will, under general supervision, perform a variety of tasks working directly with professional and technical staff in various assigned areas including some field work. Temporary Student Interns will perform productive and challenging work by making essential contributions to projects, research or other District functions. Interns will receive hands-on training emphasizing teamwork, communication, independence, and development of technical skills.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Student Intern is a temporary job classification requiring enrollment as a full-time undergraduate engineering student.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.
- Perform a variety of research, data collection, compilation, and analysis.
- Prepare comprehensive technical reports and/or studies.
- Prepare exhibits, spreadsheets, charts, and graphs.
- Prepare documents, memos, and other correspondence.
- Perform field work such as site visits, equipment witness testing, and taking measurements and photos.
- Perform tasks outside of the office, such as recording documents with the County.
- Attend meetings and prepare meeting minutes.
- Comply with District safety work-related practices and attend relevant safety training.
- Perform administrative duties, including filing, copying, scanning, and emailing.
- Work a minimum of 10 hours per week.
Education
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- High School graduate. Actively enrolled as an Engineering student in an institution of higher learning at the undergraduate level is required throughout the duration of the assignment.
- Civil, Environmental, Mechanical or Construction Management Engineering majors preferred.
- Students with an interest in Water and/or Environmental Engineering preferred.
- Knowledge of research methods and data collection techniques, including statistical methods, English usage, grammar, punctuation, report writing techniques, and intermediate-level skills in Microsoft Office Suite is required.
- Experience with AutoCAD is preferred.
- MS Office Suite (Word, Excel).
- Keyboarding abilities sufficient to perform the job.
- Communicate effectively with all levels of office/field employees and management.
- Represent the District in a professional manner when dealing with outside professionals and vendors.
- Explain, demonstrate and clarify to others within well-established policies, procedures, and standards, as well as the ability to follow specific instructions and respond to simple and difficult requests from others.
- Perform basic mathematics, including multiplication, division, and calculating percentages.
- Use good personal judgment and discretion in performing all job functions.
- Remain calm in crisis and emergency situations.
- Use discretion when handling and disseminating sensitive and confidential information.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Regularly required to sit, walk, bend, stoop, and stand. Occasionally required to lift up to 25 lbs. Must be able to sit for extended periods of time while performing tasks at a desk or workstation. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard, typewriter keyboard, or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. This may involve repetitive hand movements for extended periods. Ability to reach for documents, supplies, or equipment at varying heights (within a standard office environment) and grasp them, including the use of filing cabinets or shelves. This is primarily a sedentary office classification, although standing and walking between work areas may be required. Occasional standing is required, such as when presenting. Some bending or stooping may be necessary to retrieve files or materials from lower shelves or desks. Good vision is necessary for reading documents, working with computer screens, and performing tasks that require fine detail. Ability to hear in a standard office environment for communication, phone calls, and meetings. Frequent verbal communication with team members, clients, and other stakeholders, including both in-person and virtual meetings, requiring clear speech and hearing. Occasional travel may be required to other worksites or conferences for meetings, training, or other work-related activities. The job may require sustained concentration, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Ability to walk long distances over uneven terrain. The employee should be able to manage work-related stress in a fast-paced environment. These physical demands may vary depending on the specific duties and expectations of the position.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Noise level is generally equivalent to a typical office environment. The office is maintained at a comfortable room temperature. The office is equipped with air conditioning and ventilation systems designed to maintain comfortable indoor air quality. The work area is equipped with adequate artificial lighting, supplemented by natural daylight from windows where available. The employee will work primarily at a desk, using a computer and other office equipment. The office complies with standard safety regulations, including the use of fire exits, first aid kits, and emergency procedures. Employees are expected to adhere to safety guidelines. The office environment is free from significant environmental hazards such as chemicals, heavy machinery, or extreme weather conditions.
IMPORTANT APPLICATION INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTION
All applicants are required to complete and submit a District application form online and answer the supplemental questionnaire. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application. Resumes or faxed copies will not be accepted in lieu of the District online application. To apply, click on the "Apply" link located at the top of this page.
New users must create an account first. Click on this link for instructions on how to set up your account and apply for the first time: Online Employment Application Guide
Qualifications
Applications will be reviewed by the Human Resources Department and the subject matter expert. Those applicants possessing the most pertinent qualifications will be invited to continue in the selection process, which will include:
Oral Interview Examination (tentatively scheduled for April 29, 2026): will evaluate the candidates' experience, training, education, and abilities in relation to those factors which are essential for successful performance on the job.
Communication regarding your application and/or status will be sent to the email address listed on your application. Please check your email regularly throughout the recruitment process as you will not receive communications by any other method.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Irvine Ranch Water District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you consider yourself a person with a disability, you may contact the Human Resources Department for a reasonable accommodation.
Prorated Holiday Pay
No Other Benefits
01
Please select your undergraduate level for Fall 2026.
- Freshman
- Sophomore
- Junior
- Senior
- Not Applicable - Graduate Student
In general, how many years of work experience do you have?
- Less than one year experience
- 1 to less than 3 years experience
- 3 to less than 5 years experience
- 5 years of experience
Which of the following best describes your level of proficiency with Microsoft Excel?
- None - I do not know how to use it.
- Beginner - I can insert rows, columns, and input numbers.
- Intermediate - I can use formulas, filter data, format cells, and create charts/graphs.
- Advanced - I can utilize pivot tables, create array formulas, and solve algebraic equation.
Which of the following best describes your level of proficiency with AutoCAD?
- None
- Beginner
- Intermediate
- Advanced
Which of the following best describes your level of proficiency with Bluebeam Revu?
- None
- Beginner
- Intermediate
- Advanced
Please indicate your engineering major.
- Civil
- Construction Management
- Electrical
- Environmental
- Mechanical
- Other
If you selected "other" from the above question, please specify; otherwise, type N/A.
08
I understand that this is a year-round, in-office internship.
- Yes, I understand.
Are you able to work a minimum of ten (10) hours per week?
- Yes
- No
If selected, how will you commit to the year-round internship and working the minimum hours per week?
11
This internship requires driving the company vehicle to different field sites and other IRWD locations. What is your comfort level in driving to and from different sites and locations?
- Very comfortable
- Comfortable
- Neutral
- Uncomfortable
- Very uncomfortable
Please select the type of vehicles that you have experience driving in. (You may select all that applies)
- Car
- Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)
- Truck
- Minivan
- Passenger Van
- Not Applicable
Possession and retention of a valid California Class "C" driver's license is a requirement of this position. Do you currently possess a valid California Class "C" driver's license and understand this requirement?
Note for out-of-state applicants: Currently possessing the equivalent of a California Class "C" driver's license from another state would temporarily suffice this requirement and must obtain a Class "C" driver's license in the State of California prior to a job offer with the District.
- Yes
- No
- Required Question