What are the responsibilities and job description for the Temporary Student Intern - Water Quality (Inorganic Chemistry) position at Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD)?
General Description
Applications will be accepted until Friday, April 17, 11:59 p.m., or until 100 applications have been received, whichever comes first.
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
Under close supervision, the successful candidate will work directly with professional and technical staff performing a variety of analytical tasks and support work. The Temporary Student Intern will perform meaningful, productive, and challenging work by making significant contributions to routine laboratory work, special projects, research, or other primary District functions. Temporary Student Interns will receive hands on training emphasizing teamwork, independence, and development of technical skills within a quality framework.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
Student Intern(s) must be actively enrolled as a student in an institution of higher learning at either the undergraduate or graduate level. Students Intern is temporary job classification requiring enrollment in a minimum of 12 units of school study.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
Education and Experience:
Education
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
At the time of appointment, active enrollment as a student in an institution of higher learning, at either the undergraduate or graduate level, is required.
Experience
Completion of chemistry, biology, environmental science college level courses and labs required.
Knowledge Of
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Regularly required to sit, walk, bend, stoop, and stand. Occasionally required to lift up to 50 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 and laboratory equipment. 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. 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, requires clear speech and hearing.
Employees primarily work in a laboratory and office setting but may occasionally need to go out in the field. When working in the field, must possess the strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light physical work; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; ability to reach, twist, turn, kneel, bend, stoop, squat, crouch, grasp, and make repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties; and vision to locate utilities and read printed materials. 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.
MPORTANT APPLICATION INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS
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:
Spark Hire Assessment: As part of our interview process, candidates will participate in a one-way video interview conducted through Spark Hire. This interview allows candidates to showcase their ability to communicate clearly and confidently in a recorded format. During the interview, candidates will respond to a series of pre-recorded questions, demonstrating their verbal communication skills, professionalism, and ability to articulate their qualifications efficiently.
Oral Interview Examination: will assess candidates’ experiences, qualifications, and abilities that are crucial for success in this role. During this examination, candidates will have the opportunity to discuss their background, including education, training, and relevant professional experiences. This in-person interview will allow evaluators to assess the candidate’s interpersonal communication skills and evaluate their overall qualification for the position.
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.
Employees work in the field and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road/traffic hazards, vibration, dust, air contaminants, or other materials in the field.
Prorated Holiday Pay
No Other Benefits
01
Please indicate your college level for Summer 2026.
When do you anticipate to graduate?
03
Please Indicate Your Major Area Of Study
If other, please list your major area of study.
05
Please list any relevant STEM, laboratory, or environmental classes you have completed.
06
Please describe your experience with data entry, including the types of datasets you have worked with. Additionally, list any software programs you are proficient in.
07
The term of the internship is limited to 1,000 hours per fiscal year, and 20 hours per week (July 1 – June 30). Are you able to commit to a year-long program?
Are you able to work at least 20 hours a week during the summer months and at least commit to 10 hours a week during the school year?
Applications will be accepted until Friday, April 17, 11:59 p.m., or until 100 applications have been received, whichever comes first.
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
Under close supervision, the successful candidate will work directly with professional and technical staff performing a variety of analytical tasks and support work. The Temporary Student Intern will perform meaningful, productive, and challenging work by making significant contributions to routine laboratory work, special projects, research, or other primary District functions. Temporary Student Interns will receive hands on training emphasizing teamwork, independence, and development of technical skills within a quality framework.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
Student Intern(s) must be actively enrolled as a student in an institution of higher learning at either the undergraduate or graduate level. Students Intern is temporary job classification requiring enrollment in a minimum of 12 units of school study.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
- Under close supervision, analyze various water, wastewater and/or biosolids samples for general wet chemistry testing (color, turbidity, solids, nutrients, etc.), as well as other parameters as needed.
- Accurately enter data results into the Laboratory's Technical Information Management System (TIMS).
- Assist with chemical reagent and standard preparation, as needed.
- Learn and follow all laboratory safety protocols.
- Learn and follow general laboratory and analysis-specific Quality Assurance/Quality Control protocols.
- Compile and organize data.
- Prepare documents, memos and other correspondence necessary for project completion.
- Comply with District safety work-related practices and attend relevant safety training.
- Attend district-wide meetings as required.
- Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations to ensure qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.
Education and Experience:
Education
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
At the time of appointment, active enrollment as a student in an institution of higher learning, at either the undergraduate or graduate level, is required.
Experience
Completion of chemistry, biology, environmental science college level courses and labs required.
Knowledge Of
- Knowledge of laboratory techniques, computer software/hardware systems, research methods, and data collection techniques including data analysis methods, English usage, grammar, punctuation, report writing techniques.
- Intermediate to advanced level skills in Microsoft Office Suite required.
- Under close supervision in the office and laboratory; read and interpret complex technically written materials.
- Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; use tact, discretion, patience and understanding in dealing with all levels of employees, customers, external partners and the public.
- Add, subtract, multiply, divide, and calculate percentages.
- Use MS Office Suite (Word, Excel). Keyboarding abilities sufficient to perform the job.
- 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.
- 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.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Regularly required to sit, walk, bend, stoop, and stand. Occasionally required to lift up to 50 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 and laboratory equipment. 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. 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, requires clear speech and hearing.
Employees primarily work in a laboratory and office setting but may occasionally need to go out in the field. When working in the field, must possess the strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light physical work; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; ability to reach, twist, turn, kneel, bend, stoop, squat, crouch, grasp, and make repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties; and vision to locate utilities and read printed materials. 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.
MPORTANT APPLICATION INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS
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:
Spark Hire Assessment: As part of our interview process, candidates will participate in a one-way video interview conducted through Spark Hire. This interview allows candidates to showcase their ability to communicate clearly and confidently in a recorded format. During the interview, candidates will respond to a series of pre-recorded questions, demonstrating their verbal communication skills, professionalism, and ability to articulate their qualifications efficiently.
Oral Interview Examination: will assess candidates’ experiences, qualifications, and abilities that are crucial for success in this role. During this examination, candidates will have the opportunity to discuss their background, including education, training, and relevant professional experiences. This in-person interview will allow evaluators to assess the candidate’s interpersonal communication skills and evaluate their overall qualification for the position.
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.
Employees work in the field and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road/traffic hazards, vibration, dust, air contaminants, or other materials in the field.
Prorated Holiday Pay
No Other Benefits
01
Please indicate your college level for Summer 2026.
- Freshman
- Sophomore
- Junior
- Senior
- Post-Graduate (Master's Program)
When do you anticipate to graduate?
03
Please Indicate Your Major Area Of Study
- Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Biology
- Environmental Sciences
- Other
If other, please list your major area of study.
05
Please list any relevant STEM, laboratory, or environmental classes you have completed.
06
Please describe your experience with data entry, including the types of datasets you have worked with. Additionally, list any software programs you are proficient in.
07
The term of the internship is limited to 1,000 hours per fiscal year, and 20 hours per week (July 1 – June 30). Are you able to commit to a year-long program?
- Yes
- No
Are you able to work at least 20 hours a week during the summer months and at least commit to 10 hours a week during the school year?
- Yes
- No
- Required Question