Engineering Intern - Water Utility

The Water Utility is looking for qualified applicants for their Engineering Intern vacancy. This is entry-level professional engineering work for Madison Water Utility. The Engineering Internship is developed to advance agency goals and to foster professional development within the engineering career track, providing support and direction in an internship framework. This is a full-time, 8-month internship (co-op style placement) designed to provide meaningful experience and continuity. The internship will include exposure to managerial and policy setting operations and activities, and an introduction to organizational structure, and operations of the Water Utility. 

This is an engineering design and construction position with work performed in the office and/or the field in connection with the design and construction of public works projects for Madison Water Utility. Assignments are received from Water Utility engineers who mentor the intern, define the scope of the work, guide the progress of the work, review the work in progress and upon completion, certify the results. The work is characterized by the application of theoretical engineering knowledge and expertise and the attainment of procedural knowledge through on-the-job training and experience. This position will work closely with colleagues and Utility technicians to learn processes and procedures necessary to develop a foundation from which to build expertise in public works design and construction.

HOURS:            7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday
DURATION:      Early January through Late August 2026 (8 months)

WHAT WE DO
Madison Water Utility delivers safe, high-quality water to more than 250,000 people across the Madison area. Our water comes from a deep aquifer beneath Madison and is pumped to the surface by wells across the city. We are entrusted by the people of Madison to supply high quality water for consumption and fire protection, at a reasonable cost, while conserving and protecting our water resources. Madison Water Utility’s water distribution system operates with:

• 22 groundwater wells that pump approximately 9 billion gallons per year
• 920 miles of water main
• 43 million gallons of water storage capacity
• 10 district pressure zones
• 71,160 customers served

THE WATER UTILITY ENGINEERING SECTION
The Engineering Section of Madison Water Utility provides planning, design, management and preservation of our system assets and water resources. Our team manages the design and construction of infrastructure improvements each year consisting of water main replacements, rehabilitation, system expansions, hydraulic improvements and distribution/storage facility projects. We collect and manage data pertaining to our infrastructure to map, monitor and continuously improve our system while objectively prioritizing capital improvements. We are also focused on community outreach and education. From facility tours, school demonstrations, water wagon events, open data provisions to a collaborative community advisory process for major projects, we are committed to showing our community how we can all help protect one of our most critical resources.
 
UW MADISON COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING PARTNERSHIPS
Madison Water Utility conducts research with the UW Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering on water quality, distribution system operation, pumping efficiency, and system modeling through an ongoing graduate student sponsorship program.

Applications will be accepted until the closing date, however the selection process may begin prior to the closing date. 

Black, Indigenous, people of color, women, trans, nonbinary, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. We value the unique blend of lived experiences and diverse perspectives that comes from non-traditional education pathways and the variety of transferrable skills each candidate brings to the table. We value diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Even if every item on the job posting doesn’t match your experience perfectly, we encourage you to apply and share how your skills and experience can best serve our community.

• Prepare engineering drawings and specifications for water utility projects as assigned by utility engineers.
• Using computer aided design software, develop designs for water pipeline projects, pump stations, reservoirs, pressure reducing stations, and other projects.
• Work closely with Utility engineers and technicians to learn and develop design skills and standards.
• Coordinate design activities with other Engineering Units, City agencies, and other entities as necessary.
• Prepare and evaluate project construction cost estimates.
• Develop project planning budgets, evaluate project feasibility, and complete life cycle cost analysis of proposed projects and improvements.
• Conduct basic engineering research as assigned and directed.
• Prepare spreadsheets, narrative and statistical reports, maps, and other materials as necessary. Gather and evaluate GPS field data as needed.
• Assist Utility Mapping group as needed to update and maintain utility records and update the Utility's GIS records as assigned.
• Assist with the inspection of public works construction as assigned. Inspect construction activities at all phases of water distribution system construction sites to ensure compliance with contract specifications, rules, regulations and standards.
• Study and interpret plan and profile drawings.
• Check materials delivered to the job site for compliance with the specifications. Record measurements to determine installed quantities.
• Prepare as-constructed record drawings. Maintain detailed construction records and notes. Review contract payment information.
• Assist with flushing operations. Turn valves as needed.
• Monitor pressure tests.
• Respond to questions from the public.
• Work with the Utility's distribution system hydraulic model.
• Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system.
• Prepare reports as assigned.
• Perform other related work as required and assigned.

 

• Currently enrolled and in good standing in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program in civil, environmental, or construction engineering, or a related engineering program.

• Currently enrolled and in good standing in an Associate degree civil engineering technology program. AND
• Completion of one (1) year of their Associate degree program by the start of the internship.

OR

• Graduates in a related field since May 2024 will also be considered.

The City of Madison strives to provide exceptional customer service to all its residents and visitors.  Therefore, successful candidates will have demonstrated ability to work effectively with multicultural communities.

Possession of a valid driver's license. 

Employee will be required to have safety (steel toe) boots; a reimbursement is available.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to sit at a desk and operate a computer workstation for extended periods of time. Ability to access construction sites. Ability to lift/carry objects weighing 30 pounds on a regular basis. Ability to walk over uneven surfaces. Ability to work outside under all weather conditions.

*Payroll title for this position is Management Intern 2

Salary : $23