Policy Intern

MWRD's Internship Program offers paid internship positions. While the main focus is on wastewater management, there are opportunities to gain knowledge and practical experience in a wide range of functions in each department.

Paid Interns

Paid interns are limited to 119 working days per calendar year and receive $18.00 per hour.

Required Documents:

• Letter of recommendation from a class instructor, professor, or Internship Coordinator from current school or university.
• Cover letter stating interest in position.
• Resume.

Eligibility Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a degree-seeking program in an accredited college or university and will be enrolled in the 2026/2027 school year.
• Permanent residency within the territorial boundaries of the MWRD (students may attend school outside the territorial boundaries).
• You must be a citizen or national of the United States, or an individual who is otherwise legally authorized to work in the United States.

Candidates are required to submit the Online Internship Application, cover letter, resume and letter of recommendation through MWRD's Online Employment Center.

Questions regarding the internship program may be directed to MWRDInternships@mwrd.org.

Position Title:

Community Outreach and Public Relations Intern

Department:

Board of Commissioners

Location:

Main Office Building

100 E. Erie St.

Chicago, IL. 60611

Description:

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) is seeking a motivated student with a strong interest in public service, community outreach, media relations, press materials, newsletters, and external communications for an internship in the Office of the Board of Commissioners. The Community Outreach and Public Relations Intern will support the office's community engagement, public relations, and communications initiatives. This position provides hands-on experience in research, policy analysis, and strategic engagement on major public issues such as water infrastructure, environmental sustainability, climate justice, and public health.

This internship is ideal for students passionate about public service, local government, LGBTQ communities, environmental issues, civic engagement, environmental equity, and inclusive governance. Candidates should be currently enrolled in a program in public policy, political science, law, or a related field. Strong research, writing, and analytical abilities are essential, along with a basic understanding of government operations and policy development. Effective communication, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to social justice and community advocacy are highly valued. The intern should be a strong writer, clear communicator, and eager to connect with communities and help share the work of local government.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting community outreach efforts, including events, stakeholder engagement, and follow-up communications.
• Assisting in drafting press releases, public statements, newsletters, talking points, and other written materials.
• Maintaining outreach lists, media lists, community partner directories, and event contact information.
• Researching community organizations, elected officials, media outlets, and potential partners.
• Supporting planning and preparation for public events, meetings, and communityappearances.
• Tracking press opportunities, media mentions, and communications deliverables.
• Preparing briefing materials for events, meetings, and public engagements.
• Assisting with coordination between the office, community partners, media contacts, and other external stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements:

• Current college student with demonstrated interest or experience in community outreach, public relations, communications, journalism, political science, public policy, or a related field.
• Strong writing and editing skills, especially for press releases, statements, newsletters, and public-facingmaterials.
• Strong verbal communication skills and comfort interacting with community members, partners, and stakeholders.
• Excellent organization skills and ability to manage lists, deadlines, and follow-up tasks.
• Ability to research, summarize information, and prepare clear written materials.
• Strong attention to detail and sound judgment when working on public communications
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating with office staff.

Educational Requirements:

Applicants must be a current graduate or undergraduate student seeking a degree in communications, marketing, liberal arts, sociology, political science, history, public policy, political science, law, or a related field.