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:

Construction Technician Intern

Department:

Engineering

Location:

Calumet Water Reclamation Plant 

400 E. 130th St. 

Chicago, IL. 60628

Description:

The Construction Technician Intern will assist engineers and engineering technicians in administering, coordinating and performing quality assurance on the Engineering Department's construction projects. Duties shall include monitoring, inspecting, and testing contractors' work, documenting contractors' progress and writing reports. 

The intern will gain experience working on construction projects involving wastewater collection facilities, wastewater treatment facilities, or stormwater management infrastructure.  The intern will learn or develop skills in construction site safety, reading and interpreting design specifications and drawings, using contract documents, shop drawings and product data to inspect contractors' work, testing construction materials, using surveying equipment, reviewing construction project schedules, using project management software, and preparing daily work reports and weekly status reports. The intern will gain knowledge that prepares him/her to take the MWRDGC's Engineering Technician III and IV examinations. 

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements:

§  Must possess a valid driver's license.

§  Excellent oral and written communication skills. 

§  Attention to detail and good organizational skills. 

Educational Requirements:

Applicants must be a current undergraduate student seeking an associate or bachelor's degree in science. Preferred majors: construction management or construction technology.