Engineering Student Intern

Employer: Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority (SAWPA)
Salary: $16.50 Hourly
Location: 11615 Sterling Avenue, Riverside
Job Type: Student Internship
Department: Engineering and Operations
Opening Date: 07/02/2025
Closing Date: 7/27/2025 at 11:59 PM Pacific Time (US & Canada); Tijuana

Description

A year can define your future – Join the Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority (SAWPA) as a student intern for a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience and enhance your resume. You’ll achieve hands-on experience while working alongside industry leaders, collaborating with government agencies, regional and local authorities, public and private entities, and contributing to impactful projects that leave a lasting imprint on the environment and the communities within the Santa Ana River Watershed. Be a part of an amazing team that keeps the Santa Ana River Watershed beneficial, sustainable and secure!

Position Details

Start Date: Anticipated to begin in mid-September
Duration: This is a 12-month internship (not seasonal or short-term)
Hours: Approximately 15 to 25 hours per week, Monday through Friday
Work Schedule: Flexible within business hours, based on your availability
Remote Work: Partial remote work may be allowed with prior approval from the Department Manager
Hourly Limit: Interns may work up to 960 hours per fiscal year (July 1 – June 30)
Benefits: This is a temporary position and does not include benefits, except for sick leave

Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for this internship, you must meet all of the following criteria:

You must be currently enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate program related to this field.
You must have at least one year of academic coursework remaining before graduation.

Note: Individuals who are active members of the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS) are not eligible for internship positions with SAWPA.

Cover Letter Required:
Please include a cover letter with your application. In your letter, be sure to:

Indicate the days and hours you are available to work (Monday–Friday)
Explain how your current academic program and coursework relate to this internship opportunity.

Applications must be submitted electronically through governmentjobs.com/careers/sawpa by July 27, 2025.

This position is open until filled. The deadline for the first review of applications is 11:59 PM on Sunday, July 27, 2025. Applicants that submit applications after the first review deadline are not guaranteed to be considered for this recruitment. This recruitment may close at any time without notice after the first review deadline.

Examples of Duties

These examples are illustrative of the various types of work which may be performed based on the internship candidate is applying for. Omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to this classification.

Assists with the preparation and review of technical reports, memorandums, and environmental documents.
Assess utility plans, examine pipeline inspection video, manage data using spreadsheet tools and create presentations.
Compiles data or materials, create spreadsheets, and prepare reports.
Performs research, contributes to projects, and administrative assignments.
Supports staff in the development of Brine Line planning studies and condition assessments.
Perform related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Typical Qualifications

Any combination equivalent to experience and training that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities would be qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skills, and abilities would be:

Experience: While no prior work experience is required, knowledge of the methods and techniques of research, report preparation and administration are desired.
Training/Education: Graduation from high school or G.E.D. equivalent. Current enrollment in undergraduate or graduate studies in an accredited college or university with major course work in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or related fields.
License or Certificate: A valid California driver’s license and the ability to maintain insurability under the Agency’s vehicle insurance program is required to drive any vehicle for SAWPA-related business.

Supplemental Information

Knowledge of:

Administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, designing forms and workplace terminology.
Basic organizational, technical and computer skills, strong written communication, and research skills.

Skills and Abilities: