The City of Saginaw is seeking motivated and dedicated individuals to join our team as Water/Wastewater Interns. This internship provides a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the essential field of water and wastewater operations, maintenance, laboratory, or skilled trades, contributing to the protection of public health and the environment.
This is a 28-hour temporary (2 Year) internship position in the Water Treatment, Wastewater Treatment and Maintenance and Service Divisions of the Departments of Water and Wastewater Treatment Services and Public Services. Duties will include operational, general maintenance and mechanical repair tasks as assigned.
There are six internship positions in the associated Departments. The position will spend time working in each area split evenly between the Water and Wastewater Funds. This position reports directly to an assigned foreman of each Division while in service there. The intention is to hold 2 interns in each location and rotate on even time split basis.
As a Water/Wastewater Intern, you will assist our experienced professionals with a variety of tasks, including but not limited to:
- Field Work:
- Assisting with water and wastewater sampling and testing.
- Observing and documenting maintenance and repair activities at treatment plants and distribution/collection systems.
- Learning to read and interpret water/wastewater system maps and blueprints.
- Participating in site inspections and data collection and analysis.
- Laboratory Work:
- Assisting with laboratory analysis of water and wastewater samples.
- Learning proper laboratory procedures and safety protocols.
- Maintaining laboratory equipment and supplies.
- Recording and organizing laboratory data.
- Maintenance:
- Assisting with removing and installing mechanical equipment. Like pumps, drives, mixers and related parts.
- Assisting with mechanics on rebuilding equipment that is critical in plant processes.
- Learn and assist with the electrical parts of water and wastewater.
- Learning and Development:
- Participating in training sessions and workshops.
- Shadowing experienced professionals to learn about different aspects of water/wastewater management.
- Learn about the regulations surrounding water and wastewater.
- Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from high school, vocational/technical program, college or university.
- Interest in skilled trades, environmental science, engineering, or related fields.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills. b
- Ability to follow instructions and safety protocols.
- Valid driver's license (preferred, may be required for certain tasks).
- Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
- Basic computer skills.
- Must use care and proper procedures in handling hazardous materials and electrical equipment.
- Work may require frequent lifting of 50 lbs, bending, stooping, climbing and work in confined spaces.
- Must have ability to use a respirator.
- Work in noisy environments with hearing protection under certain conditions.
- Work in a facility with several dangerous chemicals including Chlorine, Sulfur Dioxide, Bleach, Ferric Chloride, Lime, Fluoride, Carbon, Cationic Polymer, and Diesel fuel along with smaller amounts of various laboratory chemicals.
- Work in uncomfortable conditions due to seasonal weather changes affecting air ventilation system during diesel operations.
