Internship - Policy Research

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 $15.00 per hour. They do not receive benefits or paid days off.

Required Documents

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

Eligibility Requirements

• Enrollment in a degree-seeking program in an accredited college or university.
• Permanent residency in Cook County (but students may attend school outside the county limit.)
• Applicants must be a citizen or national of the U.S., an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence, or an individual otherwise legally authorized to work in the U.S.

Candidates are required to submit the Online Internship Application, submit a cover letter and referral letter through MWRD’s Online Employment Center.

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

Position Title:

Policy Research Intern

Department:

Board of Commissioners

Location:

Main Office Building

100 East Erie Street

Chicago, IL 60611

Description:

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago is in search of a current college student seeking an internship opportunity in the Board of Commissioner's offices. The prospective intern will research energy and environmental topics; prepare memos, summaries, as well as annotated bibliographies. The intern will also spend time researching outside organizations, companies, and individuals within the Great Lakes region. During the internship, students will work hand-in-hand with the Commissioner’s office staff and several departments. They will have an opportunity to support various strategic objectives by identifying and researching new topics for future policy initiatives. They will support preparation for policy meetings and events through the production of briefings and meeting notes and other duties as assigned. Interns will learn more about current policy issues in the wastewater and stormwater industry.

Rate of Pay:

This is a paid internship at $15.00/hr.

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements:

Applicants must have a current residence in Cook County, IL; be a citizen or national of the U.S., an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence, or an individual otherwise legally authorized to work in the U.S.; and must obtain a referral letter from current school’s, class instructor or Internship Coordinator.

Educational Requirements:

Applicants must be a current graduate or undergraduate student seeking a degree in political science, public policy, environmental studies, or other related field of study. Have excellent analytical, written, public speaking, and communication skills. Able to collect and analyze data and to make recommendations to the Commissioner's office. 

Experience writing detailed technical briefs, summaries, data-driven reports, and counter-narratives preferred not required. Superior organizational, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. Able to work both independently and in a team environment. Experienced in basic research methodology.