Mechanical Engineering 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:

Mechanical Engineering Intern

Department:

Maintenance and Operations

Location:

Calumet Water Reclamation Plant

400 West 130th Street 

Chicago, IL. 60628

Description:

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District is seeking a Mechanical Engineering Intern for the Maintenance and Operations Department. The intern will assist with scheduling and monitoring the construction phases of service contracts, including projects such as the Rehabilitation of Rotating Assemblies and SEPA Station Equipment Replacement.

Additional responsibilities will include reviewing preventive maintenance procedures, verifying MMS data, and organizing reference documentation to support the maintenance of equipment essential to MWRD operations. Components involved may include, but are not limited to, valves, pump components, sewage screens, conveyors, and sluice gates.

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements:

Potential candidates should demonstrate mechanical aptitude within an engineering field of study and have at least one year of engineering or related technical coursework. The intern should possess a foundational understanding of engineering and technical sciences. Candidates must also have their own transportation, as some workdays may begin or end at remote field locations.

Educational Requirements:

Applicants must be a current graduate or undergraduate student seeking a degree in any field of engineering. At least one year of engineering or sub-engineering classwork.