Environmental Science Research 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 2024/2025 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:

Environmental Science Research Intern

Department:

Monitoring and Research Department

Location:

Stickney Water Reclamation Plant

6001 West Pershing Road

Cicero, IL 60804

Description:

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater of Chicago is seeking an intern in the Monitoring and Research Department. The intern will learn general principles of wastewater treatment, especially enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) and side stream EBPR, some of the biological and physical/chemical concepts behind it, and safety measures that go along with all lab and field activities. The prospective intern will collect wastewater samples, measure basic wastewater parameters  (e.g. sludge volume index, dissolved oxygen, and pH), maintain data logs, and perform maintenance of pilot bioreactors. They will specifically work on two EBPR/S2EBPR pilot bioreactors at CWRP and EWRP.

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements:

• Possess good computer skills
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel
• Experience with basic laboratory techniques
• Willing to work with wastewater and sludge
• Have an interest in research

Educational Requirements:

• Applicants must be currently enrolled in a degree seeking program with a preference for Environmental Engineering students.
• Students studying Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Environmental Science, Biology, or Chemistry are also encouraged to apply.