Intern - Public Utilities, Part-time, Non-Benefited

The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) is seeking an engineering, environmental science, or technical science (chemistry, biology, microbiology, or equivalent) intern to conduct field, operations, and laboratory activities for the time period of May through end of August 2026. The preferred incumbent will have experience with recordkeeping and an aptitude for learning database-driven asset management systems. The Candidate must be able to complete technical tasks as assigned by their supervisor, be a self-starter with good time management skills, and maintain a positive attitude while learning the many aspects of the water and wastewater industry.

General Description:

This is a paraprofessional position. The incumbent performs routine tasks to learn and perform professional duties in an assigned department.

Organization:

The intern reports to the Department Head or a designated professional and supervises no staff.

Essential Functions:

• Assists supervisor to develop a learning / performance plan.
• Performs professional support tasks, such as compiling data and writing reports.
• Tracks information and provides analysis.
• Takes the lead on at least one department process or function.
• Provides written reports, documents observations, and interprets results.
• Performs related work as assigned.

Working Conditions:

A. Hazards

• Some assignments may include exposure to severe weather, dust, fumes, noise, vibrations, insects, as well as hot and cold temperatures. B. Environment
• Field and/or Office
• Field assignments require the ability to travel to site locations C. Physical Effort
• Some assignments may involve lifting of objects up to 15 pounds
• Some assignments may require walking and/or climbing.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Must be computer literate. Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets and databases, preferred. Ability to track data and compile information, required. Must be able to plan and manage projects in conjunction with supervisor. Must be able to maintain effective work relationships. Must be able to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Good decision-making skills, desired.

Education, Experience and Training:

High school diploma required with at least one (1) year of college with studies in a related field preferred. Any equivalent combination of education, experience and/or training sufficient to demonstrate the knowledge, skills and abilities is acceptable.

Special Conditions:

• Criminal Records Check, including fingerprinting
• Must obtain valid Commonwealth of Virginia Driver's License within 30 days of employment to be eligible to operate a county vehicle
• Twelve-month probationary period
• Other Special Conditions may apply depending on department/assignment