Water Plant Intern at City of Cedar Rapids, IA

About the Department

Start your career in water treatment & environmental outreach! The City of Cedar Rapids is hiring a Water Plant Intern to support drinking water programs that protect public health and engage our community. This internship offers two focuses—Operations/Maintenance and Outreach & Education—with hands-on experience in water sampling, equipment support, community education, and conservation messaging. If you're motivated, detail-oriented, and pursuing a degree in water treatment, environmental science, communications, or a related field, apply today and make a meaningful impact in your community.

About our Organization

At the City, we are committed to employing individuals who reflect our community’s diverse backgrounds and this position is crucial in the success and strategic direction of a growing and evolving community. We appreciate and leverage the vast experience individuals bring beyond the technical requirements of a job. If you are an individual with similar experience listed here please consider applying. Experience and skills combined with commitment to our core values is key to building a greater community now and for the next generation. 

About our Community

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Cedar Rapids is our vibrant and diverse community known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Our city has a strong sense of community which can be seen at any of our numerous parks, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly events year round. You can also explore our thriving downtown district, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, or take a stroll along the Cedar River, which runs through the heart of the city. Cedar Rapids - Why you should live here!   

About this Opportunity 

Assists water plant staff with ongoing drinking water treatment programs for the City of Cedar Rapids, including educating the community about the importance of water treatment, conservation, and water quality. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in community engagement, environmental education, and water resource management within a vital public service organization.

The City of Cedar Rapids does not offer sponsorship for employment authorization.

Position Duties

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Operations/Maintenance Position

• Collects water samples from a variety of sample locations in the plant or distribution system and perform analysis on the samples.

• Reads and records data from recorders, gauges, computer console and various instrumentation.

• Assists staff in troubleshooting, inspection, and repair of pumps, valves, and other plant equipment.

• Records operational and/or field data and observations.

•  Analyzes data and trends to make recommendations for process efficiency
  

Outreach Position

• Develop and deliver engaging educational materials, presentations, and activities for diverse audiences, including schools, community groups, and the public, on topics such as the water treatment process, water conservation, and watershed protection.

• Assist in planning, organizing, and executing community outreach events.

• Help create and maintain digital and print communications, including social media content, website updates, brochures, and flyers, to promote water resource initiatives.

• Research and identify potential outreach opportunities, community partners, and best practices in water education and community engagement.

• Collect and analyze data related to outreach program effectiveness and community engagement efforts.

• Performs related work as required

Minimum Qualifications

Acceptable Experience and Training:

• High school diploma or GED; 1 to 2 years of study towards a degree in water or wastewater treatment, environmental science, communications, marketing, public relations, education or a related field.

• General knowledge of workplace safety practices.

• Ability to work under general supervision, receive and implement technical input and follow established work procedures.

• Ability to gather and interpret data.

• Strong interest in water resources, environmental protection, and community engagement.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex information clearly and engagingly to diverse audiences.

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Ingenuity and inventiveness in the performance of assigned tasks.

• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, which may include occasional evenings or weekends to support project needs.

Required Special Qualifications:

• Valid U.S. Driver’s License

Other Qualifications

Work Schedule

• Monday-Friday 7:00am to 3:00pm