Intern

Internship Opportunity

Montgomery County is looking for a student interested in cooperative education or internship opportunities to gain practical, hands-on experience in a professional work environment. Introductory level in the occupation under direct supervision of a professional. Performs varied assignments requiring a working knowledge of standard practices and techniques to assist higher-level professionals with projects and departmental operations. Specific duties vary depending on the department and academic discipline.

Summary of Job Duties

General:

• Relate and apply knowledge acquired in the academic setting to work activities
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives
• Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability as a team player with strong communication and organizational skills
• Assist in day-to-day supervised activities
• Participate in trainings, meetings, and orientation
• Comply with safety protocols, follow safety expectations, and wear appropriate PPE (Personal Protection Equipment)

If assigned to Field Services: Works closely with our Field Services staff on various projects related to water distribution and sewer collection systems. Introductory level in basic project management practices, data entry/analysis techniques under the direct supervision of Field Services management to perform a wide range of varied assignments to assist our planner/schedulers with coordinating work activities involved in maintaining the county water and sewer systems; accurately forecast resources and requirements for planned work activities and projects; maintain timelines of needed resources and projects. Will analyze trends and patterns, recommend appropriate action and initiate work orders as needed. Knowledge of software systems in a Windows or Mac environment including Word and Excel. Accurately enter data efficiently into spreadsheets, and into Computer Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) or Excel; create and write reports providing accurate and valid information; perform quality reviews of existing data; prepare and present technical reports; utilize computer applications to assist with analytical studies; utilize organizational skills with a high degree of accuracy; able to communicate effectively with the ability to work with minimal supervision; cooperate well with others in a group setting. Will use various types of equipment to assess condition of MCES assets such as, but not limited to acoustic inspection equipment, leak detection equipment, manhole inspection tools, utility locating equipment.

If assigned to the Solid Waste District: This internship is available for up to 20 hours/week for a duration of 10-12 weeks. Will assist with on and off-site recycling collection events; conducts and assists with the Environmental Learning Center tours, field assessments, and outreach events; conducts research and prepares materials, presentations, graphics, fact sheets, or reports for internal and external audiences; records data for assigned program areas and activities using established methodologies; supports projects related to waste diversion, recycling, and sustainability through research, analysis and project design and implementation assistance.

If assigned to USPMO/Engineering: Introductory level in the professional engineering occupation under the direct supervision of a professional engineer requiring working knowledge of relevant engineering standard practices and techniques in order to perform varied assignments to assist higher level engineers on a wide range of projects. Provides engineering assistance in the development and review of construction drawings or reports. May participate in field site visits to observe construction progress; may gather and evaluate asset data to support project planning activities. Areas of work may include design and construction of water mains or sanitary sewers, traffic control/roadway projects, environmental remediation/investigations, materials processing/handling systems, heavy equipment/vehicle maintenance facilities and environmental education facilities.

If assigned to Community & Economic Development: The Community and Economic Development Intern assists department staff with a variety of projects and administrative tasks that support county growth, development, and public service initiatives. The intern may work within any of the department's divisions, including Building Regulations, Community Development, Economic Development, and the Planning Commission. Responsibilities may include conducting research, gathering and analyzing data, assisting with project coordination, preparing reports and presentations, supporting public meetings and outreach efforts, maintaining records, and providing general administrative support. This position offers hands-on experience in local government operations, community planning, economic development strategies, and/or regulatory processes. (Performs Related Duties as Required)

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements

The ideal candidate is eager to learn, detail-oriented, and has strong communication skills. They will also possess excellent interpersonal skills and be able to work well with a team or independently. What sets you apart:

• Creative thinking and an ability to grasp and apply new information quickly
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Team player who thrives in collaborative environments and revels in team success
• Commitment to ongoing professional development

Field Services: Current and continuous full-time college enrollment, progressing to a Bachelor's or Post-graduate degree, in a Project Management focus, Environmental, or Engineering focus. Must demonstrate strong technical and critical thinking skill, and excellent communication skills.

Solid Waste District Interns: Proof of current and continuous full- or part-time college enrollment, progressing toward an Associate, Bachelor's, or post-graduate degree in an environmental, sustainability, natural resources, communications, or marketing-related discipline.

USPMO/Engineering Co-op Students: Proof of current and continuous full-time college enrollment, progressing toward a Bachelor's or post-graduate degree in an Engineering or Environmental Services major at an ABET-accredited institution. Candidates must demonstrate strong technical and problem-solving skills, excellent communication skills, and attention to detail.

Supplemental Information

Must maintain a current, valid United States driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

Benefits

This position is ineligible for Montgomery County Employer Benefits.