Co-op / Intern

Montgomery County Environmental Services Internship

Montgomery County Environmental Services is looking for a student interested in a cooperative education or internship position working closely with our Environmental Services staff on various projects in Water, Sewer, Engineering, and Solid Waste. Introductory level in the occupation under direct supervision of a professional requiring working knowledge of relevant environmental standard practices and techniques, in order to perform varied assignments to assist higher level professionals on a wide range of projects across various departments in Field Services, Engineering, and Solid Waste, which includes environmental education, sustainability, materials management, marketing, communications and natural resources.

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. (Performs Related Duties as Required)

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements

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.

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.

Supplemental Information

Must maintain a current, valid United States driver's license with an acceptable driving record. Candidates assigned to Field Services must complete an online project management class.