Engineering Sewer Utility Internship

Kitsap County

Poulsbo, WA

JOB DETAILS
SALARY
$24.22–$26.07 Per Hour
JOB TYPE
Intern, Full-time
SKILLS
Administrative Skills, Capital Project, Civil Engineering, Communication Skills, Construction Engineering, Construction Inspection, Cross-Functional, Data Analysis, Data Collection, Detail Oriented, Documentation, Engineering Drawing, Environmental Engineering, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Higher Education, Interpersonal Skills, Mechanical Engineering, Operations, Presentation/Verbal Skills, Public Works, Pumps, Quality Assurance Methodology, Smoke Testing, Spatial Data, System Operations, Systems Administration/Management, Systems Analysis, Technical Analysis, Technical Writing, Water Utility, Writing Skills
LOCATION
Poulsbo, WA
POSTED
7 days ago
Kitsap County Public Works is seeking an enthusiastic and driven intern to join our dynamic Sewer Utility Division (Central Kitsap Treatment Plant) and support our efforts in identifying and addressing challenges within the municipal sewer system. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the management of sewer systems while directly impacting the infrastructure of the community. You will be involved in a range of activities that provide real-world insights into how sewer systems are maintained, optimized, and improved.

This role offers an exceptional chance to develop skills in both fieldwork and data analysis, with a focus on infiltration and inflow (I/I) impacts on sewer capacity and the operational intricacies of managing a public utility. By participating in inspections, data collection, and field investigations, you’ll play a key part in supporting both engineering and operational staff while building your career in municipal infrastructure and environmental engineering.

As the Sewer Utility Intern, you will:
  • Analyze system maps, flow records, and GIS data to identify infrastructure concerns and support improvements.
  • Participate in field inspections of manholes, pump stations, and collection systems to detect and document sources of infiltration and inflow (I/I).
  • Assist with smoke testing and other techniques to locate unauthorized or improper sewer connections.
  • Review sewer service accounts and compare them with water utility data to identify discrepancies or unbilled connections.
  • Support data collection and analysis related to sewer system operations and capital projects.
  • Contribute to technical documentation including reports, drawings, and presentations for both internal teams and public review.
  • Participate in site visits and construction inspections of sewer infrastructure projects to gain field experience.
  • Collaborate with engineering, operations, and administrative teams to support the planning, design, and management of sewer systems.

This internship will:

  • Provide hands-on experience in field inspections, data collection, and infrastructure assessment.
  • Allow you to actively contribute to solving real-world challenges related to infiltration and inflow (I/I) in a municipal sewer system.
  • Offer exposure to the daily operations of a public utility, including engineering, construction, and administrative functions.
  • Help you develop technical skills in GIS, engineering drawings, and sewer system analysis.
  • Allow you to contribute to essential documentation and reporting that supports public infrastructure projects.
  • Offer professional development opportunities through collaboration with experienced staff in the public works and engineering fields.

What you bring: 
  • Educational Excellence: 
    • Currently enrolled as a sophomore, junior or senior in civil engineering, environmental engineering, mechanical engineering or a related field.
    • Post-graduate eligibility: 
      • Graduated within the last 6 months from a college or university with a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, mechanical engineering or related field OR 
      • Graduated and continued to a related higher education program. 
  • Communication/Interpersonal Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills to assist with documentation, reporting, and coordination across teams. Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
  • Technical Foundation: Basic understanding of engineering principles, especially as they relate to sewer systems and municipal infrastructure.
  • Attention to Detail: A keen eye for detail when reviewing sewer accounts, inspecting infrastructure, and analyzing technical documentation.
For more information about Kitsap County Public Works: https://www.kitsap.gov/pw

This internship does not include benefits.

About the Company

K

Kitsap County