Engineering and Operations Student Intern

SAWPA • Riverside, CA

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority (SAWPA) is seeking an engineering student intern to gain practical experience supporting water infrastructure and operations. The intern will work alongside experienced professionals, develop technical and analytical skills, and contribute to regional water infrastructure projects. Applicants must be enrolled at an accredited educational institution in a degree program relevant to SAWPA's work and live within a reasonable commuting distance of SAWPA during the internship.

This is a paid, part-time, temporary internship that generally averages 20 hours per week, with schedules coordinated around academic commitments and Agency needs. Interns may work up to 960 hours per fiscal year and serve for up to 18 months unless additional terms are approved by the General Manager. Interns are generally expected to work on-site unless an alternative arrangement is approved. Compensation is at the current hourly minimum wage; effective January 1, 2027, the rate will be $17.40 per hour. SAWPA may coordinate with accredited colleges and universities to support internship credit requirements upon request.

The anticipated start date is the week of December 7, 2026. Applicants must submit a complete application, including a current resume and a brief cover letter describing their interest, what attracted them to SAWPA, and how their academic background, skills, or experiences align with the internship.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled at an accredited educational institution in undergraduate or graduate studies, pursuing a degree relevant to SAWPA's work.
• Major coursework in Engineering and Operations, such as civil engineering, environmental engineering, or a related field.
• Reside within a reasonable commuting distance of SAWPA during the internship.
• High school graduation or a G.E.D. equivalent.
• Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Excel and other technical software applications.
• Good written communication and organizational skills.
• Curiosity, adaptability, and willingness to learn new technical concepts.
• Ability to travel to work-related locations as required; reasonable alternative forms of transportation consistent with Agency policy may be used.
• A valid California Class C driver's license and an acceptable driving record are required for interns who operate a vehicle for Agency business.
• Submit a complete application, including a current resume and a brief cover letter.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of research, report preparation, and administration methods and techniques.
• Relevant coursework or academic projects.
• Prior professional engineering experience is not required.

Responsibilities

• Assist with preparing and reviewing technical reports, memorandums, and environmental documents.
• Assess utility plans, examine pipeline inspection video, manage data using spreadsheet tools, and create presentations.
• Compile data or materials, create spreadsheets, and prepare reports.
• Conduct research, contribute to projects, and complete administrative assignments.
• Support staff in developing Brine Line planning studies and condition assessments.
• Perform related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: High school or GED