[Hiring] Intern - Water Use Efficiency @Municipal Water District of Orange County

Role Description

Under direct supervision, trains with members of the Water Resources team in the area of Water Use Efficiency and will have the opportunity to gain exposure in a wide range of water use efficiency activities. Will complete a variety of routine assignments and research in support of the Water Resources section’s goals and needs; and performs related duties as assigned.

The purpose of the intern program is to introduce students to the working environment within the field or profession they are studying and to enhance their educational development leading toward an undergrad or graduate program. This is a part-time position limited to working no greater than 19 hours per week during the fiscal year (July 1 to June 30). Hours are flexible depending upon department needs and intern’s school schedule. Periodic evening or weekend work hours may be required.

Essential Functions

• Provides ongoing assistance to the Water Resources team with the implementation of water use efficiency programs that assist retail water agencies and the public in increasing water efficiency, improving data quality, and complying with state regulations.
• Learns and applies an understanding of water use efficiency best management practices.
• Supports the team in facilitating water use efficiency programs, such as the Turf Replacement and Spray-to-Drip Rebate programs.
• Aids with projects related to water efficiency regulations, such as Making Conservation a California Way of Life, AB 1572, and SB 555.
• Performs research, coordinates data, and prepares clear and comprehensive reports; makes sound analyses and evaluations.
• Operates a variety of office equipment, tools, and devices including computers, phone, calculator, and related office equipment.
• Performs special assignments and other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of basic principles and methods of water use efficiency, water loss control, and administration are beneficial.
• Principles of climate-appropriate landscaping, efficient irrigation, ecology, statistical and research methodology, and/or survey techniques are useful, but not required.
• Correct English usage, including spelling, grammar and punctuation.
• Modern office procedures, methods, practices, and equipment including computers and applicable software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.

Requirements

• Understand and follow-through on assignments as directed by staff.
• Operate office equipment including computers and supporting word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications.
• Organize and exercise sound judgment within areas of responsibility.
• Prepare clear, accurate and concise records.
• Provide excellent customer service.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work including co-workers, outside agencies, and the public.

Education and Experience

• Graduation from high school or GED equivalent and must be enrolled as a college student.
• Enrollment in four-year college or graduate programs related to Geography, Environmental Studies, Water Resources, Public Policy, or related fields are highly desirable.

Supplemental Information

• All District employees are Disaster Service Workers by CA state law and are expected to participate in emergency response initiatives.
• This could include contributing to the emergency planning process, participating in disaster exercises and training, and potentially responding to support actual emergency events.

Working Conditions and Physical Activities

• Environment: Standard office setting. May be required to work extended hours including evenings and weekends; may be required to travel to attend meetings via car, bus, train, or air transportation.
• Physical: Primary functions require sufficient physical ability to work in an office setting; stand or sit for prolonged periods of time; operate standard and modern office equipment including use of a computer and keyboard, telephone, printers, calculators, copiers; push, pull, lift, and/or carry approximately 25 pounds; and communicate to exchange information.
• Vision: See in the normal visual range with or without correction.
• Hearing: Hear in the normal audio range with or without correction.