Engineering Intern*
Key Skills for This Role
Full Job Posting
About the Department
The Water Utility is looking for qualified applicants for their Engineering Intern vacancy. This is entry-level professional engineering work for Madison Water Utility. The Engineering Internship is developed to advance agency goals and to foster professional development within the engineering career track, providing support and direction in an internship framework. This is a full-time, 8-month internship (co-op style placement) designed to provide meaningful experience and continuity. The internship will include exposure to managerial and policy-setting activities; an introduction to utility organizational structure; and an understanding of overall operations of the utility. This is an engineering design and construction position with work performed in the office and/or the field in connection with the design and construction of public works projects for Madison Water Utility. Assignments are received from Water Utility engineers who mentor the intern, define the scope of the work, guide the progress of the work, review the work in progress, and certify the results upon completion. The work is characterized by the application of theoretical engineering knowledge and expertise and the attainment of procedural knowledge through on-the-job training and experience. This position will work closely with colleagues and Utility technicians to learn processes and procedures necessary to develop a foundation from which to build expertise in public works design and construction. HOURS: 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday DURATION: Early January through Late August 2027 (8 months) WHAT WE DO Madison Water Utility delivers safe, high-quality water to more than 285,000 people across the Madison area. Our water comes from a deep aquifer beneath Madison and is pumped to the surface by wells across the city. We are entrusted by the people of Madison to supply high quality water for consumption and fire protection, at a reasonable cost, while conserving and protecting our water resources. Madison Water Utility’s water distribution system operates with: 22 groundwater wells that pump approximately 9 billion gallons per year 920 miles of water main 43 million gallons of water storage capacity 10 district pressure zones 71,160 customers served THE WATER UTILITY ENGINEERING SECTION The Engineering Section of Madison Water Utility provides planning, design, management and preservation of our system assets and water resources. Our team manages the design and construction of infrastructure improvements each year consisting of water main replacements, rehabilitation, system expansions, hydraulic improvements and distribution/storage facility projects. We collect and manage data pertaining to our infrastructure to map, monitor and continuously improve our system while objectively prioritizing capital improvements. We are also focused on community outreach and education. From facility tours, school demonstrations, water wagon events, open data provisions to a collaborative community advisory process for major projects, we are committed to showing our community how we can all help protect one of our most critical resources. UW MADISON COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING PARTNERSHIPS Madison Water Utility conducts research with the UW Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering on water quality, distribution system operation, pumping efficiency, and system modeling through an ongoing graduate student sponsorship program. Applications will be accepted until the closing date, however the selection process may begin prior to the closing date. Black, Indigenous, people of color, women, trans, nonbinary, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. We value the unique blend of lived experiences and diverse perspectives that comes from non-traditional education pathways and the variety of transferrable skills each candidate brings to the table. We value diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Even if every item on the job posting doesn’t match your experience perfectly, we encourage you to apply and share how your skills and experience can best serve our community.
The Water Utility is looking for qualified applicants for their Engineering Intern vacancy. This is entry-level professional engineering work for Madison Water Utility. The Engineering Internship is developed to advance agency goals and to foster professional development within the engineering career track, providing support and direction in an internship framework. This is a full-time, 8-month internship (co-op style placement) designed to provide meaningful experience and continuity. The internship will include exposure to managerial and policy-setting activities; an introduction to utility organizational structure; and an understanding of overall operations of the utility.
This is an engineering design and construction position with work performed in the office and/or the field in connection with the design and construction of public works projects for Madison Water Utility. Assignments are received from Water Utility engineers who mentor the intern, define the scope of the work, guide the progress of the work, review the work in progress, and certify the results upon completion. The work is characterized by the application of theoretical engineering knowledge and expertise and the attainment of procedural knowledge through on-the-job training and experience. This position will work closely with colleagues and Utility technicians to learn processes and procedures necessary to develop a foundation from which to build expertise in public works design and construction.
HOURS: 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday DURATION: Early January through Late August 2027 (8 months)
22 groundwater wells that pump approximately 9 billion gallons per year
920 miles of water main
43 million gallons of water storage capacity
10 district pressure zones
71,160 customers served
Position Duties
- Prepare engineering drawings and specifications for water utility projects as assigned by utility engineers. Using computer aided design software, develop designs for water pipeline projects, pump stations, reservoirs, pressure reducing stations, and other projects. Work closely with Utility engineers and technicians to learn and develop design skills and standards. Coordinate design activities with other Engineering Units, City agencies, and other entities as necessary. Prepare and evaluate project construction cost estimates. Develop project planning budgets, evaluate project feasibility, and complete life cycle cost analysis of proposed projects and improvements. Conduct basic engineering research as assigned and directed. Prepare spreadsheets, narrative and statistical reports, maps, and other materials as necessary. Gather and evaluate GPS field data as needed. Assist Utility Mapping group as needed to update and maintain utility records and update the Utility's GIS records as assigned. Assist with the inspection of public works construction as assigned. Inspect construction activities at all phases of water distribution system construction sites to ensure compliance with contract specifications, rules, regulations and standards. Study and interpret plan and profile drawings. Check materials delivered to the job site for compliance with the specifications. Record measurements to determine installed quantities. Prepare as-constructed record drawings. Maintain detailed construction records and notes. Review contract payment information. Assist with flushing operations. Turn valves as needed. Monitor pressure tests. Respond to questions from the public. Work with the Utility's distribution system hydraulic model. Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Using computer aided design software, develop designs for water pipeline projects, pump stations, reservoirs, pressure reducing stations, and other projects. Work closely with Utility engineers and technicians to learn and develop design skills and standards. Coordinate design activities with other Engineering Units, City agencies, and other entities as necessary. Prepare and evaluate project construction cost estimates. Develop project planning budgets, evaluate project feasibility, and complete life cycle cost analysis of proposed projects and improvements. Conduct basic engineering research as assigned and directed. Prepare spreadsheets, narrative and statistical reports, maps, and other materials as necessary. Gather and evaluate GPS field data as needed. Assist Utility Mapping group as needed to update and maintain utility records and update the Utility's GIS records as assigned. Assist with the inspection of public works construction as assigned. Inspect construction activities at all phases of water distribution system construction sites to ensure compliance with contract specifications, rules, regulations and standards. Study and interpret plan and profile drawings. Check materials delivered to the job site for compliance with the specifications. Record measurements to determine installed quantities. Prepare as-constructed record drawings. Maintain detailed construction records and notes. Review contract payment information. Assist with flushing operations. Turn valves as needed. Monitor pressure tests. Respond to questions from the public. Work with the Utility's distribution system hydraulic model. Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Work closely with Utility engineers and technicians to learn and develop design skills and standards. Coordinate design activities with other Engineering Units, City agencies, and other entities as necessary. Prepare and evaluate project construction cost estimates. Develop project planning budgets, evaluate project feasibility, and complete life cycle cost analysis of proposed projects and improvements. Conduct basic engineering research as assigned and directed. Prepare spreadsheets, narrative and statistical reports, maps, and other materials as necessary. Gather and evaluate GPS field data as needed. Assist Utility Mapping group as needed to update and maintain utility records and update the Utility's GIS records as assigned. Assist with the inspection of public works construction as assigned. Inspect construction activities at all phases of water distribution system construction sites to ensure compliance with contract specifications, rules, regulations and standards. Study and interpret plan and profile drawings. Check materials delivered to the job site for compliance with the specifications. Record measurements to determine installed quantities. Prepare as-constructed record drawings. Maintain detailed construction records and notes. Review contract payment information. Assist with flushing operations. Turn valves as needed. Monitor pressure tests. Respond to questions from the public. Work with the Utility's distribution system hydraulic model. Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Coordinate design activities with other Engineering Units, City agencies, and other entities as necessary. Prepare and evaluate project construction cost estimates. Develop project planning budgets, evaluate project feasibility, and complete life cycle cost analysis of proposed projects and improvements. Conduct basic engineering research as assigned and directed. Prepare spreadsheets, narrative and statistical reports, maps, and other materials as necessary. Gather and evaluate GPS field data as needed. Assist Utility Mapping group as needed to update and maintain utility records and update the Utility's GIS records as assigned. Assist with the inspection of public works construction as assigned. Inspect construction activities at all phases of water distribution system construction sites to ensure compliance with contract specifications, rules, regulations and standards. Study and interpret plan and profile drawings. Check materials delivered to the job site for compliance with the specifications. Record measurements to determine installed quantities. Prepare as-constructed record drawings. Maintain detailed construction records and notes. Review contract payment information. Assist with flushing operations. Turn valves as needed. Monitor pressure tests. Respond to questions from the public. Work with the Utility's distribution system hydraulic model. Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Prepare and evaluate project construction cost estimates. Develop project planning budgets, evaluate project feasibility, and complete life cycle cost analysis of proposed projects and improvements. Conduct basic engineering research as assigned and directed. Prepare spreadsheets, narrative and statistical reports, maps, and other materials as necessary. Gather and evaluate GPS field data as needed. Assist Utility Mapping group as needed to update and maintain utility records and update the Utility's GIS records as assigned. Assist with the inspection of public works construction as assigned. Inspect construction activities at all phases of water distribution system construction sites to ensure compliance with contract specifications, rules, regulations and standards. Study and interpret plan and profile drawings. Check materials delivered to the job site for compliance with the specifications. Record measurements to determine installed quantities. Prepare as-constructed record drawings. Maintain detailed construction records and notes. Review contract payment information. Assist with flushing operations. Turn valves as needed. Monitor pressure tests. Respond to questions from the public. Work with the Utility's distribution system hydraulic model. Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Develop project planning budgets, evaluate project feasibility, and complete life cycle cost analysis of proposed projects and improvements. Conduct basic engineering research as assigned and directed. Prepare spreadsheets, narrative and statistical reports, maps, and other materials as necessary. Gather and evaluate GPS field data as needed. Assist Utility Mapping group as needed to update and maintain utility records and update the Utility's GIS records as assigned. Assist with the inspection of public works construction as assigned. Inspect construction activities at all phases of water distribution system construction sites to ensure compliance with contract specifications, rules, regulations and standards. Study and interpret plan and profile drawings. Check materials delivered to the job site for compliance with the specifications. Record measurements to determine installed quantities. Prepare as-constructed record drawings. Maintain detailed construction records and notes. Review contract payment information. Assist with flushing operations. Turn valves as needed. Monitor pressure tests. Respond to questions from the public. Work with the Utility's distribution system hydraulic model. Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Conduct basic engineering research as assigned and directed. Prepare spreadsheets, narrative and statistical reports, maps, and other materials as necessary. Gather and evaluate GPS field data as needed. Assist Utility Mapping group as needed to update and maintain utility records and update the Utility's GIS records as assigned. Assist with the inspection of public works construction as assigned. Inspect construction activities at all phases of water distribution system construction sites to ensure compliance with contract specifications, rules, regulations and standards. Study and interpret plan and profile drawings. Check materials delivered to the job site for compliance with the specifications. Record measurements to determine installed quantities. Prepare as-constructed record drawings. Maintain detailed construction records and notes. Review contract payment information. Assist with flushing operations. Turn valves as needed. Monitor pressure tests. Respond to questions from the public. Work with the Utility's distribution system hydraulic model. Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Prepare spreadsheets, narrative and statistical reports, maps, and other materials as necessary. Gather and evaluate GPS field data as needed. Assist Utility Mapping group as needed to update and maintain utility records and update the Utility's GIS records as assigned. Assist with the inspection of public works construction as assigned. Inspect construction activities at all phases of water distribution system construction sites to ensure compliance with contract specifications, rules, regulations and standards. Study and interpret plan and profile drawings. Check materials delivered to the job site for compliance with the specifications. Record measurements to determine installed quantities. Prepare as-constructed record drawings. Maintain detailed construction records and notes. Review contract payment information. Assist with flushing operations. Turn valves as needed. Monitor pressure tests. Respond to questions from the public. Work with the Utility's distribution system hydraulic model. Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Assist Utility Mapping group as needed to update and maintain utility records and update the Utility's GIS records as assigned. Assist with the inspection of public works construction as assigned. Inspect construction activities at all phases of water distribution system construction sites to ensure compliance with contract specifications, rules, regulations and standards. Study and interpret plan and profile drawings. Check materials delivered to the job site for compliance with the specifications. Record measurements to determine installed quantities. Prepare as-constructed record drawings. Maintain detailed construction records and notes. Review contract payment information. Assist with flushing operations. Turn valves as needed. Monitor pressure tests. Respond to questions from the public. Work with the Utility's distribution system hydraulic model. Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Assist with the inspection of public works construction as assigned. Inspect construction activities at all phases of water distribution system construction sites to ensure compliance with contract specifications, rules, regulations and standards. Study and interpret plan and profile drawings. Check materials delivered to the job site for compliance with the specifications. Record measurements to determine installed quantities. Prepare as-constructed record drawings. Maintain detailed construction records and notes. Review contract payment information. Assist with flushing operations. Turn valves as needed. Monitor pressure tests. Respond to questions from the public. Work with the Utility's distribution system hydraulic model. Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Study and interpret plan and profile drawings. Check materials delivered to the job site for compliance with the specifications. Record measurements to determine installed quantities. Prepare as-constructed record drawings. Maintain detailed construction records and notes. Review contract payment information. Assist with flushing operations. Turn valves as needed. Monitor pressure tests. Respond to questions from the public. Work with the Utility's distribution system hydraulic model. Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Check materials delivered to the job site for compliance with the specifications. Record measurements to determine installed quantities. Prepare as-constructed record drawings. Maintain detailed construction records and notes. Review contract payment information. Assist with flushing operations. Turn valves as needed. Monitor pressure tests. Respond to questions from the public. Work with the Utility's distribution system hydraulic model. Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Prepare as-constructed record drawings. Maintain detailed construction records and notes. Review contract payment information. Assist with flushing operations. Turn valves as needed. Monitor pressure tests. Respond to questions from the public. Work with the Utility's distribution system hydraulic model. Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Assist with flushing operations. Turn valves as needed. Monitor pressure tests. Respond to questions from the public. Work with the Utility's distribution system hydraulic model. Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Monitor pressure tests. Respond to questions from the public. Work with the Utility's distribution system hydraulic model. Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Respond to questions from the public. Work with the Utility's distribution system hydraulic model. Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Work with the Utility's distribution system hydraulic model. Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Prepare system analysis under the direction of Utility engineers to investigate expansion or improvement to the system. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related work as required and assigned.
- Perform other related work as required and assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
- Currently enrolled and in good standing in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program in civil, environmental, or construction engineering, or a related engineering program. OR Currently enrolled and in good standing in an Associate degree civil engineering technology program. AND Completion of one (1) year of their Associate degree program by the start of the internship. OR Graduates in a related field since May 2025 will also be considered. The City of Madison strives to provide exceptional customer service to all its residents and visitors. Therefore, successful candidates will have demonstrated ability to work effectively with multicultural communities.
- Currently enrolled and in good standing in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program in civil, environmental, or construction engineering, or a related engineering program.
OR
Currently enrolled and in good standing in an Associate degree civil engineering technology program. AND
Completion of one (1) year of their Associate degree program by the start of the internship.
Graduates in a related field since May 2025 will also be considered.
The City of Madison strives to provide exceptional customer service to all its residents and visitors. Therefore, successful candidates will have demonstrated ability to work effectively with multicultural communities.
Other Qualifications
- Possession of a valid driver's license. Employee will be required to have safety (steel toe) boots; a reimbursement is available. Physical Requirements: Ability to sit at a desk and operate a computer workstation for extended periods of time. Ability to access construction sites. Ability to lift/carry objects weighing 30 pounds on a regular basis. Ability to walk over uneven surfaces. Ability to work outside under all weather conditions. *Payroll title for this position is Management Intern 2
- Possession of a valid driver's license.
- Employee will be required to have safety (steel toe) boots; a reimbursement is available. Physical Requirements: Ability to sit at a desk and operate a computer workstation for extended periods of time. Ability to access construction sites. Ability to lift/carry objects weighing 30 pounds on a regular basis. Ability to walk over uneven surfaces. Ability to work outside under all weather conditions. *Payroll title for this position is Management Intern 2
Benefits
- Hourly employees are eligible to earn sick leave and may qualify for other benefits depending on the number of hours worked. Please visit our website for more information.
Supplemental Questions
01
Currently enrolled and in good standing in a Civil, Environmental, Construction Management, Geological, Engineering program at an accredited college or University.
Currently enrolled and in good standing in an Associate degree civil engineering technology program.
Completion of one (1) year of your Associate degree program by the start of this internship.
Graduate since May 2025 in a related field.
None of the above
02
03
Reading, understanding, and enforcing technical specifications.
Reading and interpreting heavy construction plans
Working on a heavy construction site
Interpreting engineering or design drawing
Using laser level or drafting tools
04
Hydrology / Groundwater Resources / Hydroscience
Hydraulics / Fluid Mechanics
Soil Mechanics / Geotechnical Analysis
Environmental Engineering / Conservation
Water Treatment / Water Chemistry
Construction Management / Scheduling / Estimating
Energy Resources / Energy Efficiency and Conservation
CADD Design
Field Surveying
05
Microsoft Office Suite
Google Docs
CAD Software
Total Station or GPS
HydroCAD, WIN SLAMM, SWMM modeling software or other related modeling software
Land Surveying software (ex: Trimble, Topcon and Carlson)
ArcGIS
Required Question
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