Position Description
About Seattle Public Utilities
Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a Community Centered Utility whose mission is to foster healthy people, environment, and economy by partnering with our community to equitably manage water and waste resources for today and future generations. We deliver high quality, vital services across four major lines of business: providing water, solid waste, drainage, and wastewater services for Seattle residents and businesses. In addition, SPU provides drinking water for 1.5 million regional customers in Seattle and other municipalities.
Our customers depend on us to deliver high quality, reliable, and cost-conscious utility services and to achieve the highest benefits possible for every investment we make. SPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all, taking steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring, and promotional opportunities.
Job Responsibilities
As a Stormwater Program Community Engagement Intern, you will be on the front lines of environmental advocacy and public education. You will bridge the gap between technical source control efforts and community-driven pollution prevention, helping to foster a healthier urban environment.
Community Outreach & Public Engagement
• Public Representation: Participate in hands-on community outreach and public speaking engagements to promote stormwater pollution prevention.
• Tabling & Outreach Events: Transport and set up displays and engagement materials at various community sites and events.
• Event Coordination: Includes support for planning and logistics support.
• Engagement Strategy: Apply social science-based methods and audience research to effectively reach and engage diverse Seattle communities.
• Volunteer Support: Manage volunteer communications and provide tools and resources via our storage hub, could include staffing the facility once a week.
Communications & Creative Design
• Content Creation: Utilize design tools like Canva or Adobe Creative Suite to develop visually compelling materials for environmental engagement.
• Technical Communication: Translate complex concepts regarding urban stormwater and wastewater systems into accessible information for the public.
• Strategic Writing: Assist in drafting written communications that align with the City's Race and Social Justice Initiative (RSJI) to ensure equitable outreach.
Learning Objectives
Through this role, you will bridge the gap between academic theory and the practical application of environmental social science. By the conclusion of this term, you will have:
• Developed a comprehensive understanding of urban stormwater and wastewater systems and their impact on the local environment.
• Gained experience in public engagement and professional communication for municipal government.
• Achieved an understanding on how to apply community based social science principles and the tools used to foster sustainable behaviors that support community and environmental health.
• Built a foundation of experience in equity-centered outreach, applying Race and Social Justice Initiative principles to public service.
Qualifications
• Education: Open to students currently enrolled in an Undergraduate, Graduate, Community College, or Vocational/Technical program.
• Applicants must be enrolled at least part-time or full-time and maintain a 2.0 (Undergraduate) or 3.0 GPA (Graduate Student) for the duration of the internship.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Equity Commitment: A basic understanding of the Race and Social Justice Initiative (RSJI) and a commitment to equity.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office and design tools such as Canva or the Adobe Creative Suite.
• Field Requirements: Must possess a valid Driver’s License to transport outreach displays and materials by vehicle.
License/Certification:
• Current valid driver license from any state at time of application
• Candidates must obtain a Washington State driver license on or before the date of hire.
• Candidates must provide proof of driving record by submitting theirFull Abstract Driving Record as part of the application material.
• YourFull Abstract Driving Record must not be older than 30 days from the date of application submission.
• DO NOT submit the Employment Driver Abstract. Order a copy of yourFull Abstract Driving Record here.
Example of yourCORRECTAbstract of Driving Record - Full:
DO NOT submit the following abstracts:
• Abstract of Driving Record – Employment
• Abstract of Driving Record – Assessment
Examples of INCORRECT Abstracts:
Exception: Students are not required to be enrolled during summer sessions but must provide documentation of continued Fall enrollment at the end of the Spring quarter/semester.
Additional Information
• Hours: During school sessions, work hours will be 15–20 hours per week, scheduled to complement class schedules.
• Schedule: Work is typically performed Monday–Friday between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm, though some evening and weekend work is required for outreach events.
• Duration: This is a 12–18 month internship while the student is enrolled in school.
• Salary: The full salary range for this internship is $22.56 - $27.67 an hour.
• Primary Worksite: Seattle Municipal Tower (SMT).
How to Apply:
To be considered for this position, you must attach all of the following:
• Resume clearly identifying how you meet the qualifications.
• Cover Letter indicating your interest in this internship.
• Unofficial Transcript from your college/university.
• Full Drivers abstract
All 4 attachments (Resume, Cover Letter, Unofficial Transcript, and Full Drivers abstract) must be attached to your application to be considered a complete application.
Only complete applications will be considered.
Who may apply: The City of Seattle encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience. This position is open to all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
