Microbiology Intern

MWRD's Internship Program offers paid internship positions. While the main focus is on wastewater management, there are opportunities to gain knowledge and practical experience in a wide range of functions in each department.

Paid Interns

Paid interns are limited to 119 working days per calendar year and receive $18.00 per hour.

Required Documents:

• Letter of recommendation from a class instructor, professor, or Internship Coordinator from current school or university.
• Cover letter stating interest in position.
• Resume.

Eligibility Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a degree-seeking program in an accredited college or university and will be enrolled in the 2025/2026 school year.
• Permanent residency within the territorial boundaries of the MWRD (students may attend school outside the territorial boundaries).
• You must be a citizen or national of the United States, or an individual who is otherwise legally authorized to work in the United States.

Candidates are required to submit the Online Internship Application, cover letter, resume and letter of recommendation through MWRD’s Online Employment Center.

Questions regarding the internship program may be directed to MWRDInternships@mwrd.org.

Position Title:

Microbiology Intern

Department:

Monitoring and Research

Location:

Stickney Water Reclamation Plant 

6001 West Pershing Road

Cicero, IL60804

Description:

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District is seeking and Intern to serve in the microbiology section of the Monitoring and Research Department to develop a project in the areas of wastewater microscopy, analytical bacteriology, virology, parasitology, and/or assist with development of training modules in these areas.  The intern will rotate through each of the microbiology labs to gain experience in a variety of techniques used in wastewater microbiology.  The intern will also have the opportunity to complete a summer project. The intern will encounter wastewater, effluent, and waterways samples, as well as biosolids samples.  Safety and proper aseptic technique will be important components of this internship. The Intern will gain skills in counting bacterial colonies, recognizing wastewater biota using a microscope, using common lab equipment, and following standard operating procedures. 

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements:

• Proficient using Microsoft Word and Excel.
• 2 years of college majoring in microbiology, biology, environmental science, ecology or a related field with at least 1 course in biology with a lab component. 
• Excellent written and oral communication skills. 
• Interest in a career in wastewater.

Educational Requirements:

Applicants must be a current graduate or undergraduate student seeking a degree in microbiology, biology, environmental science, ecology.